Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Moving to Belgium is stepping into a country small in size but immense in complexity… and in quality of life. With a dynamic job market, generous social security, a top-tier healthcare system, and a genuine culture of welcome, the country already attracts over 1.6 million foreigners, representing about 13% of the population. But this appeal has a downside: intricate administrative procedures, heavy taxation, a bewildering institutional system, and three official languages to master.
Good to know:
This practical guide provides all the essential information for preparing your move to Belgium: administrative procedures (visas and residence permits), taxation, housing search, healthcare system, schooling, cost of living, opening a bank account, and language aspects. It helps you anticipate the steps and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Understanding Belgium Before You Unpack
Belgium is both a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, and is located at the crossroads of France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Luxembourg. Its capital, Brussels, hosts the main institutions of the EU and NATO, which explains the presence of very large international communities, especially in the European districts.
11.5
Belgium has approximately 11.5 million inhabitants, a population evolving within a unique institutional framework in Europe.
Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels: Three Realities in One Country
For an expat, understanding the institutional geography is crucial, because many rules (housing, social benefits, regional taxation, family allowances) are decided at the level of the Regions and Communities.
| Region / Community | Main Language | Specifics for an Expat |
|---|---|---|
| Flanders | Dutch | Dynamic job market, cost of housing often lower than in Brussels, strong language requirement for Dutch. |
| Wallonia | French | Generally more affordable housing, specific housing assistance, less language pressure for French. |
| Brussels-Capital Region | French & Dutch (bilingual) | Very high presence of expats, majority of French speakers but a lot of English, higher rents, services widely available in several languages. |
| German-speaking Community (east of Wallonia) | German | Small region, but identical rights (school, social security), more rural atmosphere. |
Brussels is officially bilingual (French/Dutch), but in practice, almost all inhabitants speak French and a large portion is proficient in English, especially within European and international circles.
Visas, Residence Permits and Initial Setup
Before even looking for housing or a school, you must clarify your entry status: are you a citizen of the EU/EEA/Switzerland, do you benefit from a short-stay visa exemption, or are you a ‘third-country national’ (outside EU/EEA/Switzerland)?
Short Stay or Long-Term Move?
The basic rule depends on the planned duration of your stay and your nationality:
– EU/EEA/Swiss/Monaco Nationals
No visa required to enter or to work, but obligation to register at the municipality if you stay more than 90 days.
– Nationals of Schengen visa-exempt countries (United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, etc.)
Visa-free stays possible for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, certain business trips, or family visits. For longer stays, a long-stay visa is required.
– Nationals of visa-required countries (e.g., India, China)
Visa required even for a short stay.
For any stay exceeding 90 days (work, studies, family reunification, retirement), non-EU/EEA nationals must apply for a long-stay Type D visa before arrival.
Main Types of Visas and Residence Permits
Even though terminology may evolve, the general framework is relatively stable.
Visa and Permit Types for Belgium
Overview of the main residence permits and work authorizations for non-EU/EEA nationals wishing to stay in Belgium.
Schengen Type C Visa
Short stay (up to 90 days within 180) for tourism, business, family visits, short study periods, or medical reasons.
National Type D Visa
Long stay (over 90 days) for salaried work, higher education, family reunification, retirement stay, or au pair stay.
Work Permit / Single Permit
Combined permit (residence + work) for stays over 90 days. The application is generally submitted by the employer.
Professional Card
Mandatory for practicing a self-employed activity as a non-EU/EEA national.
European Blue Card
Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
