Belgium
Country Guide

Have you decided to Move to Belgium?
Whether you’re planning a tourist trip or a business relocation, here’s what you should know before you go.

Belgium General Overview

• Official country name: Kingdom of Belgium (Koninkrijk België / Royaume de Belgique / Königreich Belgien)
• Location: Western Europe, bordered by France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, with North Sea coastline
• Capital city: Brussels (also serves as de facto capital of the European Union)
• Official language(s): Dutch (Flemish), French, and German
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Time zone: UTC+1 (Central European Time), UTC+2 (Central European Summer Time)

Culture & Traditions in Belgium

• Key customs to be aware of:
  
  • Linguistic and regional divisions between Flemish (Dutch-speaking north), Wallonia (French-speaking south), and small German-speaking community in east.
  • Strong emphasis on work-life balance with generous vacation time and shorter work weeks.
  • Modest, unpretentious culture – Belgians value privacy and tend to be reserved with strangers.
  • Food culture is central – from chocolates and waffles to beer and frites (fries).
  • Punctuality is important in both business and social settings.
  • Handshakes are standard greeting; cheek kisses (three, alternating) common among friends.
  • Complex federal structure with regional governments influences daily life.

• Number of official public holidays: 10 national days
  
  • New Year’s Day (January 1), Easter Monday (moveable), Labor Day (May 1), Ascension Day (moveable, 39 days after Easter), Whit Monday (moveable, 50 days after Easter), Belgian National Day (July 21), Assumption of Mary (August 15), All Saints’ Day (November 1), Armistice Day (November 11), Christmas Day (December 25).

     

• Main traditional dishes and local drinks:
  
  • Dishes: Moules-frites (mussels and fries, national dish), Waterzooi (creamy chicken or fish stew), Carbonnade flamande (beef stew with beer), Stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables), Waffles (Brussels and Liège styles), Vol-au-vent, Endive gratin, Speculoos cookies, Belgian chocolates (world-renowned).
  • Drinks: Beer (over 1,500 varieties including Trappist, Lambic, Abbey beers), Jenever (gin), Wine, Belgian hot chocolate, Coffee culture is strong.

     

• Languages spoken daily and common expressions:
  
  • Dutch/Flemish spoken in Flanders (north) by 60% of population.
  • French spoken in Wallonia (south) and Brussels by 40% of population.
  • German spoken by small community in eastern Liège province (<1%).
  • English widely spoken, especially in Brussels, business settings, and by younger generations.
  • Language sensitivity is important – use appropriate language for region.
  • Common expressions (Dutch/French):
    • “Hallo/Goedendag” / “Bonjour” (Hello)
    • “Dank u/Dank je” / “Merci” (Thank you)
    • “Alstublieft/Alsjeblieft” / “S’il vous plaît” (Please)
    • “Tot ziens” / “Au revoir” (Goodbye)
    • “Excuseer” / “Excusez-moi” (Excuse me)

       

• Specific clothing and behavioral norms:
  
  • Business attire is formal and conservative – suits standard in professional environments.
  • Casual dress is neat and tidy; Belgians tend to dress well even casually.
  • Weather is unpredictable – layers and rain gear essential year-round.
  • Remove shoes in some homes (ask if unsure).
  • Privacy is valued – avoid overly personal questions with new acquaintances.
  • Table manners are important – hands on table but not elbows.
  • Moderate volume in public – loud behavior is frowned upon.

     

• Cultural Festivals:
  
  • Carnival – February/March, particularly famous in Binche with UNESCO-recognized Gilles parade.
  • Ommegang – July, Brussels, historic pageant in Grand Place.
  • Gentse Feesten – July, Ghent, 10-day city festival with music and street performances.
  • Tomorrowland – July, Boom, world-famous electronic music festival.
  • Belgian Beer Weekend – September, Brussels, celebrating beer culture in Grand Place.
  • Christmas Markets – December, throughout major cities, especially Brussels, Bruges, Ghent.
  • Processie van het Heilig Bloed – May, Bruges, Procession of the Holy Blood (UNESCO).

Demographics & Society in Belgium

• Total population: Approximately 11.6 million

   

• Major ethnic groups: Belgian (native) including Flemish and Walloon (75%), other European (mainly Italian, French, Dutch – 16%), North African (primarily Moroccan and Turkish – 6%), other (3%). Highly diverse, particularly in Brussels.

   

• Main religion(s): Roman Catholic (50% nominal, though active practice much lower), Muslim (5-6%), Protestant (2.5%), Other Christian (2%), Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, non-religious (32%). Belgium is largely secular despite Catholic heritage.

   

• General safety level:
  
  • Generally very safe with low violent crime rates.
  • Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching) occurs in tourist areas and public transport in Brussels.
  • Brussels has some neighborhoods with higher crime rates – research areas.
  • Terrorism concerns exist (past attacks in Brussels); remain vigilant in crowded places.
  • Cycling is common but accidents can occur – follow traffic rules carefully.
  • Overall one of the safest countries in Europe.

     

• Attitude towards foreigners and diversity:
  
  • Very international, especially Brussels which hosts EU institutions, NATO, and multinational corporations.
  • Generally welcoming to expats with large, established international communities.
  • Language can be a barrier and sensitivity; learning local language (Dutch or French) appreciated.
  • Some linguistic tensions between Flemish and Walloon communities.
  • Multicultural society with significant immigration history.
  • English widely spoken in international/business contexts, facilitating expat integration.
  • Reserved initial interactions but warm friendships once established.

Belgium Key Cities & Regions

• Capital city: Brussels (1.2 million city, 2.1 million metro) – EU capital, international hub, multilingual, Grand Place (UNESCO), Art Nouveau architecture, Atomium, multicultural dining, museums. Learn more here…

   

• Major cities:
  
  • Antwerp (530,000) – Diamond capital, fashion hub, largest port, Rubens heritage, trendy neighborhoods, vibrant nightlife.
  • Ghent (265,000) – Medieval architecture, canal city, student town, Gravensteen castle, vibrant cultural scene.
  • Charleroi (202,000) – Industrial city, budget airline hub (Brussels South Airport), undergoing revitalization.
  • Liège (197,000) – Walloon city, railway hub, Gothic architecture, Prince-Bishops’ Palace, industrial heritage.
  • Bruges (118,000) – UNESCO World Heritage medieval city, canals, chocolate, tourism center, “Venice of the North.” Learn more here…
  • Namur (111,000) – Capital of Wallonia, citadel, confluence of rivers, government center.
  • Leuven (102,000) – University town, medieval center, headquarters of Stella Artois brewery.
  • Mons (95,000) – Cultural capital, Grand Place, Doudou festival (UNESCO).

     

• Must-visit regions or landmarks: Grand Place Brussels (UNESCO), Bruges historic center (UNESCO), Atomium, Manneken Pis, Belgian Ardennes (forests, castles, hiking), Waterloo battlefield, Gravensteen Castle (Ghent), Diamond District (Antwerp), Spa town (original spa), Durbuy (smallest town), La Grand-Place/Grote Markt Brussels, Belfries of Belgium (UNESCO), Canal du Centre historic lifts (UNESCO).

Weather & Climate in Belgium

• Type of climate: Temperate maritime with mild temperatures, moderate rainfall year-round, and unpredictable weather.

   

• Average seasonal temperatures:
  
  • Winter (December – February): 0-7°C (32-45°F), cold, damp, occasional snow, grey skies.
  • Spring (March – May): 6-17°C (43-63°F), gradually warming, frequent rain, pleasant by May.
  • Summer (June – August): 14-23°C (57-73°F), mild to warm, occasional hot spells to 30°C (86°F), moderate rainfall.
  • Autumn (September – November): 7-18°C (45-64°F), cooling, increasing rain, fog, colorful foliage.
  • Rainfall distributed throughout year; drizzle common; always carry umbrella.

     

Belgium Schooling

Health & Care in Belgium

Banking in Belgium

Practical Informations Before Going to Belgium

• Entry requirements:
  
  • EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: No visa required; free movement with ID card or passport.
  • US/UK/Canada/Australia/many others: Visa-free entry for up to 90 days within 180-day period (Schengen Area).
  • Long-term stays: Residence permits required for stays exceeding 90 days.
  • Work permits: Required for non-EU citizens; arranged by employer.
  • Family reunification: Available for spouses and dependents of residents.
  • EU Blue Card: Available for highly skilled workers.
    

Belgium (Schengen Area) Visa Requirements Summary

Common Schengen Visa Requirements for All Three Countries

The core documentation requirements for the Schengen Visa are strict and generally include:

• Duly Completed Application Form (usually filled out online).

• Valid Passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended departure from the Schengen Area).

• Travel Medical Insurance (minimum coverage of €30,000, valid throughout the entire Schengen Area).

• Proof of Accommodation (Hotel bookings or Certificate of Sponsorship/Accommodation from a host in Belgium).

• Proof of Financial Means (bank statements, salary slips, or a formal Affidavit of Support from a sponsor).

• Proof of Travel (round-trip flight reservation—it is usually advised not to purchase the ticket until the visa is granted).

Useful Link

Since the visa is a Schengen visa, the application is handled by the Belgian government or their appointed service provider (e.g., VFS Global or TLScontact) : Official Belgian Foreign Affairs Portal – Visa Information (Schengen)

• Local transportation options:
  
  • Trains (NMBS/SNCB) – Extensive, efficient rail network connecting all cities; affordable; punctuality can vary.
  • Trams and buses – Excellent urban public transport in all major cities; De Lijn (Flanders), STIB/MIVB (Brussels), TEC (Wallonia).
  • Brussels Metro – Four lines serving capital; integrated with tram/bus network.
  • Bicycles – Extensive cycling infrastructure, especially in Flanders; bike-sharing systems (Villo! in Brussels).
  • Taxis and ride-sharing – Uber available in major cities; traditional taxis expensive.
  • Rental cars – Available but not necessary in cities; useful for exploring countryside.
  • International connections – Eurostar to London, Thalys to Paris/Amsterdam, ICE to Germany.

     

• Cost of living:
  
  • Housing: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Brussels center: €900-1,400; outside center: €700-1,100; Antwerp/Ghent similar; smaller cities cheaper €600-900. Learn more here…
  • Food: Restaurant meals: €15-30 for mid-range; €8-12 for casual lunch. Groceries moderate; local markets offer good value.
  • Transport: Monthly public transport pass: €49-75 depending on city/zone; trains affordable with railcards.
  • Utilities: €150-250/month including heating.
  • Overall: High cost of living comparable to other Western European countries; Brussels expensive; Wallonia generally more affordable than Flanders.

     

• Electrical outlets and voltage used: Type E and C outlets (European standard), 230V / 50Hz.

   

• Emergency numbers to know:
  
  • Police: 101
  • Ambulance/Fire: 100
  • Unified Emergency: 112 (EU standard)
  • Poison Center: 070-245-245
  • Child Focus (missing children): 116 000

Belgium Visitor Tips

• Gestures to avoid or cultural taboos:
  
  • Language sensitivity is crucial – don’t assume everyone speaks French or Dutch; ask which language they prefer.
  • Avoid comparing Belgium to France or the Netherlands – Belgians are proud of distinct identity.
  • Don’t call fries “French fries” – they’re Belgian!
  • Avoid discussing linguistic/regional divisions unless initiated by locals.
  • Punctuality is important – being late is disrespectful.
  • Don’t be overly loud or boisterous in public – modesty and discretion valued.
  • Avoid aggressive or confrontational behavior.
  • Don’t skip small talk with shopkeepers – greeting is polite.

     

• Specific regulations:
  
  • Legal drinking age is 16 for beer and wine, 18 for spirits.
  • Public alcohol consumption generally allowed but restricted in some areas.
  • Smoking banned in enclosed public spaces, restaurants, bars (except designated areas).
  • Drug laws: Cannabis possession decriminalized for small amounts (personal use) but not legal; hard drugs illegal.
  • Euthanasia is legal under specific conditions.
  • Same-sex marriage legal since 2003 (second country worldwide).
  • Cycling laws: lights required at night; phone use prohibited while cycling.
  • Face-covering clothing banned in public spaces.

     

• Tips for integrating locally:
  
  • Learn the local language (Dutch in Flanders, French in Wallonia) – essential for full integration and shows respect.
  • Join expat groups and international clubs – large community especially in Brussels.
  • Participate in local festivals and cultural events.
  • Be patient with Belgian reserve – friendships develop slowly but are genuine.
  • Embrace food culture – try local specialties, visit markets, explore beer varieties.
  • Understand regional differences and sensitivities regarding language and identity.
  • Register with commune (municipality) within 8 days of arrival.
  • Get a Belgian bank account and health insurance (mutuelle/mutualiteit).
  • Invest in quality rain gear and accept unpredictable weather.
  • Join sports clubs, hobby groups, or volunteer organizations.

     

• Potential risks or important considerations:
  
  • Weather: Grey, rainy, and damp much of the year; can affect mood; seasonal affective disorder possible.
  • Bureaucracy: Complex administrative system with federal, regional, and community levels; patience required.
  • Language requirements: Some jobs and residence procedures require Dutch or French proficiency.
  • High taxes: Belgium has some of Europe’s highest tax rates (progressive, up to 50% income tax).
  • Housing market: Competitive in popular cities; rental deposits and guarantees required.
  • Healthcare registration: Mandatory health insurance; register with mutuelle within 90 days.
  • Cycling safety: Heavy cycling traffic; accidents occur; follow rules and be cautious.
  • Terrorism concerns: Brussels has been targeted; remain vigilant in crowded areas.
  • Strike culture: Unions are strong; transport strikes can disrupt services.
  • Cost of living: High expenses, especially housing, childcare, and dining out.
  • Linguistic complexity: Language regions strictly defined; administrative procedures must use appropriate language.