Immigration to Belgium for Greek citizens: step by step to a new life

Immigration to Belgium is becoming an increasingly popular choice for Greek citizens due to the favorable conditions for living and working in the country. The country attracts Greeks with a stable economy, high-quality education, and rich culture. In this article, we will provide detailed information about the immigration process, including types of visas, obtaining a residence permit, work opportunities, and adaptation tips. Find out how to become part of Belgian society and start a new life abroad!

Why Greeks Choose Belgium

For Greeks, Belgium is becoming an attractive destination due to its combination of economic stability and high standard of living. Many Greeks choose this country not only for work, but also for education or family life. The availability of well-paid jobs and developed social infrastructure make moving to Belgium a promising solution for Greek citizens.

Reasons for the move of Greek residents to Belgium:

• Developed labor market. The country has a high demand for qualified personnel in such areas as IT, medicine, construction and education. This opens up employment opportunities even for foreign specialists.
• High salaries. The average salary level in Belgium is significantly higher than in Greece, which allows for financial stability and a better quality of life.
• Living conditions. The country offers comfortable living conditions, including accessible medical care, developed transport infrastructure and a safe social environment.
• Education and prospects for families. The education system in Belgium is considered one of the best in Europe, which is especially important for families with children.
• International environment. The country is easy to adapt to thanks to its multicultural society and the widespread use of English.

According to official figures, around 7,000 Greek citizens moved to Belgium in 2024, indicating growing interest in the country. Most of them find work in major cities such as Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent. Many Greeks also move to Belgium for education or family reasons. These figures confirm that the country remains one of the most popular destinations for emigration.

Visit the Royal Museum of the Army and Military History of Belgium in Brussels.

Tip: Before moving, carefully study the peculiarities of the tax system in Belgium to avoid financial surprises.

Types of visas for residence in the country

The choice of the appropriate visa for residence in Belgium depends on your purposes: work, study, family reunification or other circumstances. For citizens of Greece, as members of the EU, the procedure for processing documents is significantly simplified. However, it is important to study the requirements in advance and prepare all the necessary documents to avoid delays and unpleasant surprises.

Types of visas:

1. Work visas in Belgium
   Intended for employment in the country.
   • Duration: depends on the type of work and contract (usually from 1 year with the possibility of extension).
   • The stages of registration: receiving a job offer, obtaining a work permit, applying for a visa.
   • Extension: possible subject to a valid contract.
2. Study visa
   For studying at universities or educational institutions.
   • Duration: depending on the duration of the course (most often 1 academic year).
   • Stages of registration: enrollment in an educational institution, submission of documents to the consulate, confirmation of financial solvency.
   • Extension: possible subject to continuation of studies.
3. Family Reunification Visa
   For those planning to move to join family members living in Belgium.
   • Validity period: for the duration of the residence permit of the host party.
   • Stages of registration: confirmation of relationship, filing an application, waiting for review.
   • Renewal: Regular confirmation of family status is required.
4. Long-term visa for entrepreneurs
   Suitable for Greeks planning to open a business in Belgium.
   • Validity period: up to 1 year with the possibility of extension.
   • Stages of registration: business registration, proof of capital, submission of documents for a visa.
   • Extension: Dependent on business success.
5. Short-term visa (90 days)
   For temporary stay: tourist trips, business meetings, events.
   • Validity: Maximum 90 days within a 180-day period.
   • Stages of registration: filling out the application form, submitting documents, waiting for confirmation.
   • Extension: not provided.

Obtaining a visa to live in Belgium requires attention and careful preparation of documents. It is important for Greek citizens to consider the application deadlines, as well as the specific requirements for the chosen visa type. Consult a lawyer or the consulate if you are unsure about the application procedure. Advance preparation will help avoid mistakes and unnecessary delays.

Tip: Please note that for EU citizens, including Greece, visa requirements are significantly relaxed, but registration with the local commune is mandatory.

Residence permit for Greeks in Belgium

Obtaining a residence permit in Belgium for Greeks is a key stage of legal residence in the country. A temporary residence permit allows you to stay in the country for a limited period, and a permanent one opens access to broader rights, including the possibility of unlimited stay. The conditions for obtaining them depend on the purpose of the move, the length of stay and compliance with local rules. Let’s look at the main differences and the process of submitting documents that are included in the conditions of immigration for Greeks.

Stages of obtaining a permanent residence permit:

1. Contacting your local municipality (commune):
   • Find the nearest commune to your place of residence.
   • Address : ( example : Rue des Halles 4, 1000 Brussels)
   • Website: www.belgium.be
   • Phone: +32 (0)2 279 22 11
2. Preparation of documents:
   • Valid passport.
   • Current temporary residence permit.
   • Proof of income or employment contract.
   • Medical insurance.
   • Certificate of place of residence.
   • Certificate of no criminal record (not older than 6 months).
3. Payment of duty:
   • Cost: from 200 to 350 euros depending on the region.
4. Applying for a residence permit in Belgium:
   • Visit the commune in person with a prepared package of documents.
5. Waiting for decision:
   • Review time: from 3 to 6 months.

If you have been refused permanent residence, it is important not to despair. Review the reason for the refusal to correct any errors and file an appeal or re-apply. You may also want to seek legal advice to increase your chances of success. Following all requirements and paying attention to detail will be your greatest asset in this process.

How to start working as a dentist in Belgium.

Tip: It is important to register your place of residence within eight days of entering the country.

Registration of citizenship

Obtaining Belgian citizenship for Greek residents is a long but quite feasible process. Citizenship provides significant benefits, including the right to free movement within EU countries and access to social guarantees. However, before starting the process, it is important to familiarize yourself with the conditions and stages in order to prepare everything you need.

Conditions for obtaining citizenship:

• Legal residence in Belgium for at least 5 years.
• Having a steady income that confirms financial stability.
• Knowledge of one of the official languages of Belgium (French, Dutch or German).
• Integration into Belgian society, confirmed by a certificate of completion of an integration course or professional activity.

Stages of obtaining citizenship:

1. Contacting your local municipality (commune/gemeente):
   • Address: Depending on where you live. You can find your local office via www.belgium.be .
   • Telephone: Please call the number listed on the website.
2. Collection of documents:
   • Passport or ID.
   • Proof of legal residence in Belgium.
   • Certificate of language proficiency.
   • Documents confirming financial independence (contract, bank statements).
   • Birth certificate, translated and certified.
3. Submitting an application:
   • Application fee: about 150 euros.
   • Review period: from 6 months to 1 year.

If your application for citizenship has been rejected, you can appeal the decision through the Belgian courts. It is important to address the reasons for the refusal, whether it is a lack of documents or insufficient knowledge of the language, and reapply. With proper preparation, you have every chance of becoming a Belgian citizen. Remember that this process requires patience and attention to detail.

Find out which are the best companies to work for in Belgium.

Tip: The country allows dual citizenship, which allows you to retain Greek citizenship.

Living conditions

Living in Belgium requires a certain budget, as the country is among the most expensive in Europe.

• Housing costs: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment will cost on average between €700 and €1,200, depending on the city. In Brussels, rent is usually higher than in other regions. Utilities (water, electricity, gas) are around €150–200 per month.
• Food: Monthly food costs for one person are around 300–400 euros. Lunch in a mid-range restaurant – 15–20 euros.
• Transport: A monthly public transport pass costs around 50–60 euros.

Renting a home requires a contract and often a deposit of two to three months’ rent. You can find a home through real estate websites, agencies or personal connections.
Buying a property is a popular solution for those planning a long-term stay. Prices vary by region: in Brussels and Antwerp they are significantly higher than in rural areas. The average price of an apartment is from 250,000 euros. The purchase procedure includes registration, notary services and payment of taxes.

Healthcare in Belgium is of a high quality, but is only available with health insurance. All citizens and residents are required to have an insurance policy, which covers most medical expenses.
Basic insurance costs around €100–€150 per month, depending on the insurance company. To receive medical care, you need to see your family doctor (a general visit costs around €25–€30, part of which is reimbursed by insurance).

Belgium is a comfortable country to live in, but it is important to consider the level of expenses and the specifics of the health care system. Good preparation and proper planning will help Greek citizens adapt to the new environment.

New High-Level Committee on Resettlement and Humanitarian Admission in the EU for 2026-2027.

Interesting fact: According to recent research, Belgians spend around 60% of their monthly income on food and rent in Belgium, making financial planning especially important.

Tips for adaptation

1. Learn the local languages
   Belgium is a multilingual country, with French, Dutch and German spoken. Although English is often spoken, knowing one of the official languages will make communication easier, especially in everyday situations.
2. Get used to the local climate
   Belgium has a humid climate and it rains often. Buy quality rainwear and an umbrella – they will become your faithful companions.
3. Learn more about the local culture
   Respect the traditions and habits of the Belgians. For example, punctuality is very important here, especially at work or in official meetings. This will help you adapt to Belgium.
4. Adapt to the local cuisine
   Try popular dishes such as French fries, waffles and mussels. At the same time, try to find shops that sell Greek products to preserve some of your cultural identity.
5. Prepare all necessary documents in advance
   Make sure you have a residence permit, health insurance and a registered residential address. These documents are required for most official procedures.
6. Use public transport
   Public transport in the country is well developed. A monthly or annual pass is recommended, especially if you plan to travel between cities frequently.
7. Be prepared for bureaucracy
   The procedures for registering, opening a bank account or finding a job can take time. Be patient and clarify all requirements in advance to avoid misunderstandings. This is part of the Belgian culture.
8. Make new friends
   Attend cultural events, Greek communities and language exchanges. Interacting with other people will help you adapt faster and feel comfortable.
9. Follow local laws
   Some things that are common in Greece may be more strictly regulated in the country, such as rules for sorting garbage and keeping quiet in the evening.
10. Explore expat rights and benefits
    The country offers various benefits to expats, such as tax deductions or benefits for families with children. Learn more to take advantage of the opportunities available.

Moving to Belgium for Greeks can be the beginning of a new stage of life full of prospects. Preparation, openness to new things and the ability to combine your own culture with the local one are the key elements for successful adaptation.