Moving to Belgium

Moving Guide

Your Practical Relocation Guide to Belgium

1. Visa & Residence

Navigating the Belgian immigration system depends primarily on your nationality. For citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland, the process is relatively straightforward, often involving registration with the local commune upon arrival to declare your presence and obtain a residence card.

For non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, a visa will typically be required before entering Belgium, depending on your intended length and purpose of stay. Common routes for obtaining a residence permit include:

• **Work Permit:** This is usually sponsored by a Belgian employer and requires a valid employment contract.
• **Family Reunification:** If you are joining a spouse, parent, or child who is already a legal resident in Belgium.
• **Study Visa:** For those enrolled in an accredited Belgian educational institution.
• **Specific Residence Permits:** For entrepreneurs, researchers, or individuals with sufficient independent means.

It is crucial to verify the exact requirements, necessary documentation, and application procedures with official Belgian immigration authorities or the Belgian embassy/consulate in your country of origin. Requirements can change, so always consult the most current official sources.

2. Housing & Rental

Finding housing in Belgium can be done through various channels. Online property portals are a popular starting point, as are local real estate agencies (immobiliënkantoor in Dutch, agence immobilière in French). Word-of-mouth and social media groups for expats can also yield results, especially for temporary accommodations.

The typical rental process involves:

• **Viewing Properties:** Arrange viewings for suitable properties.
• **Application:** Submit an application, often including proof of income and identity.
• **Lease Agreement:** Once accepted, you will sign a lease agreement (huurcontract / contrat de bail), which is legally binding. Most long-term leases are for 3, 6, or 9 years, with break clauses.
• **Deposit:** A rental deposit is standard, usually equivalent to 2 or 3 months' rent. This is typically held in a blocked bank account (geblokkeerde rekening / compte bloqué) in your name, which you set up with the landlord. The deposit is returned at the end of the tenancy, provided the property is left in good condition.
• **Inventory (plaatsbeschrijving / état des lieux):** A detailed inventory of the property's condition is conducted at the start of the tenancy, often by an independent expert, and again at the end. This document is crucial for determining any damages.

Consider temporary housing (e.g., serviced apartments, short-term rentals) for your initial weeks while you search for a long-term home. This allows you to explore different neighborhoods and avoid rushing into a decision.

3. What Affects the Cost of Your Move

The total cost of your relocation to Belgium is influenced by several key factors:

• **Volume of Goods:** The more items you move, the larger the shipping container or vehicle required, directly impacting the cost.
• **Distance:** The geographical distance between your current location and Belgium is a primary cost driver for transportation.
• **Seasonality:** Moving during peak seasons (e.g., summer months, end-of-year holidays) can sometimes lead to higher prices due to increased demand.
• **Access at Both Ends:** Ease of access at your origin and destination addresses (e.g., narrow streets, stairs, lack of parking) can affect labor time and potentially require specialized equipment, adding to the cost.
• **Extra Services:** Opting for additional services such as professional packing and unpacking, disassembly and reassembly of furniture, storage solutions, or specialized transport for delicate/valuable items will increase the overall price.

For an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs, it is always best to request a free, no-obligation quote.

4. Timeline & Packing Tips

A well-organized move typically spans 4-8 weeks. Here’s a checklist-style guide:

8 Weeks Out:

• **Declutter:** Start decluttering your home. Decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. This reduces your moving volume and cost.
• **Research:** Begin researching neighborhoods in Belgium, schools (if applicable), and healthcare options.
• **Documents:** Gather all essential documents (passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic records, medical records, financial statements). Ensure passports are valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
• **Quotes:** Contact relocation123.com for a free moving quote.

6 Weeks Out:

• **Visa/Residence:** Initiate your visa or residence permit application process if you haven't already.
• **Housing:** Begin actively searching for long-term housing in Belgium.
• **Utilities (Current Home):** Notify current utility providers (electricity, gas, water, internet, phone) of your move-out date.
• **Medical:** Obtain copies of medical records and prescriptions. Arrange for any necessary vaccinations.

4 Weeks Out:

• **Packing:** Start packing non-essential items. Label boxes clearly with contents and the room they belong to.
• **Banking:** Research Belgian banks and consider opening an account remotely if possible, or plan to do so soon after arrival.
• **Insurance:** Check your current insurance policies (health, home, car) and understand what coverage you'll need in Belgium.
• **Forward Mail:** Arrange for mail forwarding from your current address.

2 Weeks Out:

• **Utilities (Belgium):** Arrange for utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) to be connected at your new Belgian address.
• **Confirm:** Confirm travel arrangements, accommodation for your first nights, and moving company details.
• **Essentials Box:** Pack an "essentials" box with items you'll need immediately upon arrival (toiletries, medications, important documents, chargers, a change of clothes).

1 Week Out:

• **Finances:** Ensure you have some local currency and a working credit/debit card for immediate expenses.
• **Clean:** Begin final cleaning of your current home.
• **Final Checks:** Do a final check of all documents and arrangements.

For a smooth and stress-free move, request a free quote on relocation123.com today!

Visas, immigration & documents

Moving to this country often involves visas, residence permits, document translation/legalization and customs paperwork. Our verified partners handle the move itself; for visa or immigration help, send the request below and we'll point you the right way.

• Residence permit / visa (work, study, family)
• Document translation & apostille
• Customs clearance for personal effects
• Travel & goods insurance

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Customs & Import Rules

Moving to Belgium: Your Essential Customs & Import Guide

Relocating to Belgium involves navigating customs regulations to ensure a smooth transition for your personal belongings. This guide provides a clear overview of what you need to know to import your goods efficiently and without unexpected delays.

If you're relocating as a new resident or Belgian national

Bringing your household goods into Belgium as a new resident or returning Belgian national generally allows for duty-free entry. This applies to items you've owned and used for a period before your move.

What you'll need

• A detailed inventory, continuously numbered and signed by you.
• A copy of your passport, including your signature.
• Proof that you lived abroad for the 12 months immediately preceding your arrival or inscription in Belgium.
• A certificate of residence (Model 2 or Belgian ID-card) from the Belgian commune where you will live.
• A customs declaration form, completed and signed by you (available from your Belgian mover).

Good to know

• Your household goods can enter duty-free if the importation occurs within one year of your official change of residence.
• If any required documents are not available at the time of import, you might need to pay a guarantee (bond). This bond typically covers 10% customs duties and 21% VAT.
• The total guaranteed amount will be refunded within six months upon presentation of the original certificate of residence or any other missing documents.
• Failure to provide necessary documents may also result in a disciplinary penalty.

If you're importing goods to a secondary residence in Belgium

Importing goods for a secondary residence in Belgium is treated differently than a primary relocation. Duty-free entry for secondary residences is no longer possible.

What you'll need

• A detailed inventory, continuously numbered and signed by you.

Good to know

• These goods are subject to the payment of customs duty and VAT.
• The exact percentage of duties and VAT will depend on the specific nature of the items being imported.

Diplomatic moves

Special provisions apply for diplomatic personnel relocating to Belgium.

What you'll need

• Declaration 136 F, signed and stamped by authorized embassy personnel and by you.

Good to know

• The signatures and stamp on Declaration 136 F must be on file at the Customs house where the importation takes place.
• Specific rules apply to alcohol importation for diplomats; refer to the "Alcohol & tobacco" section for details.

Moving after marriage (Wedding Trousseaux)

If you are moving to Belgium in connection with your marriage, certain wedding gifts and household effects may be imported duty-free.

What you'll need

• All documents required for general removal goods (as listed under "If you're relocating as a new resident").
• Your marriage certificate.
• An inventory that clearly shows the value of each item and is endorsed with "These are wedding gifts".

Good to know

• Duty-free entry is granted only once per marriage.
• The country of origin must grant similar rights (this does not apply to private vehicles, cattle, wedding presents, or goods for commercial use).
• Importation must occur within two months before and four months after the marriage date.
• The goods must be appropriate in nature and quantity for your social standing.
• No single item's value may exceed 11,155 €.
• The goods must clearly be part of your household effects.
• No liquor or alcohol may be included in wedding trousseaux for duty-free entry.
• The shipment can be imported under one or both spouses' names.

Inherited belongings

Inherited goods may be imported duty-free under specific conditions.

What you'll need

• Application form for duty-free entry.
• An inventory in duplicate, which must be signed.
• A certificate from the Town Hall of your place of residence or an identity document issued prior to the death, proving you are an inhabitant of the Belgo-Luxembourg Economic Union.
• A certificate proving you are an heir, such as an attestation from a notary or a certified copy/extract of the declaration of succession.
• A certified death certificate.

Good to know

• The goods must be used.
• You, as the beneficiary, must have your principal residence in the Belgo-Luxembourg Economic Union.
• Importation must take place within two years from the date the goods became available to the heir.
• This exemption does not apply to goods for commercial purposes (e.g., commercial vehicles, raw/semi-finished/finished products, cattle, agricultural equipment).
• The date the goods are at the disposal of the heirs can vary (date of death, date of dispute resolution, date of payment of death duties, or date of export permit issue, provided delays are not due to negligence).
• Objects remaining in use by a surviving spouse for humanitarian reasons, with heir consent, can be imported within six months of being made available. The same applies to objects left with a person surviving a close relationship they lived with.

Bringing special items

Vehicles

Importing motor vehicles (cars, caravans, trailers) has specific requirements for duty-free entry.

What you'll need for Motor Cars

• A copy of your passport with your signature.
• Your car listed on the inventory, including its make, chassis number, motor number, type, and color.
• An insurance document valid for six months prior to the car's importation.
• The original certificate of title.
• A Belgian or European insurance document.
• The purchase invoice (sales contract).
• A certificate of residence from the Belgian commune where you will take up residence.
• Official proof of living abroad for the 12 months prior to your arrival or inscription in Belgium.
• A customs declaration, completed and signed by you.

Good to know for Motor Cars

• Duty-free entry is granted if the car has a minimum mileage of 6,000 km.
• You must have owned and used the car for at least six months before changing residence.
• Sales tax or VAT must have been paid in the country of origin.
• You must also be importing removal goods to qualify for VAT and duty-free import of the car.
• Keeping license plates on the car, if possible, can help avoid problems and allow driving on Belgian roads pending final registration.
• Belgium requires a minimum EURO 4 emission norm for vehicles to be registered and allowed on Belgian roads. Seek advice before shipping.

What you'll need for Caravans, Trailers, etc.

• A customs form (Benelux 4 certificate issued against a deposit of triptyque or carnet) if the trailer/caravan is not imported under the standard conditions, or if imported with another means of transport (e.g., trailers arriving by ship and continuing by road attached to a Belgian-registered tractor vehicle).

Good to know for Caravans, Trailers, etc.

• Duty-free entry for trailers is granted if the trailer is drawn by a foreign-registered motor vehicle at the time of importation.
• If not registered abroad, the trailer must show visible traces of use.

Pets

Bringing your domestic animals to Belgium requires specific health documentation.

What you'll need

• A certificate of vaccination against rabies.

Good to know

• The vaccination certificate must be dated at least 30 days before entry into Belgium but cannot be older than one year.

Restricted & prohibited items

Certain items are restricted or prohibited, and others require special attention.

• New furniture and household goods: Subject to customs duty and VAT. You'll need original purchase certificates. The exact percentage depends on the nature of the goods.
• Precious metal objects: Duty-free entry if they are clearly part of your household effects and correspond in nature and quantity to your social standing. Silverware is subject to the same conditions as general removal goods.
• Machines, appliances, and equipment: Duty-free entry with some restrictions. This applies if they are manifestly part of your household effects and correspond in nature and quantity to your social standing.
• Firearms: You will need a shooting license. The name, number, and caliber of the firearms must be listed on your inventory. Some firearms require registration with the local Police department, and a registration certificate/license is needed. Firearms must be loaded in a way that allows easy removal for customs inspection. Do not ship any firearms unless specifically approved by Belgian authorities prior to shipping.
• Plants: Require a phytosanitary certificate issued by the Ministry of Agriculture of the country of origin. This also applies to vegetable products.
• Presents & souvenirs: Subject to payment of customs duties.

Alcohol & tobacco

Importing alcohol has different rules for diplomats and non-diplomats.

What you'll need

• A detailed inventory list for all alcohol.
• For diplomats: a separate Declaration 136F specifically for wine and alcohol.

Good to know

• For non-diplomats: Alcohol is subject to the payment of taxes and duties.
• For diplomats: Exemption from taxes and duties is limited to an annual quota agreed upon by the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the respective embassies.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I don't have all my documents ready?
If documents are missing, you may need to pay a guarantee (bond) of 10% customs duties and 21% VAT. This amount is refundable within six months upon submission of the missing documents. A disciplinary penalty may also apply.

Can I import items for a secondary residence duty-free?
No, duty-free entry for secondary residences is no longer possible in Belgium. Such goods are subject to customs duty and VAT.

Are there any restrictions on the age or mileage of a car for duty-free import?
Yes, for duty-free entry, a car must have a minimum mileage of 6,000 km and you must have owned and used it for at least six months prior to changing residence. It must also meet EURO 4 emission norms.

Is there a time limit for importing my household goods after I move?
Yes, duty-free entry for household goods is provided the importation takes place within one year after your official change of residence.

What is required for importing pets?
Your pet will need a rabies vaccination certificate, dated at least 30 days before entry but not older than one year.

Can I include alcohol in my wedding trousseau for duty-free import?
No, liquor or alcohol may not be included in wedding trousseaux for duty-free entry.

For personalized assistance with your move to Belgium and to ensure all customs requirements are met, please contact relocation123.com.

Movers Directory

57 verified movers.

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Company	Location	Languages	Associations
Transworld International	Cl. Vanophemstraat 78 Overijse (Brussels), B-309	Dutch, English, French, German, Italian	EURA, FEDEMAC, FIDI, IAM	→
Compas International Movers	Bedrijvenzone Cargovil Erasmuslaan 30 ABrussels,	Chinese, Dutch, English, French, German	FEDEMAC, FIDI, IAM	→
Gosselin Group N.V.	Belcrownlaan 23 Deurne-Antwerp, 2100Belgium	Dutch, English, French, German	FIDI, IAM	→
Gorgan Move	De Vunt 7 Holsbeek, 3220Belgium	Dutch, English, French	FEDEMAC, IAM	→
Government Logistics NV	Belcrownlaan 23 Deurne-Antwerp, 2100Belgium	Dutch, English, French, German, Italian	IAM	→
Gosselin Mobility NV	Belcrownlaan 23 Deurne-Antwerp, 2100Belgium	Dutch, English, French, German	FIDI, IAM	→
Putters International N.V.	Erasmuslaan 30 Cargovil (Brussels), B-1804Belgiu	English, French	FIDI, IAM	→
Santa Fe Relocation - Brussels	Jan Baptist Vinkstraat 9 Kortenberg, 3070Belgium	English, French	FEDEMAC, FIDI, IAM	→
ERDO Relocation	Londonstraat 38 Antwerp, 2000Belgium	Dutch, English, French, German, Malay	IAM	→
Potiez-Deman	Bazellaan 8 EvereBrussels, 1140Belgium	English	IAM	→
Servaes Services	Aarschotsestraat 47 Vilvoorde, B-1800Belgium	English, French	FEDEMAC, IAM	→
FIDI Global Alliance	Fountain Plaza Building 501 1st Floor, Belgicast	Dutch, English, French, Spanish	FIDI, IAM	→
GEP N.V.	Belcrownlaan 2 Gate 13 Deurne, 2100Belgium	Dutch, English, French, German	IAM	→
hasenkamp Moving & Storage	Leuvensesteenweg 436 Zaventem, 1930Belgium	English, French	IAM	→
Art of Living	Chaussée de Louvain 431H Lasne, 1380Belgium	English, French	EURA	→
I.F.F.S. - Int'l Freight Forwarding Srvs BVBA	Belcrownlaan 25 Deurne (Antwerp), B-2100Belgium	English, French	IAM	→
ReloTracker	Jezus-Eiksesteenweg 61 Hoeilaart, B-1560Belgium	English	EURA	→
Ets. Guy Magermans & Cie. SCRL	Bois Notre-Dame 1 Marche En Famenne, B6900Belgiu	English, French	IAM	→
AGS Coussaert Belgium	674 Haachtsesteenweg KampenhoutBrussels, 1910Bel	Dutch, English, French	FIDI	→
The Map Group	Brusselsesteenweg 321 OverijseBrussels, 3090Belg	English	EURA	→
RKS Relocation SPRL	Rue Chapja 28 Walhain, 1457Belgium	English	EURA	→
Illus Communications GCV	Helmstraat 139b Antwerp, 2140Belgium	English	EURA	→
Teletrans Europe SA	123-133 Rue Froissart 1000 BrusselsBelgium	English, French, Greek	IAM	→
Crown Worldwide Group	Vliegveld 748 Brussels, 1820Belgium	English	EURA	→
Bright Expats	Avenue de Broqueville 40 Brussels, 1200Belgium	English	EURA	→
MAP Relocations nv	Brusselsesteenweg 321 Overijse, 3090Belgium	—	—	→
Foreign Relocation Service BVBA	Avenue Herrmann Debroux 40-42 Brussels, 1160Belg	English	EURA	→
Fragomen GLobal LLP	Avenue des Arts Kunstlaan 44Brussels, 1040Belgiu	English	EURA	→
Do It 4 Me sprl	Square de Meeûs 22A IxellesBrussels, 1050Belgium	English	EURA	→
S.A. Mory And Co.	Chemin des Errauves 5 Neufvilles, 7063Belgium	English, French	IAM	→
BBF Serviced Apartments	Avenue de Roodebeek 78 box 9 Brussels, 1030Belgi	English	EURA	→
NetExpat Worldwide HQ	287/11 avenue Louise Brussels, 1050Belgium	English	EURA	→
Relocation Belgium	Koning Leopold II laan 12 Gent, 9000Belgium	English	EURA	→
Rentmore BVBA	Kerselarenlaan 15 Brussels, 1030Belgium	English	EURA	→
AAA Lion Movers Bvba	Meerbeeksebaan 1 Elewijt-Zemst, 1982Belgium	Dutch, English, French, German, Spanish	IAM	→
SIRVA	Vilvoordsesteenweg 140 Neder-over-Heembeek, 1120	English, French	FIDI	→
Gosselin Moving N.V. (Brussels)	Brucargo Building 734 Machelen, 1830Belgium	English, French	FIDI	→
LTA Relocation	523 Avenue Louise Brussels, 1050Belgium	English	EURA	→
ABC Relocation	Level 6 Schuman Roundabout 2-4Brussels, 1040Belg	French	—	→
Be Welcome	Reepkenslei 52 Kontich, 2550Belgium	English	EURA	→
Chambre Belge des Demenageurs	Rue Stroobansstraat 48A EvereBrussels, B - 1140B	French	FEDEMAC	→
Altair Global Relocation	Bosdellestraat 120 Box 8 1933ZaventemBelgium	English	EURA	→
Boxx Global Expat Solutions	Heikant 1 Achel, 3930Belgium	French	—	→
In-Lease	Duffelsesteenweg 162 Kontich, 2550Belgium	English	EURA	→
Brussels Relocation sprl	Chaussée de Bruxelles Waterloo, 94b 1410Belgium	English	EURA	→
Mobull	Maalbeekweg 15 Zaventem, B-1930Belgium	English	—	→
North Atlantic Services N.V.	Belcrownlaan 23 Antwerp, 2100Belgium	English, French	—	→
Schollaert nv	Logboekstraat 2 Gent, 9000Belgium	English	—	→
GEP N.V.	Legen Heirweg 155 ElverseleTemse, 9140Belgium	English, French	—	→
European Horse Services	Oostendse Steenweg 11 Boomgaarden 56Meetkerke, W	English	—	→
A Demenagements Sandermans et Jean-Pierre Scholts	Brixtonlaan, 3 Zaventem, 1930Belgium	English	—	→
Agility Logistics N.V.	Vliegveld 753 1820 SteenokkerzeelBrusselsBelgium	English, French	—	→
Lfs bv	Halleboomstraat 2 Leuven, Vlaams Brabant, 3020Be	English	—	→
Dockx Movers N.V.	Terbekehof 12 Wilrijk, 2610Belgium	English, French	—	→
All Moving Company NV	Straatsburgdok Noordkaai 21 Antwerp, 2030Belgium	English	—	→
Maison Genne s.p.r.l.	Avenue de Merode, 47 Rixensart, 1330Belgium	English	—	→
Romulus NV	Arthur De Coninckstraat 9 Kortenberg, 3070Belgiu	English	—	→

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