Emigrate to Belgium
Emigrate to Belgium: Find out the most important information for your stay here
Belgium, the heart of Europe, is a country of contrasts, combining a rich history with a modern way of life. It boasts cultural and linguistic diversity as well as varied landscapes, ranging from the cosmopolitan atmosphere of cities such as Brussels and Antwerp to the tranquillity of the Flemish countryside and the picturesque villages of the Ardennes. With a high quality of life, a well-developed social system and stable economic prospects, Belgium is an attractive destination for those looking to emigrate to Belgium. However, you should be prepared for sometimes complex bureaucratic processes.
Facts about Belgium
Capital City
Rome
Population
58.94 million
Surface Area
116,631 mi² or 302,073 km²
Continent
Europe
Official Language
Dutch, French, German
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Emigrating to Belgium: An overview of the political system
Belgium is a federal, constitutional monarchy with a complex political structure. National matters such as foreign policy, defense and social security are regulated at the federal level. The regional level comprises three regions - Flanders, Wallonia and Brussels - which have their own competencies in education, the economy and infrastructure. The language communities (Flemish, French and German-speaking) take care of cultural matters such as language, education and media.
The king is the representative head of state without political power. The parliament, consisting of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies, is directly elected, as is the government, which is responsible for implementing laws. There is universal suffrage from the age of 18.
The responsibilities of the authorities vary depending on the region and issue, which often makes the political landscape complex. In addition, the linguistic diversity requires that you speak the language of the respective region. Anyone wishing to emigrate to Belgium should therefore be well prepared for the cultural and political circumstances. Coalition governments play a key role in shaping Belgian politics.
Climate in Belgium: Important information for emigrants
The Belgian climate is characterized by mild temperatures, with pleasantly warm summers and cool, but rarely harsh winters. Due to its proximity to the sea, there is often high humidity, which is particularly noticeable in summer. Rain is frequent throughout the year, especially in the fall and winter. The weather is changeable, which is why flexible clothing is advisable. If you want to emigrate to Belgium, you should be prepared for these climatic conditions. Regional differences are particularly noticeable in the Ardennes, where it is cooler and there is more rainfall than in the coastal regions.
Healthcare system in Belgium: Important facts for emigrants
In Belgium, statutory health insurance is compulsory for all residents and employees. The so-called "Mutuelle" comprises numerous statutory and private health insurance companies with varying benefits and contributions. The insurance covers part of the costs of treatment, medication and hospitalization, while supplementary private insurance can cover additional services such as dental treatment. Insured persons are free to choose their doctor and hospital.
Before moving to Belgium, you should find out all you can about the healthcare system and insurance options. Anyone wishing to emigrate to Belgium should make a comparison of health insurance companies in order to make the right choice. It is important to check the cost coverage before treatment and to keep all documents such as invoices and reports for reimbursement.
Emigrating to Belgium: An overview of the economic situation and quality of life
Belgium's gross domestic product per capita amounted to 56,128.79 US dollars in 2024. The Gini coefficient of wealth describes the distribution of wealth. The indicator is an established, internationally comparable measure of wealth inequality. It is measured on a scale from zero to one. The higher the value, the greater the inequality. The Gini coefficient in Belgium is expected to be around 0.27 in 2025 (source: Statista).
Belgium offers a high quality of life, characterized by a balanced mix of urban life, rural idyll and cultural richness. Important aspects for emigrants are the robust social system, which includes good healthcare, unemployment benefits and pensions, as well as the education system, which is considered one of the best in Europe. Belgium is characterized by its security, a strong economy with international job opportunities and a wide range of cultural and leisure activities.
The landscape ranges from North Sea beaches to the Ardennes, and Belgian cuisine delights with specialties such as chocolate, beer and fries. Despite the many advantages, anyone wishing to emigrate to Belgium should inform themselves well in advance about life in Belgium in order to be optimally prepared.
National holiday
It commemorates the day in 1831 when King Leopold I, the first King of the Belgians, took the oath of allegiance to the Constitution, thereby establishing Belgium's independence and the constitutional monarchy.
Emigrate to Belgium - Entry Requirements
Entry is possible for German nationals with the following documents:
- Passport: Yes
- Temporary passport: Yes
- Identity card: Yes
- Provisional identity card: Yes
- Children's passport: Yes
FAQs for emigrating to Belgium
Where can I find relevant information about my country of entry and the entry regulations that apply there?
We have compiled destination country information as well as entry requirements and customs information for many countries in the Relocation Service section of our website and are constantly expanding this section.
Can I use my own container that I already own for the move with DACHSER & KOLB?
For every removal, which we at DACHSER & KOLB always offer as a door-to-door (full service) removal, a container is rented for the duration of the removal. We therefore do not offer the option of using your own container.
Who is responsible for my move abroad and the services I need there?
As a FIDI member, we work abroad with selected, long-standing partners who work in accordance with our service standards.
Are my removal goods insured in the event of damage?
For every overseas move, we naturally cover transportation insurance at current value for the used household goods and personal belongings
What types of transportation do you offer for overseas relocation?
It is generally possible to carry out overseas removals via air freight or sea freight. In the case of sea freight, it is possible to ship the removal goods as additional cargo (“LCL shipment” with Liftvan) or with a container (FCL shipment in 20 feet, 40 feet or 40 feet high cube). We will be happy to discuss which option is best for you in a personal consultation.
When and how must the move be paid for and what is the payment deadline?
You will receive an invoice a few weeks after placing the order and pay the full amount directly in advance.
Do I have to pay taxes and customs duties on my removal goods?
Removal goods can be imported tax and duty-free into most countries if you have a valid residence permit. We will be happy to check the options for importing the removal goods for your desired destination country in a personal consultation.
Are you interested in moving to Belgium or another destination country?
Then do not hesitate and contact us today.
Donna Draganov
Teamlead Customer Service & Sales - ROAD
