Your life in Belgium starts here
Make your move to Belgium
At the heart of Western Europe, Belgium puts Brussels, Antwerp and the wider continent within easy reach. Strong healthcare, widely spoken English and a clear path to citizenship make it a natural base.
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Photo: Dany Isenguerre / Pexels
At a glance
Belgium, in brief.
How Belgium compares with the 80+ destinations we cover. Belgium ranks among the best for healthcare (17th of 78) and english-friendliness (22nd of 81) and visa ease (28th of 81).
Compare destinations- Cost of living
- High
- Property
- Moderate
- Healthcare
- Strong
- Safety
- Safe
- Climate
- Cool (~11°C)
- English
- Very widely spoken
- Expat community
- Established
No retiree visa, 5yr PR and citizenship, dual
Worldwide, 50% top rate, inbound regime
Life in Belgium
I am Sam Jenkinson. I am a PhD student, studying demography at the university of Leuven, Belgium. I am 31 years old and from Hull in the UK.…
Health insurance in Belgium
Covered from day one.
The dream is the easy part. Compare tailored expat health insurance quotes from trusted international insurers, in minutes and with no obligation.
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Your move plan
Belgium, one step at a time.
Thirteen steps, in the order most people tackle them. Each one links to the guide that walks you through it.
- 01Check which visa fits your moveRead the guide : Check which visa fits your move
- 02Work out your monthly budgetRead the guide : Work out your monthly budget
- 03Arrange health cover for your moveRead the guide : Arrange health cover for your move
- 04Understand how the health system worksRead the guide : Understand how the health system works
- 05Bring your pet, if you have oneRead the guide : Bring your pet, if you have one
- 06Find somewhere to rentRead the guide : Find somewhere to rent
- 07Open a local bank accountRead the guide : Open a local bank account
- 08Know your residency steps after you arriveRead the guide : Know your residency steps after you arrive
- 09Find a doctorRead the guide : Find a doctor
- 10Understand your tax positionRead the guide : Understand your tax position
- 11Sort out your driving licenceRead the guide : Sort out your driving licence
- 12Set up a phone and internetRead the guide : Set up a phone and internet
- 13Plan schools, if you're moving with childrenRead the guide : Plan schools, if you're moving with children
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Plan your move
Answers for your move.
Free tools that turn big questions about Belgium into clear answers.
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- Compare cost of livingWhat your money is worth in Belgium.01
- Check retirement affordabilityWhere your pension clears the requirement.02
- Find visa optionsEvery route you could qualify for.03
- Get moving quotesUp to five free quotes from international movers.04
- Move money abroadTransfers with a currency specialist.05
The complete picture
The Belgium moving guide.
54 guides, from your visa to finding a vet. Start with the three most people need first.
Moving guide sponsored by- Start here · 01
Visas
Which visa fits your move, and how to apply.
- Start here · 02
Residency
Your residence permit, from first stay to long term.
- Start here · 03
Banking
Opening an account and moving money.
Visas, residency and work
6
Healthcare
7
Buying property
5
Health and wellbeing
8
Travel and transport
5
Driving and cars
5
You won't be the first
Real people who made the move.
People who built a life in Belgium share what surprised them, what helped and what they'd do again. All Belgium stories
- Ghent
Rebecca Bramlett
I am Rebecca Bramlett, an American living in Belgium.Prior to my move abroad, I worked in higher education as a fundraiser and…
Ana Elisa Miranda
My name is Ana Elisa, I’m from Brazil and I’m a teacher. I taught English as a Second Language before I moved…
- Antwerp
Jessica Knopp
My name is Jessica and I am a twenty six year old freelance writer and photographer living in Antwerp. I am originally…
Fresh from Belgium
Latest articles.
Green Living in Belgium: An Expat’s Guide
Belgium, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and high quality of life, is also a country that places a significant emphasis on sustainability…
How To Open A Bank Account In Belgium
Serving as the main seat of the European Parliament, Belgium has more to offer than just delicious waffles, which is perhaps why so many…
How To Apply For A Visa In Belgium
If you wish to travel to Belgium, you will need a passport that is valid for at least three months after your intended departure…
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