Facts About Belgium

Moving to Belgium offers people a chance to experience one of the most interesting cultures in the world, whilst also very rarely having a language barrier ever becoming an issue as many Belgians are bi- or tri-lingual.

The Belgians are extremely passionate about food and drink. Not only did they make some of the most important advancements in the making and designing of chocolates (yes, you have them to thank for that!), but they also gave the world waffles, and more surprisingly French fries. They also have a surprisingly low number of fast food restaurants, much preferring ‘real’ food. They also love their beers, drinking more per year than most other countries and having over 800 different beers made there alone.

Moving to Belgium is not just for those interested in cuisine though. Moving to France offers similar levels of gastronomical delights and moving to France is often favoured by many who are unfamiliar with the rich culture of Belgium. However, Belgium has a very liberal nature and is very much focussed on equality and fairness, being one of the first countries to legalise things were once quite controversial ideas. They were also the first country to produce newspapers and, surprisingly, a Belgian founded the Holy Roman Empire.

However, whilst it is the culture and great standard of living that may attract people to the country, there is one other interesting fact that is worth knowing about this somewhat enigmatic country: The Belgian motorway system is the only man-made structure visible from the moon. Not even the Great Wall of China gets that accolade.

Moving to Belgium Let the Experts Help You

Moving home can be a traumatic experience at the best of times, but when you are moving abroad the stress and trauma involved can be magnified many times over. If you are moving to Belgium there are some things you should be aware of before you organise your belongings to be transported across the North Sea. Although we have been members of the European Union since 1973, moving to Belgium – or moving to Germany and any other EU country – is not as straight forward as it could be, especially if you are living in Britain but you are not a UK passport holder. For example, when you are moving to Belgium you should know that for all visits of longer than 90 days a visa is required for non-EU citizens.

With the exception of Cyprus and Malta, nationals of the new European Union Member States are currently subject to transition arrangements which remain in place for two years and require a long-stay visa for those who are moving to Belgium. However, if you are self-employed you will be exempt from the visa requirement.

Now we have cleared up the boring bit about moving to Belgium, it’s time to start planning the logistics involved in getting your furniture moved. Of course, you could do it yourself by hiring a lorry, but why add to the stress by doing this? Get in touch with the people at Europemove.com and they will take care of everything for you, which means you will be free to concentrate on your new life.

Moving to Belgium to Improve Sporting Prowess

There are many reasons why Britons are planning on moving to Belgium, most of them connected with work. However, there is a small group of young athletes who are moving to Belgium to pursue their aims of racing with the best cyclists in the world. Belgium has long been seen as the place to go to hone the skills which are necessary of you want to reach the top ranks of the professional cycling scene. Even if you are connected with cycling and you are moving to Belgium, it won’t be long before you realise that cycling comes second only to football in terms of popularity among Belgian people, which is why there is a growing number of young Brits who want to get involved.

Between February and November just about every town and village in the country will host a bike race which will attract more than 200 competitors. With lucrative prize lists and a fantastic atmosphere – enhanced by the carnival which usually accompanies these races – it soon becomes clear why Belgium is the place to be for aspiring racing cyclists. Of course, many young British riders come to the conclusion that moving to France or moving to Holland will help them reach the top of the sport, but over the last sixty years Belgium has been at the top of the list for young Brits. If you are planning to join them, make sure that your furniture and belongings – especially those valuable bikes! – are entrusted to the experts at European Removal Experts.

How European Removal Experts Can Help You

If you’re thinking of moving to Belgium, Holland or indeed anywhere else on the continent, you’re going to need a bit of a helping hand. No matter how much you may want to there’s no way you’ll be able to do absolutely everything on your own, and that’s when European Removal Experts can help.

Here at European Removal Experts, we’re specialists in helping people to relocate to the continent whether they’re moving to Belgium, France or just about anywhere else. We’re efficient, affordable and reliable and can offer every removals service necessary whether you want a few boxes moved or the contents of an entire house. We can even offer storage, so no matter what you need we’ll have it covered.

We’re a London-based company so can easily get to wherever you are in the UK, and can offer a bespoke door to door service so there’s absolutely no hassle on your part. We deal with customs, clearance and the logistics of actually getting your stuff over there, so all you have to do is sit back and wait for everything to be delivered to your new home.

So, whether you’re moving to Belgium, Holland, Switzerland or indeed anywhere else in Europe, here at European Removal Experts we’ll be able to help. We can get your possessions to you safely and efficiently so you don’t have to worry about a thing, so if you’re thinking of moving to Belgium make sure to contact us so we can get you on your way.

Belgium – Truly Cosmopolitan

Europe is a world leader for its cultural diversity, and this is in part thanks to a long history of immigration between nations; however, some parts of Europe are particularly cosmopolitan – and a nation such as Belgium is uniquely so, thanks to its rich diversity of cultures and languages.

One of the reasons why Belgium is so culturally rich is due to the diversity of official languages, and associated cultural input. Anyone moving to Belgium will immediately notice that there is no single dominant language and Dutch, French and German are spoken and taught in schools as official languages.

To confound the matter there are also loads of minority languages spoken there as well, including “Walloon“ and even Yiddish. This prevalence of diverse languages in the nation might seem daunting to anyone moving to Belgium from the UK, maybe with nothing more than a bit of GCSE French to go on, however, instead, it should comfort the British emigre that Belgium is so welcoming of immigrants to the nation.

As well as a diversity of languages, Belgium enjoys a truly unique culture; and the cuisine of Belgium, for example, greatly benefits from a variety of cultural influences; and in particular there is a strong influence from French cooking styles – which can only be a good thing!

So, whilst Belgium mightn’t be the top of your list for European destinations, moving to Belgium could be the portal onto a truly satisfying life – amongst one of the most special and diverse cultures on the planet!

Trust the Professionals to Make Moving to Belgium a Breeze

If you’re thinking of moving to Belgium, you’re probably also thinking about the logistics. For many people the thought of all the organization involved can put a serious strain on what should be an enjoyable experience, and that’s why you need to be prepared to trust the experts.

It’s essential that you’re in touch with professionals at every step of the way. You need to be able to consult reputable estate agents while you’re searching for your new home, and you’ll also need to make sure you’ve got great solicitors on both sides of the channel. The process of house buying and selling is going to be different in Belgium than in the UK, so it’s important that you’ve got people you can trust to put your interests first.

Then you’ll need to sort out the legality of moving abroad in the first place, and getting a visa is sure to be at the top of the agenda. Again, you’ll need expert advice on your side so you know exactly what you have to do and the deadlines that everything has to be done by, as you don’t want to be moving to Belgium without everything being sorted.

Moving to Belgium will of course mean that you need to get your possessions over there with you in good time. There’s no way you’ll be able to move everything on your own, particularly if you’ve got a whole house-load to move, so you’ll need to consult professional removals services as well.

So, you really do need to trust the professionals when moving to Belgium. Doing so will make the whole process far easier, so come to us at European Removal Experts and let us take one thing off your mind.

A Few Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Belgium

Moving to Belgium: Why This Overlooked Destination Might Be Perfect for You

When planning to emigrate from the UK, Belgium might not immediately come to mind as your destination of choice. However, this charming and dynamic country, located at the crossroads of Europe, offers a wealth of opportunities and unique experiences. From its rich cultural heritage to its exceptional quality of life, moving to Belgium could be one of the best decisions you ever make.

If you’re considering relocating to Belgium, or even if it’s not yet on your radar, here’s a comprehensive guide highlighting why this small but mighty nation deserves your attention.

Why Belgium Should Be on Your Relocation Radar

1. A Beer Lover’s Paradise

Belgium is synonymous with exceptional beer. With over 800 different varieties, the country boasts a brewing heritage that is both historic and innovative. From Trappist ales crafted by monks to fruity lambics and complex saisons, there’s something for every palate.

For beer enthusiasts, moving to Belgium is akin to relocating to heaven on earth. Towns like Bruges and Ghent often host beer festivals, and pubs across the country serve brews with a level of reverence that reflects their cultural importance.

2. The Chocolate Capital of the World

Belgium’s reputation for fine chocolate is world-renowned. Belgian chocolatiers, such as Neuhaus, Godiva, and Leonidas, have set the gold standard in confectionery. Relocating to Belgium means indulging in a treat every time you walk past a chocolate shop—an experience that never gets old.

3. Cultural and Historical Richness

Belgium might be small in size, but it has a rich history and cultural significance that rivals much larger nations.

The city of Huy, for instance, was granted a charter of rights in 1066, making it the oldest free city in Europe.
Belgium is home to stunning medieval architecture, museums housing works by Rubens and Magritte, and UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Grand Place in Brussels.

Every city and town in Belgium has its own unique charm, from the cobblestone streets of Bruges to the Art Nouveau facades in Brussels.

Practical Benefits of Moving to Belgium

1. A Warm Welcome

Belgium is renowned for its inclusive and welcoming culture. Approximately 15% of the population consists of immigrants, making it one of the most diverse countries in Europe. Belgium also grants more new citizenships annually than almost any other country in the world, second only to Canada.

This openness ensures that when you move to Belgium, you’ll feel at home among a population that values multiculturalism and diversity.

2. Central Location in Europe

Belgium is often called the heart of Europe due to its strategic location. Living in Belgium puts you just a few hours away from major European cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and London. With an extensive train network and well-connected airports, travel becomes effortless.

For professionals, Belgium’s central location is ideal for business, with many international organizations and companies, including the EU headquarters, based in Brussels.

3. Excellent Quality of Life

Belgium offers a high standard of living, combining affordability with exceptional infrastructure:

Healthcare: Belgium’s healthcare system is consistently ranked among the best in Europe.
Education: The country provides excellent educational opportunities, including international schools.
Public Transport: Efficient and reliable trains, trams, and buses make commuting a breeze.

Things to Know Before Moving to Belgium

1. Languages and Regions

Belgium is a multilingual country with three official languages:

Dutch (spoken in Flanders).
French (spoken in Wallonia).
German (spoken in a small eastern region).

Brussels, the capital, is officially bilingual (Dutch and French) and widely English-speaking. Familiarizing yourself with the local language of your region will help you integrate more easily.

2. Housing Market

Belgium offers a range of housing options, from chic city apartments to charming countryside homes. Renting is common for newcomers, allowing you to explore different regions before making a long-term commitment. The property market is stable, with prices often more affordable than in neighboring countries.

3. Taxes and Social Contributions

Belgium has a relatively high tax rate, but it’s balanced by comprehensive public services. Be prepared to navigate the tax system, and consider consulting a financial advisor to ensure compliance.

Why Choose European Removal Experts for Your Move to Belgium?

Relocating to Belgium, whether for work, family, or a change of scenery, can be a daunting process. This is where European Removal Experts steps in. We specialize in seamless, stress-free removals to Belgium, offering:

Door-to-Door Service: Whether you’re moving to Antwerp, Brussels, or a remote village, we handle every detail.
Flexible Options: Choose between part-load or full-load removals based on your needs.
Expertise: With years of experience, we ensure your belongings are transported safely and efficiently.

Whether you’re moving permanently or simply need assistance with a large delivery, our team is ready to help.

Exploring Life in Belgium: What Awaits You?

1. Festivals and Events

Belgium is known for its lively calendar of events. From the Tomorrowland music festival to the quirky Binche Carnival, there’s always something happening.

2. Gastronomy Beyond Beer and Chocolate

Belgium is home to Michelin-starred restaurants, hearty stews like carbonade flamande, and, of course, Belgian waffles. Moving to Belgium will undoubtedly expand your culinary horizons.

3. A Love for Cycling

Belgium is a cycling enthusiast’s dream. With scenic bike paths, an active cycling culture, and a deep love for the sport, it’s a great place for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts: Why Belgium Is Worth Considering

Moving to Belgium might not have been your first thought, but it could turn out to be the perfect destination for you. With its vibrant culture, welcoming atmosphere, and exceptional quality of life, Belgium offers a unique opportunity to embrace a new lifestyle.

At European Removal Experts, we’re here to make your transition to Belgium effortless. Whether you’re relocating your household or arranging a delivery, we handle every detail so you can focus on starting your new chapter.

Contact Us Today!

Ready to make the move? Get in touch with us at European Removal Experts for a free quote and personalized service.

Moving to Belgium
Relocating to Belgium
Belgium relocation services
Living in Belgium
Belgium expat guide
Removals to Belgium
International moving company Belgium
Reasons to move to Belgium

Things to Remember when Emigrating from the UK

At European Removal Experts we recognise that moving home and relocating overseas to countries such as France is one of the most stressful events in anybody’s life, and moving to a whole new country even more so. That is why we always endeavour to offer you removal service that is not only affordable, but which answers your specific requirements – ensuring that the excitement of moving overseas is left undisturbed. However, we are aware that as a removal company, beyond making the removals transition as simple as possible, there is much more to consider that often gets forgotten along the way.

Whether you’re moving to Belgium or moving to Holland, moving to another country is a massive logistical undertaking. Therefore the following advice will only cover the tip of the iceberg, but some important things to remember before hiring a removals company to Holland or Belgium include the following:

Let all of the relevant authorities and organisations you are involved in know about you moving. This will include schools, workplaces and the less obvious organisations, such as the DVLA.
Make sure you have everything in place at your destination. Again, this may seem obvious but you should remember every last detail about your move; from air conditioning in your house to anything that you may need regularly imported.
Try and learn some the lingo. This is not only a simple courtesy, but it will save you a lot of hassle and will protect you if any issues arise.

Remember, it doesn’t matter where your moving to when it comes to the necessary precautions. Whether you’re moving to Holland or moving to Belgium, each country will have their own way of doing things, which is why you should always ensure that you have a good awareness of your destination before embarking.

Moving to Belgium to further your career

The EU has created new jobs in the international market, and none more than its central administrative bases in Belgium – both in Brussels and Strasbourg. Whether you’re an intern working for a few weeks to earn some international experience, or if you’re a fully qualified bilingual worker who is an essential cog in the wheels of the EU or EC, then you’ll need to work out how you’re going to get you and your belongings across to Belgium.

Belgium is quite unique in that it has many long, straight roads, so many people choose to move by car. However it’s a long, tiring and arduous journey if you choose to do this yourself, and you’ll have several borders to cross and customs declarations to complete if you set off from the UK towards your new home .

Removals to Belgium can be made less stressful and more productive if you use a specialist removal company. You can leave at the last minute as your belongings go ahead of you, rather than having a stressful time packing and then launching yourself at a new job.

Another consideration is that most people live in small apartments in Brussels in the main cities, and you may need to scale down your belongings so it all fits. If not, you’ll be paying for storage on top of removals, which only adds to your costs in addition to the fluctuating Euro. At least by using a specialist removal service to Belgium, that’s one piece of the move puzzle already solved for you.

Tips for Moving to Belgium

Moving to Belgium can be an incredible experience, but if you want the whole process to be enjoyable there are a few things you’ll need to remember. So, here are some tips to make moving to Belgium as hassle-free as possible.

1. Plan ahead. This is probably the most important point as you can’t hope to get everything sorted if you leave it until the last minute, so as soon as you’ve decided that you are moving to Belgium, you need to get planning.

2. Get the best exchange rates that you can. You’ll probably have to keep a close eye on your budget when you first move abroad, as high exchange rates can seriously eat into it. Shop around for the best rates, or consult brokers who can help.

3. Get your insurance sorted as early as possible. Insurance is essential when you’re moving abroad, so make sure you have it sorted quickly. Remember that policies could differ abroad, so always do your research.

4. Consult the professionals. You’re always going to need help when you’re moving to Belgium, so make sure to consult solicitors, local authorities and removals services such as European Removal Experts to make sure that everything’s dealt with in good time.

Moving to Belgium, or any European country, will obviously require a company to conduct the removals of your belongings. It is essential to employ the services of a company that is flexible and affordable without compromising on quality, as the transportation of your items forms the backbone of any European relocation project.

European Removal Experts operate during the day, evenings and weekends to offer a service to suit any requirements.