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Chapter 10 of 15

Language & integration

Dutch in Flanders, French in Wallonia, language legislation, integration exam

Summary

Belgium is a country of three languages: Dutch (in Flanders), French (in Wallonia), and German (in a small area near the German border). Brussels is officially bilingual but predominantly French-speaking in practice. For Dutch emigrants, the language choice determines your destination. In Flanders, you can function immediately, but there are subtle differences with Dutch from the Netherlands. In Wallonia, you must learn French. Since 2004, Flanders has a mandatory integration program for newcomers — including Dutch nationals.

What you need to know

Language areas in Belgium

Dutch-speaking area (Flanders) — 6.7 million inhabitants, official language Dutch, all government services in Dutch.

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Knowledge Base

Glossary
  • eID (Electronic Identity Card)

    The Belgian electronic identity card. As an EU citizen you receive an E-card or E+-card. Use it to identify yourself with the government, bank and for online services via Itsme or eID software.

  • Rijksregister (National Register)

    The Belgian national population register. You receive a national register number when registering in your municipality. This number is required for work, taxes, health insurance and all official matters.

  • Mutualiteit (Health Insurance Fund)

    The Belgian health insurance fund. You are required to join a mutualiteit for your health insurance. Choose from: CM, Solidaris, Liberal Mutuality, Independent Fund, or the Auxiliary Fund (CAAMI).

  • Crossroads Bank for Social Security

    The central database connecting all Belgian social security institutions. Your national register number is the key to this system.

  • Kinderbijslag (Child Benefit)

    Belgian child benefit, called "Groeipakket" in Flanders. Automatic entitlement when living and working in Belgium. Amounts vary by region (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels).

  • FOD Financiën (Federal Finance Department)

    The Belgian federal tax department. Here you file your annual tax return (Tax-on-Web), register as a taxpayer and handle all fiscal matters.

  • Personenbelasting (Personal Income Tax)

    The Belgian personal income tax. Progressive rates from 25% to 50%. Belgium has one of the highest tax burdens in Europe, but also many deductions and benefits.

  • Gemeente (Town Hall)

    The Belgian town hall. Here you register, request documents, and handle administrative matters. In Brussels and Wallonia this is called "commune" or "maison communale".

  • Zorgkas (Care Fund)

    The Flemish care insurance for non-medical care (home care, care homes). Mandatory for all residents of Flanders and Brussels. Annual contribution of ~€54.

  • Itsme (Digital Identity App)

    The Belgian digital identity app. Essential for online government services, banking and signing contracts. Comparable to DigiD but on your smartphone.

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