Moving to Belgium

"Be open-minded, make an effort, don't assume everything (or anything or anyone) will be as you've known before. Things WILL be more difficult; but you will be a better - bigger? broader? more understanding? tolerant? appreciative? - person as a result. As for Brussels: It's a very easy community to move into and live in (even without knowing the languages), as most people are from elsewhere in the world. I've found Belgians that work in international companies are also very open. Friendships are made quickly and easily. I will truly miss my life here when I return," said one expat in Brussels.

"Expats should be aware that Belgium is a multilingual country, with Dutch, French, and German being the three official languages. It is important to learn at least one of these languages before moving to Belgium. Expats should also be aware that Belgium has a high cost of living, so it is important to budget accordingly. Additionally, Belgium has a complex tax system, so it is important to research the tax laws before moving. Finally, expats should be aware that Belgium has a strong cultural identity, so it is important to respect local customs and traditions," remarked one expat who made the move to Belgium.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Belgium is to use online resources such as websites and apps. Websites such as Immoweb, Immovlan, and Logic-Immo are popular in Belgium and offer a wide range of rental properties. Additionally, there are many Facebook groups dedicated to helping people find housing in Belgium. You can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a place to live. Additionally, you can look for rental postings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in supermarkets and other public places," remarked one expat in Belgium.

"I visited estate agents and one of them introduced me to my gorgeous furnished flat. It's difficult to find furnished properties for rent in Bruges. They're mostly unfurnished. I paid the commission and administrative charges happily. The rent is ludicrously cheap," said one expat in Bruges.

"I live in a rented studio. I'm not sure about where or in what type of housing other expats are living," said one expat who made the move to Bruges.

"Expat homes and apartments in Belgium tend to be modern and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and open spaces. Many expats choose to live in the city center, where they can enjoy easy access to public transportation, restaurants, and other amenities. Expat apartments often come with modern appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, as well as high-speed internet. Expats may also find that their apartments come with balconies or terraces, providing a great place to relax and enjoy the views," explained one expat living in Belgium.

"The average cost of housing in Belgium is generally quite high, with prices varying depending on the location and type of property. In the larger cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent, the cost of housing is typically higher than in smaller towns and rural areas. Renting a property in Belgium can be expensive, with prices ranging from around €500 to €1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Buying a property in Belgium can also be costly, with the average price of a house in the country estimated to be around €250,000," explained one expat living in Belgium.

"Housing costs: rental, lower; water, sewer, heating, higher; buying a home, higher," said one expat in Bruges.

"Buying a home in Belgium can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and real estate market. However, it is important to consider the cost of buying a home in Belgium, as well as the cost of living in the area. Renting a home in Belgium can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to live in the area without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting a home in Belgium can give you the flexibility to move to a different area if needed. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Belgium should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," commented one expat who made the move to Belgium.

"When moving to Belgium, it is important to pack items that will help you feel comfortable in your new home. Consider bringing clothing for all seasons, as the weather in Belgium can vary greatly. It is also a good idea to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and any other important paperwork. Additionally, it is wise to bring any necessary electronics, such as a laptop, phone, and charger. Finally, don't forget to bring any items that will help you feel at home, such as photos, books, and other personal items," said one expat who made the move to Belgium.

"Wished had brought: stronger sense-of-esteem, outlet (higher quality) shopping, old beloved Volvo Wished had left home: nothing," explained one expat living in Bruges, Belgium.

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Belgium. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or social engagements. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as Belgians tend to dress more formally than in other countries. It is also important to be aware of the local language, as many Belgians speak both French and Dutch. It is considered impolite to speak loudly in public places, and it is important to be aware of the local etiquette when dining out. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, and to respect them," commented one expat who made the move to Belgium.

"Brussels is a pleasant city, calm and easy to reach for everything, whether it is sports clubs, the city center or for simple shopping. Brussels is an international city where everyone feels at home," commented one expat who moved to Brussels.

"Belgium is a prosperous and culturally diverse country with a high standard of living, making it an attractive destination for expats. Its vibrant cities, picturesque countryside, and excellent healthcare system are other benefits for those considering relocation to Belgium. Additionally, Belgium has a vibrant job market and boasts a strong economy, offering plenty of opportunities for individuals looking for a new start. This, coupled with the country’s excellent transport links, makes Belgium an attractive choice for many expats. Furthermore, Belgium has a rich and diverse culture with numerous activities, festivals, and attractions that make it an ideal place to experience a new culture or lifestyle," said one expat.

"Belgium offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. The public healthcare system in Belgium is funded by the government and is generally of high quality. Foreign residents are eligible to use the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Expats in Belgium can use the public healthcare system by registering with their local commune and obtaining a Belgian health insurance card. This card allows them to access the same healthcare services as Belgian citizens, including free or discounted care," wrote one expat living in Belgium.

"Belgium has a well-developed healthcare system that provides high-quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a wide range of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. Belgium also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. In addition, Belgium has a number of medical research centers that are dedicated to researching and developing new treatments and therapies," wrote one expat living in Belgium.