Why Belgium?

Summary

Belgium is the neighboring country that Dutch people know best — and simultaneously underestimate the most. Approximately 120,000 Dutch nationals live there permanently, making it the second most popular European emigration destination after Germany. The appeal is logical: you speak the language (in Flanders), you can reach family in the Netherlands within two hours, housing prices are lower, and quality of life is high. But Belgium is not "Netherlands-light." The country has its own character, a complex state structure with three regions and three language communities, and a bureaucracy that sometimes drives even Belgians to despair. This chapter helps you determine if Belgium is right for you.

What you need to know

Three regions, three worlds

Belgium consists of three regions, each with their own government, laws, tax rates, and culture: Flanders (6.7 million inhabitants) — Dutch-speaking. The economically strongest region, with low unemployment, good infrastructure, and a high education level. Cities like Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, and Leuven are vibrant, culturally rich, and well-connected. For Dutch people, Flanders is the obvious choice: you speak the language (with some adaptation to Flemish expressions), the distance to the Netherlands is short, and integration goes relatively smoothly. Wallonia (3.6 million inhabitants) — French-speaking. The south of Belgium is greener, quieter, and cheaper. The Ardennes offer nature you won't find in the Netherlands. Unemployment is higher and the economy less dynamic, but living costs are significantly lower. Cities like Namur, Liege, and Mons offer a quiet French-Belgian life. You do need to speak French — without it, things get difficult.