Removals to Belgium

Yes, UK citizens can move to Belgium post-Brexit, but they are now considered “third-country nationals” and require a visa.

• Short-term (Schengen Visa): A short-stay Schengen visa (C visa) allows UK citizens to stay in Belgium and the Schengen area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without work. If holding a Schengen visa from another state, the same 90-day limit applies.
• Long-term Visa (D Visa): For stays longer than 90 days, a long-term visa is necessary. This allows residency for three to six months, after which individuals can apply for a residence permit for permanent residency in Belgium.

Moving to Belgium can be costly, as it has a relatively high cost of living. For a family of four residing in a three-bedroom apartment in the city center, the estimated monthly expenses are around €4,075. However, this higher cost is often offset by competitive salaries and a high standard of living.

No, Belgium is not expected to change the 90-day rule, which allows non-EU nationals to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Travellers must leave for three months before returning. However, a new Entry/Exit System (EES) will be implemented on November 10, 2024. This electronic system will replace physical passport stamping and require non-EU nationals to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images, when entering the Schengen area.

Yes, British citizens can retire to Belgium, but the process is more complex than for EU/EEA citizens. Here are the key steps:

• Apply for a Visa: You need to apply for a type D (long-stay) visa at your local Belgian consulate.
• Provide Documentation: Required documents include a medical certificate, proof of funds, a judicial record check, character references, and proof of visa payment.
• Demonstrate Financial Support: You must show that you can support yourself without working, using bank statements, pension statements, or proof of income from real estate.
• Consider Pension Options: You can claim your UK State Pension, any Belgian pension from prior work, or pensions from other EU countries. Be mindful of the tax implications of relocating.

For more detailed guidance, consider consulting a specialist adviser or the relevant government authority.

Overall, living in Belgium is generally cheaper than in the UK, but there are several factors to consider:

• Cost of Living: In 2023, Brussels’ cost of living was 34.9% lower than London, but Belgium is not considered inexpensive overall.
• Rent: Property rental prices in Belgium are about 27.4% lower than in the UK.
• Groceries: Grocery prices in Belgium are 12.9% higher than in the UK.
• Restaurants: Dining out in Belgium is approximately 1.3% more expensive than in the UK.
• Taxes: Belgium has high income tax rates, ranging from 25% to 50%.
• Tuition Fees: Tuition in Belgium is generally lower than in the UK, especially for non-EU students.
• Location Variability: The cost of living varies within Belgium; major cities like Brussels have higher living costs compared to smaller cities, with Wallonia being the most affordable.

Additionally, the UK and Belgium have a double taxation agreement, preventing tax on the same income in both countries.

Yes, you can bring your pets to Belgium, but certain requirements must be met:

• Identification: Pets must have an implanted microchip that complies with ISO standard 11784 or 11785. The microchip number must be documented. If your pet has a legible tattoo as identification from before July 3, 2011, a microchip is not necessary.
• Rabies Vaccination: Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies, with the vaccination being at least 21 days old but less than one year old. The validity period should be noted in the pet’s passport.
• Age Restrictions: Kittens, puppies, and baby ferrets must be at least 15 weeks old to be imported.
• Documentation: Bring documents including an EU pet passport or EU health certificate, an owner’s declaration and a special certificate if traveling commercially with pets

If traveling commercially, pets can only enter Belgium through customs.

Yes, if you live in Belgium, you will have tax obligations, but the UK has a double taxation agreement with Belgium, ensuring you won’t pay tax on the same income in both countries. It’s advisable to consult the relevant tax authority regarding double taxation relief and seek professional advice on your tax situation in Belgium.

In Belgium, National Insurance-type contributions are referred to as “social security contributions” (SSC). If you plan to work in Belgium, even for a UK-based company, you and your employer may need to pay these contributions, which will provide you with benefits like healthcare.