Living and working in Belgium

21 February 2025

Official language in Belgium

Belgium borders France and Luxembourg to the south, Germany to the east and the Netherlands to the north, so the country is regionally divided into three official languages: French, Dutch and German. Interestingly, most Belgians are bilingual (French+Flemish). The Belgian education system ensures that residents can learn both languages from an early age.

Dutch (Flemish) - The Flemish are the inhabitants of the northern part of Belgium. They are the most numerous group in Belgium. Almost 60% of the country's population speaks Flemish, which is almost the same as the Dutch spoken in the Netherlands. Admittedly, there are some differences in pronunciation, vocabulary and some sentences, but people who know Dutch will easily communicate with Flemish.

French - French-speaking Belgians live mainly in the southern part of Belgium - Wallonia and Brussels. They make up around 40% of the country's population, so French is the second most spoken language in Belgium.

German - The least popular language among Belgians. You will mainly encounter it in the eastern part of the country near the German border, most often in the province of Liège. This group makes up less than 1% of the population.

How much are salaries in Belgium?

This is a question that people planning to move to Belgium often ask themselves. Earnings in Belgium are on average around €4748.00 per month, but they vary according to sector, location and experience. Workers here can also count on bonuses: 13th salary or bonuses. Earnings in Belgium are consistently raised by the government and trade unions. In 2022, full-time employees will receive an average gross salary of € 4076.00 per month (according to the Belgian Statistical Office).

How much is the minimum wage in Belgium?

The minimum wage in Belgium is one of the highest in Europe and is €2070.48 per month as of 1 January 2025.

Belgian healthcare

Belgium's health service is regarded as one of the best in the European Union. Residents can benefit from modern hospitals, qualified medical assistance and fast appointments. Compulsory health insurance covers a significant proportion of medical costs.

Belgian tax system

The Belgian tax system is notorious for its high levels of income taxation, but in return offers extensive social benefits and tax breaks.

Why are taxes in Belgium so expensive? One reason is that Belgium has a long-standing emphasis on public services and the welfare system, which contributes to a higher tax burden. In addition, Belgium has a so-called progressive tax system (the higher the income, the higher the tax rate).

Tax for immigrants living in Belgium

Once you have been resident for more than six months, you become a tax resident in Belgium and pay taxes on all income. If you stay for less than 183 days, you only pay tax on Belgian income, which is 7%.

Family allowance in Belgium

Family allowance in Belgium is available to any family with children, and the amount depends on the region and economic situation. Belgium also offers a maternity allowance, which guarantees women the possibility of longer leave and financial support after the birth of a child.

Registration obligation

Belgium offers the possibility for European Union citizens to stay for 90 days without a registration obligation. If you move permanently, you must comply with the registration obligation within 10 days of arrival.

You must also apply for a temporary residence permit in the country. To be able to stay in Belgium for more than 3 months, you must have sufficient means of subsistence and up-to-date health insurance, and you must meet one of the conditions:

• have a legal employment contract or run your own business
• actively seek work
• study in Belgium and have valid health insurance.

The best place to live in Belgium

Brussels is often mentioned as the best city for visitors. The advantages of living here are:

• The widespread knowledge of English in this region of Belgium
• International atmosphere
• Best healthcare
• Picturesque landscapes
• Numerous attractions, recreational areas and parks
• Rich culinary offer
  

Belgian regulations and labour laws

Belgium is very committed to stable and safe working conditions. Belgian legislation protects both employees and employers, and the Labour Code transparently defines the rights and obligations of both parties.

The employer is obliged to provide the employee with appropriate employment conditions, to respect the agreed working hours and to pay a salary in line with the regulations, while the employee is entitled to holidays, social protection and a salary with fair conditions. The labour inspectorate strongly controls compliance with the Labour Code regulations.

Trade unions in Belgium

As in the Netherlands, Belgium has so-called syndicats de travailleurs, or trade unions, which protect the rights of workers and help negotiate with employers.

Limosa system

Limosa is a registration system for workers posted to Belgium. Employers are obliged to register their employees in the system to demonstrate fairness and compliance with Belgian labour regulations.

Job market in Belgium

There is a huge demand for specialists in various fields in the Belgian labour market. Projections by the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training indicate that by 2030, there will be nearly 2,754,300 jobs on the Belgian labour market. 

Transport and Logistics jobs in Belgium

Transport and logistics in Belgium are sectors that are growing at an incredibly fast pace. With the country lying on one of Europe's most important transit routes, thousands of trucks carry goods across Germany, France, the Netherlands and the UK every day, and transport and logistics companies need workers to help deliver loads efficiently and on time. One of the largest ports in Europe (the port of Antwerp) also generates a significant demand for workers. 

Can you find a job in Belgium only speaking English?

Knowing languages at work in the Belgian workplace is very important so that you can carry out your duties efficiently and communicate with other employees. Most Belgians can converse very well in English, so knowing English is enough to start with, but it is also good to learn one of the official languages of Belgium. This will not only help you at work, but also in everyday life: dealing with formalities or meeting people.

Wages for truck drivers in Belgium

Earnings in Belgium are on average € 14-15 per hour as a national driver and around € 15-16 as an international driver. However, the exact salary amounts depend on the location and experience of the candidate. Workers can also count on salary supplements. 

What is the minimum wage in Belgium?

The minimum wage in Belgium is one of the highest in Europe and is €2070.48 per month as of 1 January 2025 (data from the Brussels Regional Public Service).

Job opportunities in Belgium

Are you looking for a job in Belgium? Check out the available job offers at 24/7 drive!

We support our candidates with all formalities, such as obtaining a work permit or registering a temporary residence with the authorities. Our recruitment supervisors also help with relocation and finding a job that matches your expectations.

Is Belgium a good country to live in?

In summary, Belgium offers high wages and a good quality of life, but it also comes with burdensome taxes and costs. In return, residents receive high-quality healthcare, social benefits and secure working conditions. Above all, Belgium is a country that offers security and financial stability, and moving here could prove to be a profitable decision.