{"type":"document","data":{"id":"7a378fbd-23cb-48d8-b74a-e34530cb5ef0","localeString":"en-GB","publishDate":"2024-07-12T16:44:19.694+02:00","contentType":"onecms:editorialPage","hasMacro":false,"flexPageMetadata":{"afmBanner":false,"robotInstruction":{"noIndex":false,"noFollow":false},"description":"From the formalities to the local lifestyle and setting up banking facilities as a Dutch citizen, this practical guide has all the answers to your questions on becoming an expat in Belgium!"},"mainHeaderZone":{"componentType":"editorialHeader","coreHeader":{"title":"Expat Belgium: how to move to Belgium from the Netherlands","subtitle":"Many people move to Belgium from the Netherlands as this is facilitated by shared border, a common language and the close economic ties between the two countries.","body":"Here is our practical guide on living in Belgium and how to move to Belgium!"},"backLink":{"textLink":{"url":"/en/individuals/daily-banking","text":"Daily Banking"}},"date":"2024-07-11","readingTime":3},"flexZone":{"flexComponents":[{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"What preparations do you need to make when moving to Belgium from the Netherlands?"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"

An international move requires preparation. Here are some things you should put on your checklist to prepare for your expatriation:

  1. Administrative formalities: As a citizen of the European Union, you do not need a visa to settle in Belgium. However, you will need ID documents in order.
  2. Finding accommodation: Social networks or temporary accommodation platforms offer many solutions whether you decide to lodge in digs or opt for a temporary rental.  In all cases, make sure you understand all the terms of the rental contract and the rights of tenants in Belgium.
  3. Transfer your services and subscriptions: Before leaving the Netherlands, remember to cancel your subscriptions (electricity, gas, internet) and transfer them to your new address in Belgium. It is best to contact service providers well in advance to avoid any interruption in services.
  4. Choose a moving company: Compare quotes to select the international moving company that’s right for you.
"}},{"componentType":"highlight","title":"Good to know!","richBody":{"value":"

In Belgium, you can opt for a short-term contract (less than 1 year or up to 3 years in certain regions ) or a long-term lease (between 3 and 9 years). Be aware that the legislation in this area depends on each region, which means that the rules are not the same depending on whether you reside in Flanders, Brussels or Wallonia. It is likely, in certain circumstances, that you will have to pay early termination penalties if you leave before the end of the lease (even when giving the required notice!). Consider your options carefully as you may have to pay the equivalent of 3 months’ rent if you leave the rental early.  Read and negotiate the contract carefully beforehand to avoid these pitfalls.

"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"What administrative procedures are required upon arrival in Belgium?"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"

When you arrive in Belgium from the Netherlands, you will need to carry out other formalities to have legal expat status. For example:

  1. Register with the municipality: You must register with the municipality where you live within eight days of your arrival. In addition to your identity documents, you will have to provide proof of accommodation. You will then receive a residence permit which will be your identity document in Belgium.
  2. Social security and health insurance: To benefit from healthcare reimbursements, you must register with the mutual insurance system (this is the term used in Belgium to designate the compulsory social security system). Supplementary health insurance may cover costs not reimbursed by the compulsory system. Check the mutual insurance conditions in order to decide what’s best for you.
  3. Opening a bank account: Opening a bank account in Belgium is essential to manage your finances. The main Belgian banks offer services especially adapted to expats. You can open an account at a branch or online and sometimes even before you arrive (this is possible at ING for example). You will need your ID, proof of residence and sometimes proof of income.
  4. Vehicle registration: If you bring your own car from the Netherlands, you must, in almost every case, register it in Belgium and pay the mandatory taxes to obtain a Belgian registration plate. You will also need to take out local car insurance.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"What is everyday life like in Belgium?"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"

Expat life means adapting to a new living environment. Consider the following criteria:

  1. Cost of living: day to day expenses in Belgium vary considerably depending on the region. Brussels is generally more expensive than the rest of the country, particularly in terms of housing. The cities of Antwerp, Ghent and Leuven, which attract many Dutch-speaking expats, are expensive in Belgian terms but each offers a friendly atmosphere and a pleasant living environment in their own way.
  2. Transport: you should favour public transport in and around the major cities.
    Good to know! The Flemish cities are very well equipped if you want to get around by bicycle.
  3. Language and culture: as Dutch is one of the three official languages in Belgium (along with French and German), you will have things much easier if you move to Flanders or Brussels. However, having some French can be very useful on a daily basis if you are move to Brussels.
  4. Education: Belgium has an excellent education system, for both public schools and private schools. There are also international schools where courses are taught in English, French or Dutch, as you wish.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Are there many expats in Belgium?"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"

Belgium is a small, particularly cosmopolitan kingdom. European institutions, international companies, renowned universities and the port of Antwerp attract a huge community of expats and this facilitates integration by newcomers.

"}},{"componentType":"highlight","title":"Tip","richBody":{"value":"

You can turn to expat groups, online forums, your consulate or the information service in your host city to grow your local network and better understand the country’s specificities. A good step on the way to feeling at home in your host country!

"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"

Follow the steps in this practical guide for a smooth hassle-free expatriation to Belgium. And our dedicated ING expat service is there to help and support you. Welcome to Belgium!

"}}]}}}