Belgium

Moving to Belgium

Each of the four seasons in Belgium offer something for every visitor, nomad, permanent resident, or investor. In the spring, take a meandering bike ride through the stunning (if not slightly Grimms’ Fairy Tale-esque) Ardennes Forest while enjoying the view of castle spires jutting out in the distance. In the summer, grab an outdoor spot at a local restaurant to nibble on tiny cheese blocks and salted nuts while enjoying one of many blond or brun Trappist beers on offer (trust us, this is a must). In the fall, enjoy the trees turning over while tucking into the national dish of moules-frites–again, with a side of beer only available in this region. In the winters, bundle up outside at a local eatery, wrapped in a cozy tartan fleece as you nosh on local stew and sip on a brew under the warm glow of a heat lamp.

Distinct as its seasons, beers, and array of topographical delights are the cities we’ve all heard of and love: Brussels, Bruge, Antwerp, and Namur. Let’s dig a little deeper:

Brussels, of course, is this nation’s capital, but long considered the de facto capital of the European Union given this is its administrative power hub and home to more journalists and ambassadors than Washington, D.C. Bursting with history and politics, you can find everything you need here: from a mega Apple store to a passport renewal at your local embassy.

Pop up to Bruge for a less gritty, more sublime escape. Tour the city via a canal punting excursion or get lost on foot or by bike wandering the cobblestone streets. With more than 75 bridges and water slicing its way through the old town center, it’s easy to get lost in the juxtaposition of an ancient settlement adjacent to modern offerings.

To the East, you’ll find Antwerp. This massive port city is flooded with gold and diamond peddlers with some statistics claiming 80% of the world’s uncut diamonds are purchased here. Antwerp has fantastic restaurants, is a walkable city, and boasts incredible museums (catch free access to most museums the last Wednesday of each month).

Farther south you’ll land upon Namur. This French-speaking student-centered city is all hustle and bustle, cigarettes, beer, and outdoor dining. It’s flanked by forest and channels to a jogger’s and biker’s delight and offers an ease of living with accessible grocery outlets as well as the option for a quick getaway using train lines to Germany, Paris, and London.

Whatever your motive for relocating to Belgium, the country has a way of complimenting just about any lifestyle and palate.

What's it like to live in Belgium?

Belgium is a small country located in Western Europe, bordered by the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France. It is known for its beautiful cities, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural history. The country is home to a diverse population, with people of many different nationalities and backgrounds living together in harmony. The official languages of Belgium are Dutch, French, and German, and most people are fluent in at least two of these languages.

The standard of living in Belgium is high, and the country has a well-developed social welfare system. Healthcare, education, and other public services are generally of good quality. The climate in Belgium is temperate, with cool winters and mild summers. The country is relatively small, so it is easy to travel to different regions and experience a variety of cultures and landscapes.

Overall, living in Belgium can be a very enjoyable experience, with a high quality of life and many opportunities for cultural and recreational activities.

Immigration Options for Belgium

There are several immigration options available to people who want to move to Belgium. Some of the most common options include:

Work visa: If you have been offered a job in Belgium, you may be able to apply for a work visa. This type of visa allows you to live and work in the country for a specific period of time.

Family reunification visa: If you have a spouse, parent, or child who is a citizen of Belgium or a resident of the country, you may be able to apply for a family reunification visa.

Student visa: If you are planning to study in Belgium, you will need to apply for a student visa. This type of visa allows you to live and study in the country for the duration of your studies.

EU citizenship: If you are a citizen of an EU country, you have the right to live, work, and study in Belgium without the need for a visa.

If you are interested in immigrating to Belgium, it is important to research the different options and understand the requirements and process for each one. It is also a good idea to seek the guidance of a qualified immigration lawyer or other professional to help you navigate the process.