Belgium scores well on the main indicators in the OECD Better Life Index. It ranks above average on income, wealth, wellbeing, civic engagement, employment, housing, and personal security among others. The overall cost of living is around 11% higher on average than in the UK, but rent prices are around 14% cheaper.
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What is living in Belgium like?
Belgium is a very family-friendly country to live in. It has good educational, healthcare, and cultural facilities in all the main cities. Belgium is generally quite a safe place to live. Brussels has many municipalities popular with young families and the city has some of the best international schools.
Is it expensive to live in Belgium?
Family of four estimated monthly costs are 3,237$ (2,860€) without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 908$ (802€) without rent. Cost of living in Belgium is, on average, 3.38% higher than in United States. Rent in Belgium is, on average, 38.99% lower than in United States.
Can foreigners live in Belgium?
To come to Belgium as a foreigner you must be able to present certain identity and residence documents. Otherwise, you will be unable to gain access to Belgian territory. For EU citizens, the identity card or a passport is generally sufficient. Foreigners with another nationality may need a visa.
Is it safe to live in Belgium?
Yes, Belgium is a very safe country to live in and Belgium is also safe to visit. Crime rates are low and it’s unlikely that anything will happen to you when visiting Belgium. However, just as everywhere else in the world, you should be vigilant for petty theft and pickpockets.
Can I speak English in Belgium?
In Belgium you can speak any language you want. For contacts with the authorities three official languages can be used: Dutch, French and German. These languages are not spoken everywhere, because Belgium is subdivided into federated states. Each federated state has its own official language.
Is moving to Belgium a good idea?
High living standards and excellent public facilities are two of the things that have made Belgium a popular destination for expats. It also has many top attractions, a friendly and diverse culture, and is the home of multiple European Union (EU) institutions.
Is healthcare in Belgium free?
Studying in Belgium
This means that you’ll get necessary healthcare services on the same basis as an Belgium citizen either for free or at a reduced cost.
Is it easy to find a job in Belgium?
Many foreigners easily find work in Belgium and chances of finding jobs in Belgium’s main cities, particularly jobs in Brussels, are increased by the extensive international business scene and European Union (EU) presence.
How much does a house cost in Belgium?
In 2021, a house in Belgium would cost approximately 281,700 euros.
Average price of a house in Belgium from 2013 to 2021 (in euros)
| Characteristic | Average price in euros |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 262,196 |
| 2018 | 251,584 |
| 2017 | 240,451 |
| 2016 | 234,541 |
Can I move to Belgium without a job?
If you are an EU citizen then you can work in Belgium without a visa or work permit. Citizens of Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein or Iceland do not need work permits but they will need to register if they stay for more than 90 days.
What is F+ card in Belgium?
What is F and F+ Card? The F Card (Appendix 9) is issued to family members of third-country nationals in Belgium based on the right to family reunification with a Belgian or EU citizen after the approval of their residence application. The F Card is valid for five years.
At what age can you retire in Belgium today?
65
The retirement age in Belgium is generally 65 or 60 if you have spent 35 years in full-time work. You can take early retirement in some circumstances. Pensions are governed by federal laws. The central administration of the ‘Service fédéral des Pensions’ provides full information on pensions.
Does Belgium get snow?
When Does it Snow in Belgium?January through April and November are months with small amounts of snowfall. The temperature starts to drop rapidly from October. The following months (winter months from December to February) are chilly and wet, with massive snowfalls covering most parts of Belgium and Europe.
How do you say hello in Belgium?
Most people in Belgium speak French, with a small portion of the Belgian population speaking Dutch (Flemish).
Belgian Phrases.
| Hello: Salut | Pronounced: Sal oo |
|---|---|
| Goodbye: Au revoir | Pronounced: Oh ruh vwar |
| Good Evening: Bonsoir | Pronounced: Bon swar |
Is it hard to move to Belgium?
Paperwork mountains, unfriendly locals (in the touristy areas) and horrendous taxes. Moving to Belgium isn’t easy and living in Brussels is especially tough for newcomers. Here are a few tips which hopefully will make your transition smoother than mine.
What race is Belgium?
Demographics of Belgium
| Demographics of the Kingdom of Belgium | |
|---|---|
| Nationality | noun: Belgian(s) adjective: Belgian |
| Major ethnic | 58% Flemish |
| Minor ethnic | 31% Walloon, 11% Mixed/Other |
| Language |
What religion is in Belgium?
Roman Catholic
Religion. The majority of Belgians are Roman Catholic, but regular attendance at religious services is variable. Although it is marked in the Flemish region and the Ardennes, regular attendance at church has decreased in the Walloon industrial region and in Brussels, and nearly one-third of Belgians are nonreligious.
What is the most popular food in Belgium?
Top 10 Belgium Food to satiate your taste buds
- Belgian Fries. Image Source.
- Moules-Frites. Image Source.
- Stoemp. Image Source.
- Grey shrimp Croquettes. Image Source.
- Speculaas. Image Source.
- Waterzooi. Image Source.
- Belgian Waffles. Image Source.
- Tomates aux Crevettes Grises. Image Source.
What is winter like in Belgium?
Winters are damp and cool with frequent fogs; summers are rather mild. The annual mean temperature is around 50 °F (10 °C). Brussels, which is roughly in the middle of the country, has a mean minimum temperature of just below 32 °F (0 °C) in January and a mean maximum of about 71 °F (22 °C) in July.
What should I know before moving to Belgium?
10 Things To Know Before Moving to Belgium
- English Isn’t as Widely Spoken as You Might Think.
- Don’t Get the Language Wrong.
- Two for the Price of One.
- The Beer Packs a Punch.
- Pack Your Umbrella.
- Flowers are Important.
- Make Sure You Finish Your Plate.
- Get Those Cheeks Moisturized.
