Belgium, a charming nation with diverse landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry, offers a warm welcome to newcomers. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant urban scene of Antwerp or the serene beauty of the Ardennes, Belgium holds a unique allure for everyone.
Transitioning to a new country, even one as captivating as Belgium, can be overwhelming. Navigating daily routines and adapting to local customs may pose challenges, especially in those initial weeks. But fear not, for we’ve compiled a list of essential tasks to tackle during your first week in Belgium, ensuring a smooth and successful start to your expat journey.
Join Namaste Belgium Community
Namaste belgium is a community of indian expats staying in belgium. We recommend every one moving new to belgium (from indian origin) to do the following
- Download namaste belgium android/ios app – Search “namaste belgium” on app store or play store.
- Register for whatsapp community : largest whatsapp community in belgium
Finding an rental accommodation in Belgium
Upon arrival in Belgium, securing a comfortable living space is a top priority. While some fortunate expats may have their accommodations prearranged by employers, most newcomers embark on a quest to find their own housing.
We assume you are already staying in a temporary accommodation (serviced apartment or airbnb or hotel). To find a perfect rental accommodation go through the details given Ultimate Guide to Finding a Rental Home in Belgium or continue staying in a serviced apartment . Best source to look for apartment is via immoweb.be or by posting requiremnts on the namaste whatsapp community of indian expats in belgium.
Register with Municipality/Commune
Belgium, like many European countries, mandates that foreign nationals residing in the country for over three months register with their local municipality. Within eight days of arrival (this is flexible and you should go when you have your lease document ready) , you must report to your municipality (maison communale/gemeentehuis), initiating the registration process that officially records you on the Foreigner Register. This step is essential for obtaining a Belgian residency permit and a national ID number, which serves multiple purposes.
While the registration procedure is generally standardized across Belgium, some municipalities may be more accustomed to handling foreign residents than others. The specific requirements may vary depending on your country of origin, but typically, you’ll need to provide:
- Valid identification (passport or ID card)
- Proof of accommodation (e.g., lease agreement)
- Employment contract (if applicable)
- Visa documentation (if required)
Approximately two weeks after registering, police officers will visit your provided address to verify your residency. It’s important to remember that any subsequent changes of address must also be reported to the municipality.
Sign up for health insurance
If you’re an expat intending to reside in Belgium beyond a few months, acquiring health insurance becomes a mandatory step upon arrival. Generally, this entails enrolling in the Belgian national health insurance system or demonstrating proof of private health coverage.
- if you are coming not on fixed job contract you will not need to enroll in public insurance (mutuality)
- In all other cases you need to get yourself associated with a public health insurance provider (mutuality). Popular ones are pertenamut and CM. More details – Belgium Mandatory Medical Insurance
Open a bank account
Having a Belgian bank account streamlines various aspects of your life, from setting up essential utilities like electricity and internet to enjoying everyday activities such as grocery shopping or dining out.
Banking in Belgium for Indian Expats
For a swift and convenient account opening process, consider visiting a bank branch in person, though be prepared to communicate in either Dutch or French. Alternatively, mobile banking solutions like N26 often provide user-friendly signup processes tailored for expats.
If you need to transfer funds from your existing accounts abroad, international money transfer platforms like CurrencyFair and Wise offer competitive exchange rates and secure transactions.
Get a sim card
When you are settling into your new life, a Belgian SIM card can significantly enhance your experience.This is especially crucial if you’re arriving from outside the EU and don’t benefit from free roaming. With a local SIM card, you’ll enjoy affordable communication and seamless access to mobile data, making it easier to navigate your new surroundings and stay connected with the world.
In Belgium, acquiring a SIM card and a local phone number is a straightforward process, with two primary options available: prepaid SIM cards and mobile contracts. More details Choosing a Mobile Service Provider/SIM
Figure out public transportation
During your initial week in Belgium, you’ll quickly need to familiarize yourself with the various transportation options available, whether you’re exploring bustling cities or venturing into the scenic countryside. Fortunately, this compact country offers a diverse range of choices.
In urban areas, public transportation is readily accessible and efficient, with buses, trams, and metro systems connecting major cities. Cycling is also a popular and eco-friendly mode of transport, with some cities boasting extensive cycle networks and bike hire schemes.
For those residing in rural areas or requiring more flexibility, owning a car might be the preferred option. Newcomers from EU/EEA countries can use their existing licenses in Belgium, but if you plan to stay long-term, it’s advisable to exchange your license for a Belgian one after receiving your ID card. For detailed instructions on acquiring a Belgian driving license, refer to our comprehensive guide.
Whether you choose to traverse Belgium by public transport, bicycle, or car, the country’s well-developed infrastructure ensures convenient and accessible travel.
Enroll kids in school
Relocating with school-age children adds an extra layer of complexity to your move to Belgium. However, with a bit of pre-planning and research on the Belgian education system, you can make the transition smoother for your family.
If enrolling your children in a local public school is the preferred option, be sure to contact your municipality during your first week in Belgium. This choice is often the most affordable and accessible for many expats, and it provides a valuable opportunity for your children to immerse themselves in Belgian culture and language.
Alternatively, numerous international schools in Belgium offer globally recognized curricula, such as the International GCSEs and International Baccalaureate programs, which might be a more suitable choice for some families.