The country of fries, chocolate and beer... but also the center of Europe and the EU; Belgium has a lot to offer to its own residents, but also to expats who settle there temporarily. Discover everything you need to know about a move to Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent or another Belgian city as an expat family.
Moving to Belgium as an expat
Are you temporarily moving to Belgium for work? This can be for various reasons. For example, there may be a need for someone from the company in the department in Flanders, Brussels or Wallonia, or you may opt for a completely new challenge with a new employer. Regardless of the reason for your (temporary) move, it is a good idea to read up on Belgian customs before you start working in this new working environment.
Since Belgium is a EU country, it is relatively easy for residents of the European Union to get started. All you need to work in Belgium for a few months (maximum three) is your passport or identity card.
Apart from the practical aspect, there are some things to take into account as soon as you start a new job in Belgium. For example, most working environments tend to be more formal, and you should also know that Belgians are rather punctual compared to some other European countries.
Belgians attach great importance to teamwork, but there is also a hierarchy in the work culture. For example, there is often a division between managerial and executive functions and respect for colleagues of different functions is key.
If you decide to work in Belgium as an expat, the language could be a challenge. After all, Belgium is a trilingual country; Dutch, French and German are the three national languages, but fortunately English is also well established. English is particularly common in international working environments.
Living in Belgium as an expat can be a fascinating and enriching experience, but it also brings some challenges. We already talked about the multilingualism of society. Dutch is spoken in Flanders, French is spoken in Wallonia and in Brussels you will see a division between French and Dutch. Furthermore, German is common in the east of the country.
And not only the language is a challenge, but customs can also differ in Belgium. This obviously affects daily interactions, both private and professional.
Temporary housing in Belgium
Are you moving to Belgium soon? Then the challenge is not only to discover a new country with its own culture and customs, but also to find temporary housing for yourself and your family.
Fortunately, there are many options in Belgium when you are looking for a housing solution, especially in urban areas. For example, houses and apartments regularly come onto the rental market or you can choose to rent a furnished home, so that you no longer have to think about the furnishings of your temporary accommodation.
A final option is to buy a house or apartment, but this is of course not the best option if you are only going to stay in Belgium for a shorter period.
Turn your temporary house into a home
Have you come across the ideal apartment to live in as an expat? Or do you find a home to rent for a short period, ideal for an expat family? Then the first step has been taken. Yet it is important to turn your temporary house into a real home. You can do this by having your own furniture delivered or, if that is too expensive or requires too much effort, you can opt to rent all the furniture in Belgium. After all, renting furniture in Belgium is possible for a short or long term.
Renting furniture as an expat in Belgium
Renting furniture as an expat allows you to choose a house or an apartment that fits your budget and requirements, without having to take furnishments in account at that point.
In short, furniture renting has tons of advantages for fulfilling a temporary need.
- It offers flexibility for both short and long term
- Furniture packages are available in different styles. Also electrical devices are rentable. This way, you will not have to buy any of these essentials.
- Thanks to furniture rental you can enjoy high-quality products in a sustainable way.
- It allows you to focus on your new professional challenge in Germany, without spending time and money on furniture, decoration and electrical devices.
At In-Lease, we help expats in Belgium feel at home with furniture packages and appliances for rent on the short and the long term. Our furniture is available in different styles and will be delivered in your new home at the agreed date and time.
Discover our rental plans
Healthcare
As an expat in Belgium, understanding the healthcare system is essential for a smooth transition. For example, Belgium has mandatory health insurance for all residents, including expats. Most employees are automatically registered with a health insurance fund that covers a large part of their medical costs. In addition to the mandatory health insurance fund, many have additional insurance for additional costs, such as certain medications, dental care and other health services.
Finances
As an expat in Belgium, managing your finances is an important aspect of a smooth transition. To establish yourself, you must open a Belgian bank account. This can often be done in person at the bank branch or online. Make sure you have all required documents, such as a valid ID and residence permit, at hand. There are current accounts for daily transactions or savings accounts for interest income. Belgium makes extensive use of electronic payment methods. Make sure you are familiar with payment cards and mobile payment apps.
Daily life
As an expat in Belgium you are part of a country full of diversity and culture. Belgium is known for its multilingual character. And the food is also very diverse. Try local specialties such as waffles, chocolate, fries and of course the diverse range of beers. Furthermore, Belgium has a well-developed public transport system. Trains, trams and buses connect cities and towns, making it easy to explore the country.
Expat life with kids
Moving to a new country can be both exciting and challenging with children. Inform yourself thoroughly about the Belgian education system. Discover nearby schools or find childcare if you have young children. As soon as you arrive in Belgium, register yourself and your family with the local municipality. This is mandatory.
Hello Belgium
Life as an expat in Belgium can be challenging at first, but by properly preparing yourself and your family for the upcoming move, you ensure that you are quickly integrated and that you can enjoy the culture that Belgium has to offer.
Are you still looking for temporary housing or a partner to furnish your new home? Welcome at In-Lease for short- or long-term furniture rental.
