Ruth Friedman is a British expat living in Belgium. Here’s a good primer on the cost of living in Brussels: When living in Belgium it would be illogical not to take advantage of the excellent public transport systems, particularly as this is an inexpensive as well as efficient way to get around. Are you in need of help and advice from your British compatriots? Look through our Members … The one other thing that it is important to note about the cost of living in Belgium is that taxes are very high, with income tax being more than 50% for the highest earners. This is however offset by the fact that tax and social security systems are well developed to ensures that incomes are distributed fairly evenly across most industries. Search the InterNations Places database for Belgium to get information on institutions from your home country, including the British embassy. Also, be sure to check out our comprehensive Expat Country Guides! It’s worth booking your rental car online in advance with a broker to compare prices and get a better bargain, as renting a car can be fairly expensive. This is indeed for 11 a side football. With its tirelessly romantic meandering canals rimmed with overhanging medieval buildings, rambling ramparts, historical churches, and intriguing alleyways, Bruges resembles something out of a storybook. If you ever wish to have a chat in your native language, discover where to shop for British food or discuss your favorite sports team's latest match, become a member of the Belgian InterNations Community: From the French-influenced provinces of the Walloon Region to the Flemish North, we’ll help you connect with supportive and friendly British expats in Belgium. You can really get lost in the "capital of Europe" - InterNations helped me to get settled and to make a lot of expat friends. Will probably drop in and check it out :). Our get-togethers are very diverse and range from a cozy gathering to enjoy the traditional Belgian pommes frites, to big expat celebrations with hundreds of participants in Brussels’s best locations. the French-influenced provinces of the Walloon Region? This should be obtained by your Belgian employer and is valid for up to 1 year, after which time it can be renewed. Attend our monthly events and activities for Brits expatriates to get to know like-minded expatriates in real life. I loved moving to Brussels. City bus transport is very efficient, and there are the addition of metro and tram services in the major cities of Antwerp and Brussels. Would you like to get in touch with other Brits in Belgium? Get trustworthy advice and local insights from fellow Brits in our Belgium expat forums. Belgian cities are vibrant and full of charm, and the country offers a wealth of historical attractions, from World War sites to Medieval castles and Renaissance architecture, plus pretty canals, world class museums and galleries, fabulous food, and a ton of entertainments. It’s no wonder that this beautiful city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Competition for jobs can be tough, so a good CV is essential, but employee benefits are generally very attractive. She has lived in Belgium for 10 years and was previously married to a Belgian. InterNations helps you connect and meet up with other Brits in Belgium, residing in Brussels, Antwerp, … This site is part of the Amazon affiliate program. Browse our latest trips around the world below. Belgium boasts a temperate maritime climate not dissimilar to the UK, so you won’t need to buy a whole new wardrobe to move here. Rent is without doubt the biggest expenditure for any expat living in Belgium. The star attraction of Genval is its stunning lake surrounded by trees, which is the perfect setting for watersports or dining at one of the many exclusive restaurants that can be found here. Belgium may be small, but it packs a lot of punch. Belgian trains are some of the best and most efficient in Europe, with a far reaching network, fast and frequent trains, and affordable fares. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Our Brussels community is also lively and welcoming offline. Driving in Belgium is pretty safe. The port city of Antwerp in northern Belgium is equal parts quaint and cool. The "Capital Of Europe" offers so much for expats to explore - our community helps you enjoy your stay to the fullest. Anybody is welcome to come to the training 3 or 4 times to see if they like it for free. Belgium is also a great location for traveling Europe, and this can be a factor in expats' relocation and happiness in the country. Regular socializing with fellow Brits is an essential part of expat life and helps getting accustomed to the Belgian way of life and mentality. Are you planning a move from the UK to Belgium? Many expats move to Belgium for job opportunities, with most having a high level of education, a Master's or PhD for example, before making the move to the country. If you have your own transport you must make sure that you are adequately insured. As a member of InterNations, you will have access to an active group of British expats, hailing from London, Cardiff, Glasgow and all regions of the UK. Take in the magnificence of the ornate Grand Place at the centre of the city, stroll along the picturesque canals, browse the intriguing flea markets, or enjoy the wealth of almost non stop entertainments on offer including weekend festivals, concerts, gastronomic events, and street theatre. All 4 senior teams train together. Away from the major urban areas, monthly costs are significantly cheaper. So if you have any particular questions please contact me. It’s no surprise that this wonderful, multicultural city has attracted expats from all over the world. Anyone employed in Belgium must contribute towards the national health insurance, which include expats unless they have non-resident tax status. It’s a lively and affordable place for expats to live. Ghent’s huge student population lends much to the vibrant atmosphere of this cosmopolitan canal side city, which combined with the chilled atmosphere and wealth of interesting historical sites make it a city not to be missed. 10 things to do during your first week in Belgium; Applying for Belgian citizenship ; Visas and permits in Belgium; More. The economy in Belgium is based on private enterprise and benefits from its central European location and highly … Just take a look at our group of Brits in Brussels or Brits in Antwerp. Famously the home town of Baroque master artist Pieter Paul Rubens, Antwerp retains a bohemian quality which continues to attract artists, fashionistas, musicians, and other creative types. These activities make it easy for you to get to know other expats from United Kingdom in your local community and meet Brits in Belgium in a comfortable setting. Obtain and share insider tips in our Belgium Expat Forums – e.g. Although rather impractical in the city, driving your own set of wheels in Belgium is the best way to explore off the beaten track. The InterNations Ambassadors host regular get-togethers and a range of expat activities, e.g. There are over 4.5 million UK expats scattered around the world today. CANCELED: InterNations Brussels Official Event, Let's Discover the Beauty & Breweries of Saint Gilles. how to hire a babysitter fluent in your native tongue for your children or where to get roast beef in Antwerp. Whilst it may not be the cheapest country in Europe, the cost of living in Belgium is still cheaper than that in the UK.