How to move from the US to Belgium: A plan for a new beginning

Moving from the US to Belgium is a chance to start a new life in Europe with a rich history and high standards of living. Belgium attracts immigrants with its cultural diversity, unique architecture and stable economy. However, the adaptation process can be difficult if you do not understand the key points in advance. In this guide, we will tell you how to properly prepare for the move and avoid the main mistakes.

Advantages and disadvantages of living in Belgium

Moving to Belgium from the United States can be a step toward a new life in Europe. Situated in the heart of the continent, the country combines a rich history, cultural diversity, and a stable economy. Belgium’s economic fortunes remain strong thanks to its growing industrial and service sectors. For those considering emigrating to the country, it’s important to understand both the benefits and drawbacks of life there to prepare for potential difficulties in adjusting.

Advantages:

• High standard of living: Belgium has a high standard of living, access to quality healthcare and a stable job market, making life here attractive for immigrants.
• Developed healthcare and social protection system: Belgium is known for its healthcare system, which provides quality medical care. In addition, there are good social guarantees, which is important for families.
• Education and Career Opportunities: The country offers top-notch education and career opportunities in a variety of industries, making the country attractive to professionals from around the world, including those choosing to relocate from the United States.
• Geographic location: Belgium is a key country in Europe with easy access to neighboring countries, which opens up excellent opportunities for travel and business throughout Europe.

Flaws:

• Language barriers: There are three official languages spoken here – French, Dutch and German. It is important to master at least one of them to successfully integrate into society, especially if you plan to work in Belgium.
• Bureaucratic Complexity: Immigration to Belgium for US residents can be time-consuming and difficult due to the complex bureaucratic system, which can be a hurdle for those who are not prepared for lengthy paperwork processes.
• Taxes and Cost of Living: The cost of living is high, especially in large cities like Brussels. Taxation can also be an unexpected challenge for those just starting to learn about the tax system.

For 2024, immigration to Belgium from the United States continues to grow, and statistics show an increase in the number of people who decide to move to this country. This is due to improved economic conditions, higher wages and educational opportunities. The trend continues to be positive, making moving to Belgium from the United States increasingly attractive for those looking for new horizons.

Find out how to get a work visa to Belgium in this article.

Important:

For successful adaptation, it is important to learn local languages; this will help you settle in faster and find a job.

Visa and immigration requirements

For US residents planning to move to Belgium, an important step will be to comply with visa and immigration requirements. The European Union has strict rules for citizens of countries outside the EU, and the US is no exception. These requirements may vary depending on the purpose of the move – work, study, or family reunification. Understanding these procedures will help you avoid mistakes and simplify the process of immigration to Belgium.

Visa and immigration requirements for US residents moving to Belgium:

• Visa type. Depending on the purpose of the move, you need to choose the appropriate visa type – work, study, tourist or family reunification visa.
• Documents: The basic documents for applying for a visa include a passport, photo, proof of financial means and health insurance.
• Application deadlines: Visa applications should be submitted well in advance, usually 2-3 months before the intended date of relocation.
• Work permit: To obtain a work permit in Belgium, you must obtain a work visa or work permit, which usually requires a sponsor in the country.
• Accommodation and registration. Once you arrive in Belgium, it is important to register with the local authorities and obtain a residence permit.
• Family visa. To reunite with your family, you must prove that your financial situation allows you to provide for the needs of your relatives.

Often, when applying for a visa, U.S. citizens make mistakes in filling out documents or do not take into account all the requirements for work and residence permits. These errors can delay the process and lead to visa denial. Therefore, it is important to prepare carefully and consult with an immigration attorney.

Details about salaries in the country are described in this article.

Advice:

Preparing all documents in advance and following instructions precisely will help avoid visa refusal and speed up the immigration process.

Ways to immigrate to Belgium

There are several ways for US citizens to immigrate to Belgium, each depending on the purpose of the move. Whether it is work, study, family reunification or another option, the process requires compliance with a number of formalities. Choosing the right immigration method and preparing in advance will make the transition to life in Belgium much easier.

Employment for US residents

For US citizens, finding employment in Belgium can be an important step towards successful immigration. First, you need to determine the type of work that suits you, and then familiarize yourself with the document requirements and application process. Knowing how to navigate the local employment system will help you find the right job faster. This is important when immigrating to Belgium from the US.

Stages of employment in Belgium for US residents.

1. Preparation of documents:

• passport with a valid visa
• work permit issued through a sponsor
• CV and cover letter in English and, if possible, in one of the official languages of Belgium (French, Dutch or German)

1. Search for vacancies:

• use the sites: VDAB (vdab.be), Actiris (actiris.brussels), Forem (leforem.be), EURES (eures.europa.eu)
• contact local recruitment agencies such as Randstad or Adecco
• Browse international platforms such as LinkedIn and Glassdoor

1. Submitting an application:

• check the employer’s requirements and send documents in the format specified in the vacancy
• The cost of recruiting agency services can vary from free to several hundred euros, depending on the complexity of the search

1. Waiting for response:

• The application review process usually takes between 1 and 4 weeks
• If you have not received an invitation for an interview, check the status of your application with your employer.

1. Conclusion of an employment contract:

• Once the employer has approved, clarify the details of the contract, including salary, working conditions, and start dates.

Finding a job in Belgium for US residents requires time, patience and attention to detail. Regular monitoring of vacancies, a competent resume and using all available resources will help you find a suitable job. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the cultural features of the Belgian labor market in advance. This will help a US resident obtain citizenship in Belgium.

Find out more about British schools in Brussels.

Advice:

Contacting local employment services such as VDAB or Actiris is often free and can help you find jobs that match your skills.

Study in Belgium for Americans

Applying to a Belgian university or college for US citizens can be an exciting step towards international education. The first steps include choosing an institution, submitting an application, and collecting the necessary documents. It is important to carefully study the requirements of each university to avoid making mistakes during the application process.

Steps to Apply for Study for US Citizens

1. Choosing a school: Check out university websites such as KU Leuven, Ghent University or Université catholic de Louvain.
2. Collection of documents:
   • Foreign passport
   • Diploma of education with apostille
   • Proof of language proficiency (English, French or Dutch)
   • Financial proof (bank statement or sponsorship letter)
3. Application: Use the universities’ online platforms or send documents by email
4. Student visa: contact the Belgian consulate (see be.usembassy.gov for contacts and addresses)
5. Cost of services: the fee for submitting documents varies from 50 to 200 euros, the cost of a visa is about 180 euros
6. Waiting time: Applying to university can take up to two months, and processing a visa can take up to three months

American students in Belgium often have to deal with language and cultural barriers. To make the adjustment easier, it is important to attend language courses, actively participate in student activities, and get acquainted with local traditions. This will help you get used to life in a new country faster and create useful connections.

How to obtain permanent resident status in Belgium.

Advice:

Many Belgian universities offer programs in English, making studies more accessible for American students.

Business immigration

For Americans planning business immigration to Belgium, it is important to understand the basic steps required to set up a business in the country. The country offers favorable conditions for entrepreneurs, but the process of starting a business requires careful preparation and knowledge of local regulations. From choosing the legal form of the company to obtaining the necessary permits, each step has its own specifics.

Stages of business registration.

1. Selecting the legal form of the company: private enterprise, limited liability company or other.
2. Collection of documents: passport, business plan, certificate of financial solvency, company charter.
3. Registration at the Enterprise Crossroads Bank: apply online at economie.fgov.be or visit one of the offices in person.
4. Opening a bank account: Company registration documents must be provided.
5. Obtaining licenses and permits: depends on the field of activity.
6. Payment of taxes and social contributions: registration with the tax service and social security funds.

Cost of services:

• Company registration: from 250 to 500 euros.
• Opening a bank account: free or with a minimal fee (depending on the bank).
• Consultation with a lawyer or accountant: 100–200 euros per hour.

Waiting time:

• Company registration: 5-10 business days.
• Opening a bank account: 1-3 days.
• Obtaining licenses: up to 1 month.

The tax system in Belgium is progressive, with tax rates depending on a company’s income. It is important to remember that there is a corporate tax of around 25 percent, as well as VAT if turnover exceeds a certain threshold. Companies are also required to pay social security contributions.

Tip:

There are many government grants and subsidies available in Belgium to support small and medium-sized businesses.

The process of moving to Belgium

Moving from the USA to Belgium requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to organizing the transportation of things. It is important to choose a transport company that will ensure reliable delivery, as well as to study customs regulations in advance. Making a list of necessary things and minimizing the volume of luggage will help make the move more convenient.

Stages of searching for housing for rent and purchase.

1. Set a budget, including possible additional expenses such as utilities and insurance.
2. Check out the listings on real estate websites or through agencies.
3. Check the document requirements for renting or purchasing a home.
4. Arrange inspections of the options you like and check their condition.
5. When renting, carefully read the contract and its terms, including terms and deposits.
6. To purchase a home, consult a notary and ensure that the transaction is legally clear.
7. Once you move in, register with your local authorities.

When moving, it is important to take into account customs restrictions. For example, there are strict rules for alcohol, tobacco products and certain categories of goods. It is better to clarify exact information about permissible volumes and duties in advance to avoid problems at the border.

Advice:

Before shipping electronics from the US, please make sure they are compatible with the voltage and outlets in Belgium.

Cost of living in Belgium

Before moving to Belgium, it is important for US residents to calculate the initial expenses in advance to prepare for their new life. Basic expenses include rent, food, transportation, and health insurance. These costs can vary significantly depending on the region and the level of comfort you choose. Understanding local prices will help you avoid financial surprises.

Living expenses in Belgium (in euros, monthly):

Category	Minimum expenses	Maximum expenses
Accommodation (rent)	600	1500
Nutrition	250	600
Travel (transport)	50	150
Medical insurance	100	250
Public utilities	100	300
Entertainment and leisure	100	400
Education (if paid)	300	1200

To reduce living expenses in Belgium when immigrating from the United States, you can choose housing outside of large cities, use public transport and cook at home. It is also worth paying attention to discounts and benefits that are provided to foreign citizens in some areas. A rational approach to spending will help you save significantly.

Tip:

When purchasing a monthly transport pass, you can save up to 30% compared to single tickets.

Transport system

US residents, accustomed to wide roads and high dependence on a personal car, will have to adapt to the Belgian reality. Compact streets, paid parking and a developed public transport network make life without a car quite convenient. Knowing the local rules and peculiarities will help make the adaptation process easier.

Features of the transport system:

1. Buying a car:

• To purchase a car in Belgium you will need a driver’s license, a residence permit and proof of financial ability.
• Vehicle registration is mandatory, as is insurance.
• New cars are often more expensive than in the US, and gas prices are significantly higher.

1. Car rental:

• An International Driving Permit and a credit card are required to rent.
• Most cars have a manual transmission, which can be unusual.
• Parking is paid, especially in large cities.

1. Travel documents for public transport:

• Belgium has a single ticket system for trains, buses and trams.
• Tickets can be purchased online, at terminals at stations or from the driver, but in the latter case they are more expensive.
• The travel ticket must be validated before the start of the journey.

Parking in Belgium is often difficult, especially in older city areas with narrow streets. Most parking is paid, and the cost varies depending on the zone. Violating parking rules leads to fines, so it is important to pay attention to road signs.

Interesting fact:

The railway network in Belgium is one of the densest in Europe, so traveling between cities is more cost-effective and faster by train.

FAQ, tips for moving from the USA to Belgium

Here are some helpful tips for moving from the USA to Belgium:

1. Review visa requirements. Before moving, it is important to carefully research all visa requirements, including the possibility of obtaining a work or study permit, depending on the purpose of the move.
2. Register with local authorities. After arrival, be sure to register with local authorities to obtain a residence permit and other necessary documents.
3. Plan your financial matters. Make sure you have enough funds to cover all moving expenses, including rent, transportation, etc. Open a Belgian bank account for convenience.
4. Familiarize yourself with the tax system. Belgium has a special tax system, and it is important to understand how it works to avoid unpleasant surprises. Consultation with a tax professional may be necessary.
5. Prepare the documents. Make sure that all documents (passports, birth certificates, medical certificates) are translated into the required language and certified if necessary.
6. Understanding of culture and language. Belgians speak several languages, including French, Dutch and German, depending on the region. Understanding at least one of these languages is a big plus.
7. Look for housing early, as the real estate market can be competitive. Consider location, transportation links, and accessibility to necessary amenities.
8. Medical insurance. You will need health insurance to live in Belgium. Make sure you get a policy that covers all your essential medical expenses.
9. Transport system. Belgium has a well-developed transport network, including buses, trains and trams. If you do not want to buy a car, public transport is a convenient and affordable option.
10. Adapting to the climate. The climate in Belgium can be rainy and cold, especially in winter. Prepare for changes in weather and provide yourself with appropriate clothing.
11. Opening a bank account. After moving, open a bank account in Belgium to make it easier to manage your finances and receive your salary.
12. Budgeting: The cost of living in Belgium can be higher than in some parts of the United States. This includes housing, food, transportation, and healthcare, so it’s a good idea to budget ahead and account for all possible expenses.
13. Use online resources. The internet is well developed in Belgium, and you can find a lot of information about local services, public transport and laws through official websites and social networks.
14. Study and work. If you plan to work or study, find out in advance the requirements for employment or admission to educational institutions.