Changing continent? What a fantastic adventure! Here we give you all the main administrative formalities you will need to carry out when preparing for your move to Belgium from the United States. This practical guide will tell you about all the essential legal aspects, as well as providing useful information on working and living in Belgium. Welcome to the Crossroads of Europe!
"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","title":"Contact the appropriate authorities","richBody":{"value":"Belgium is a federal state composed of several administrative regions. Each regional authority has different regulations on foreign workers. The precise information you need depends therefore on the Region you will be moving to/working in: Brussels-capital region, Flemish region or Walloon region.
"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","title":"How do I get a long-stay visa?","richBody":{"value":"
You must follow a strict procedure to get a long-stay visa (Visa D). Your application must first be submitted to the appropriate Belgian consulate in the United States. You will have to provide a range of documents, such as a valid passport, a medical certificate or a certificate of good conduct issued by the relevant US authorities.
This process takes time, so submit your application as soon as possible.
"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","title":"How do I get a work permit?","richBody":{"value":"The procedures vary depending on your status (employee, employer, self-employed, etc.) but in any case, you will need a work permit to be able to work in Belgium.
You will find on Working In Belgium the various possible options for your work permit.
Depending on your profile, you can also apply for an EU Blue Card: a single permit with a specified duration that concerns a certain category of highly qualified workers.
"}},{"componentType":"highlight","title":"Good to know","richBody":{"value":"When you work for an employer in Belgium, one single permit combines your residence permit and your work permit (principle similar to the Green Card). If your employer submits the work permit application for you, this also counts as an application for a residence permit.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Moving to Belgium from the United States"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Hire an international moving company after comparing quotes. And make sure you comply with Belgian customs regulations regarding the import of personal goods. You will find legal information concerning the import of goods into Belgium from the United States on this page on the SPF Finances website.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Administrative formalities to be completed UPON ARRIVAL in Belgium from the United States"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Once in Belgium, you will have to take new steps to get legally and comfortably settled in.
Upon registration, you will receive a National Identification Number (NISS) which will be used for all your administrative formalities.
If you move to Belgium with your partner and/or your children, they too will need to find their place in Belgium. This is essential for a great expatriation experience.
"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","title":"Schools for your children in Belgium","richBody":{"value":"Belgium has several education systems because education depends on each regional authority. The system is therefore different in Flanders and Wallonia, while both coexist in Brussels. Public schools are high quality. Classes are taught in French or Dutch.
Belgium also has a large number of private international schools, where you can choose to have your children taught in English (e.g. International School of Brussels (ISB). These establishments are generally located in or near the large cities.
Remember to apply for your children well in advance to ensure they get a place in the school of your choice.
"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","title":"Work opportunities in Belgium for your partner","richBody":{"value":"Belgium offers a highly diversified labour market. Some regulated professions require your qualifications to be officially recognised. So your partner may have to have their qualifications recognised in order to be able to work in Belgium. Visit the ENIC-NARIC network (European Network of Information Centres - National Academic Recognition Information Centre) for more information.
To find a job in Belgium, you have several options:
These resources can provide you with more details and possible updates to prepare for your expatriation.
"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"We hope that this quick guide will help you make a smooth move to Belgium. And remember that we have your back on this great adventure!
"}}]}}}