Living and working in Belgium: Your move made easy with KOCH Moving Logistics

Belgium fascinates with an impressive blend of medieval charm, cosmopolitan liberalism and one of the highest qualities of life in Europe. For many emigrants, moving to the heart of Europe becomes an exciting career step – and KOCH Moving Logistics stands by your side as a reliable partner. Discover what makes living and working in Belgium so special.

Thanks to its central location in Europe, its excellent infrastructure and its multilingual population, Belgium ranks among the most important economic hubs on the continent. The country is the seat of the European Union and NATO and offers German skilled professionals attractive career opportunities in sectors such as logistics, the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, automotive production, IT, as well as in the EU institutions. The healthcare sector also has a high demand for trained professionals. Thanks to EU freedom of movement, access to the labour market for Germans is completely straightforward.

The Belgian labour market is characterised by high demand for skilled workers in technical and digital professions as well as in the healthcare sector. The average gross annual salary is around €50,000. Excellent prospects arise especially in Brussels (EU institutions, international corporations), the ports of Antwerp and Ghent (logistics), and the Wallonia region (aerospace, biotech). The average monthly net income is around €2,900, which is about 5‑10 percent above the German level. The work culture is rather informal, with flat hierarchies, direct communication and a good work‑life balance – overtime is the exception. Notice periods are also short by international comparison.

Statutory holiday entitlement is generally 20 days per year based on a five‑day week, with many employers granting additional days of leave. The average weekly working hours are around 38 hours.

Belgium is a country of great cultural diversity. Three official languages bear witness to its rich history: Dutch in Flanders, French in Wallonia, and German in the German‑speaking Community. The country is famous for its exquisite cuisine (fries, Belgian chocolates, waffles, beer), its comic tradition (Tintin, the Smurfs), and the Flemish painters (van Eyck, Rubens, Magritte). Cultural highlights include the Carnival of Binche, the Procession of the Holy Blood in Bruges, and the Ommegang festival in Brussels. At the same time, Belgium is a haven of art and culture with world‑renowned museums such as the Royal Museum of Fine Arts or the Horta Museum in Brussels.

Belgium offers a high quality of life, characterised by safety, cleanliness and an effective public transport system. The cost of living is similar to Germany by European comparison, although rents in Brussels in particular can be more expensive than in other cities. For a single person, monthly living expenses (including rent) are about €1,950, and for a family about €3,800.

Belgian work culture places great importance on politeness, punctuality and consensus‑building. Greetings are formal (handshake, introduction with first and last name). Unlike in Germany, communication is somewhat more indirect. A harmonious working environment is highly valued.

Belgium's transport system is excellently developed. NMBS/SNCB offers a dense rail network with fast connections between all major cities as well as to Germany, France and the Netherlands. The motorway network is also very well developed, and the geographical location makes Belgium a European logistics hub. Faircards for local public transport are widespread in cities such as Brussels and Antwerp.

Living in Belgium can vary greatly depending on the region. From elegant townhouses in Brussels, Antwerp or Ghent to rural single‑family homes in the Ardennes, there are numerous options. Rental prices in Brussels, averaging €900–1,200 for a one‑bedroom apartment in the city centre, are more expensive than in Antwerp (10‑20% cheaper), while food and leisure activities are comparatively affordable. KOCH Moving Logistics supports you in navigating the Belgian property market.

KOCH Moving Logistics supports you with your move to Belgium with comprehensive services tailored to your needs. From planning to execution, our team ensures that your move runs smoothly, so you can focus on what matters most: your new life and work in Belgium.

• Personal advice: Individual solutions for your move.
• Logistics expertise: Efficient planning and implementation.
• Local network: Support with integration in Belgium.

KOCH Moving Logistics not only offers standardised moving services but also places special emphasis on personal advice and tailor‑made solutions. Our experts are on hand at every stage of the moving process to ensure that all your needs are met. We help you to quickly find your feet in your new surroundings and offer support with administrative matters, such as registration with the municipality (obtaining your national register number) and opening a bank account.

Experience the smooth transition to your new adventure with the comprehensive service of KOCH Moving Logistics. Whether it's packing your belongings or organising your new home, we are here for you. Contact us and start your move to Belgium today!