Moving to Brussels: Your Ultimate Relocation Guide

Greetings from the enchanting city of Brussels! Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure and make this captivating city your new home? Brace yourself for a relocation experience like no other, as we guide you through the wonders that await in this cosmopolitan hub. Let’s dive into the details and unveil the magic of Brussels.

Brussels:

A Captivating Capital Welcome to Brussels, the thriving capital of Belgium that beckons with its cosmopolitan allure. With a population of 2.080 million people, this city has embraced a diverse community of foreign residents and expats who now call it home. As a coastal country, Belgium experiences all four seasons, with spring bringing abundant rainfall. The primary languages spoken here are Flemish and French, but fret not, as there are numerous language schools in the city that can help you enhance your fluency.

Visa:

Your Gateway to Brussels If you’re coming from a non-EU country, securing a Schengen Visa is essential for your entry into Belgium and the European Union. Alternatively, eligible individuals can consider the ETIAS Visa Waiver Program, which allows travel to Belgium without a Schengen Visa. However, if your plan is to stay in Brussels for more than 90 days (approximately three months), applying for a long-stay visa is crucial. This will grant you the opportunity to reside in Brussels for at least a year, facilitating your smooth transition into the city.

Getting Around:

Seamless City Navigation Despite its fairytale-like ambiance, Brussels is equipped with modern conveniences, including an efficient public transport system. The metro, buses, trams, taxis, and even bicycles make traversing the city a breeze. The metro system, with its four separate lines, conveniently connects you to various districts in Brussels. While trams offer a slightly slower pace, they provide an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s enchanting landscapes. For those inclined towards taxis or cycling, transportation apps are readily available to cater to your preferences.

Where to Live:

Discover Your Perfect Neighborhood Choosing the ideal neighborhood in Brussels can be one of the most exciting yet daunting tasks during your relocation journey. Each district possesses its own unique charm, leaving you with a delightful dilemma of where to reside. For the artistically inclined, the creative hub of Ixelles beckons, while Sablon appeals to those who yearn for the nostalgic beauty of Brussels, evoking a sense of time travel.

Real Estate:

 Affordable Living in Brussels Contrary to the exorbitant costs of living in cities like Paris and Rome, Brussels offers a more affordable housing market. Monthly rental fees range from €600.00 to €2,000.00, catering to various budgets. Whether you opt for a luxurious long-term rental or a mid-range flat, Brussels presents an enticing array of options without burdening your finances.

Education:

Empowering Young Minds Brussels takes pride in being one of Europe’s most international capitals, housing the headquarters of the European Union. Consequently, the city boasts numerous international schools dedicated to providing a high-quality education to expat families and their children. These institutions offer diverse curricula, delivering exceptional educational experiences to both local and international students. The Scandinavian School of Brussels, The British School of Brussels, and the Brussels American School are esteemed institutions that merit your attention.

Healthcare:

Prioritizing Your Well-Being Ensuring the well-being of you and your family is of utmost importance, and Belgian healthcare excels in this regard. Once you achieve legal residency, you can avail yourself of the comprehensive Belgian healthcare system. While private insurance remains an option, the public healthcare system provides extensive coverage and invaluable peace of mind. In Brussels, esteemed hospitals like CHU Brugmann and Hôpital Erasme ULB offer exceptional medical services and first-class treatments.

Safety:

Embrace a Secure Environment The question of safety often weighs heavily on the minds of relocating individuals. Fortunately, Brussels maintains a relatively moderate crime rate compared to other global capital cities, standing at 55.66%. With a safety rate of 67.46% during the day and 37.66% at night, Brussels remains a safe city to explore. It is advisable, however, to exercise caution and avoid certain areas, such as Gare du Midi and the city’s red-light district, regardless of the time of day.

Taxes:

Navigate the Belgian Tax System Acquainting yourself with Belgium’s tax system is crucial when relocating to the country. While there may be some similarities to tax systems in other nations, Belgium’s system possesses distinctive nuances that demand attention. Income tax rates are determined by your annual salary, while property taxes vary across different regions. In Brussels, the property tax rate stands at 2.25%. Familiarizing yourself with these intricacies will ensure a smoother transition and help you manage your finances effectively.

Relocation Tips:

 Embrace a Seamless Transition As you embark on your relocation journey, remember two essential factors. Firstly, establish a local bank account to efficiently manage your finances. Having your own account facilitates cost-effective international transfers. Secondly, join a local mobile network by acquiring a local SIM card. This step ensures seamless connectivity, keeping you comfortable and connected throughout your stay. Belgium’s trustworthy and efficient mobile networks make this a hassle-free endeavor.

Embrace the wonders that await you in Brussels and prepare to embark on a remarkable chapter of your life in this magnificent city!

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