10 Tips for Migrants and Expats Living in Belgium

Belgium is a welcoming country with a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you're moving for work, studies, or a better lifestyle, adapting to life in Belgium can be challenging. Managing finances, understanding the cost of living, and staying connected with loved ones back home are crucial aspects of settling in. Using reliable services to send money online can help expatriates support their families while ensuring secure and hassle-free transactions. This guide provides ten essential tips to help migrants and expats navigate life in Belgium efficiently.

1. Understand Belgium's Multilingual Culture

Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. The language spoken varies by region.

• Flanders (North) – Dutch
• Wallonia (South) – French
• Brussels (Capital) – Bilingual (Dutch and French)
• Eastern Cantons – German

Learning the local language of your region will help you integrate better into society and enhance job opportunities.

2. Secure Your Residency and Work Permits

If you're from an EU/EEA country, you don’t need a visa to live and work in Belgium. However, non-EU citizens must:

• Apply for a long-term visa.
• Register at the local town hall within eight days of arrival.
• Obtain a residence permit (A-card or B-card) for work or study.

Consult Belgium’s Immigration Office to stay updated on policies and requirements.

3. Open a Belgian Bank Account

A local bank account is necessary for receiving salaries and paying bills. Major banks include:

• KBC Bank
• BNP Paribas Fortis
• ING Belgium

You’ll need:

• Passport/ID
• Proof of address
• Residence permit

Having a Belgian account also allows you to securely and at competitive exchange rates make online money transfers from Belgium to your home country.

4. Choose the Best Remittance Service

Sending money back home is essential for many expats. Using reliable money transfer services from Belgium to your home country ensures:

• Secure transactions with encryption.
• Competitive exchange rates compared to traditional banks.
• Low transfer fees for online transactions.

Platforms like ACE Money Transfer provide quick and safe ways to make an online money transfer at affordable rates.

5. Understand Belgium’s Cost of Living

Belgium is relatively affordable compared to other Western European nations. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses:

• Rent: €800–€1,500 (Brussels is more expensive)
• Groceries: €200–€400 per month
• Public transport: €49/month for a transport pass
• Healthcare: €50–€100/month (insurance required)

To save money, shop at local markets, use public transport, and avoid tourist hotspots.

6. Adapt to the Public Transport System

Belgium has an efficient public transport system, including trains, trams, and buses. The key providers are:

• SNCB/NMBS: National train service
• STIB/MIVB: Brussels metro, trams, and buses
• De Lijn & TEC: Regional bus services

A monthly pass can significantly cut travel costs.

7. Access Healthcare and Social Security

Belgium has a mandatory health insurance system. To access healthcare services, you must:

• Register with a mutuelle/mutualité (health insurance provider).
• Pay social security contributions if employed.
• Choose between state-funded insurance and private health plans based on your needs.

For expatriates, understanding the healthcare system is essential to ensuring proper medical coverage while living in Belgium. Managing finances efficiently, including budgeting for healthcare costs, is equally important. Additionally, expats who want to make a money transfer to support family members abroad should choose reliable remittance services that offer secure and cost-effective transactions.

8. Get Familiar with Belgium’s Tax System

Belgium has high income tax rates, ranging from 25% to 50%. As an expat, ensure:

• You register with the Federal Public Service Finance.
• Your employer deducts tax from your salary.
• You check if you qualify for tax deductions and expat benefits.

9. Explore Belgium’s Expat Communities

Building a social network is crucial for a smooth transition. Join expat groups such as:

• Internations Belgium: Networking and Events.
• Meetup Brussels & Antwerp: social and professional networking.
• Facebook groups for expats in your city.

10. Enjoy Belgian Culture and Lifestyle

Belgium is famous for its beer, chocolates, and festivals. Explore:

• Brussels Grand Place & Atomium
• Bruges & Ghent’s historic sites
• Tomorrowland & Carnival of Binche

Belgium Made Easy: Residency, Finances & Global Transfers

Living in Belgium as an expat can be a rewarding and enriching experience, provided you make the necessary preparations. Understanding residency rules is crucial, as it determines your legal status, work eligibility, and access to essential healthcare and social security services. Ensuring all necessary documentation, including residence permits and work visas, will help avoid any administrative hurdles.

Additionally, managing finances wisely is key to maintaining financial stability in a new country. Setting a budget, keeping track of expenses, and taking advantage of tax benefits or financial assistance programs can make a significant difference. For supporting family members back home, using reliable global money transfer services from Belgium ensures that funds reach their destination safely and efficiently.

FAQs

How can I securely send money from Belgium to my home country?

You can send money online from Belgium using ACE Money Transfer, which offers secure transactions, competitive exchange rates, and low fees.

Is Belgium expensive for expats?

Belgium has a moderate cost of living, with housing and healthcare being the major expenses. Proper budgeting can help manage finances effectively.

Do I need to learn French or Dutch to live in Belgium?

While many Belgians speak English, learning French or Dutch is beneficial for job opportunities and daily interactions.

What are the best money transfer options in Belgium?

Services like ACE Money Transfer provide fast and affordable online money transfers from Belgium to various countries worldwide.

How long does it take to open a bank account in Belgium?

Opening a bank account typically takes 1-2 days if all required documents are provided. Some banks also offer online account setup.

By following these tips, expats in Belgium can lead a more comfortable and financially stable life while staying connected to their home country.