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Retiring in Belgium | Expat Exchange
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Bruges, Belgium

Retire in Belgium

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jun 03, 2023

Summary: Retirees are attracted to Belgium for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and excellent healthcare system. Belgium also offers retirees a high quality of life, with a wide range of activities and attractions to explore. The weather in Belgium is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit in the summer months, and the mid-20s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit in the winter months.

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What is it like to retire in Belgium?

"Belgium is a great place for retirees to enjoy their golden years. With its rich culture, beautiful scenery, and vibrant cities, there is something for everyone. Expats will find a welcoming and active community, with plenty of opportunities to socialize and make new friends. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, from the historic cities of Bruges and Ghent to the stunning countryside of the Ardennes. For those looking for recreation, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, cycling, and golf. For those looking for a more active nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. No matter what your interests, Belgium has something to offer retirees," commented one retiree living in Belgium.

"We wrote a book entitled "Retiring in Belgium - a Guide for Expats" packed with information for expats thinking of retiring in Belgium. In order to buy a copy (all proceed to go charity) link to the website www.chsbelgium.org," explained one retiree living in Brussels.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Highly recommend our book "Retiring in Belgium - a Guide to Expats" For more information see the website ww.chsbelgium.org," said a retiree who moved to Brussels, Belgium.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Belgium?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Belgium is navigating the complex pension system. Belgium has a multi-tiered pension system, which can be difficult to understand and navigate. Additionally, the cost of living in Belgium is relatively high, making it difficult to stretch retirement savings. Furthermore, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Dutch, French, or German. Finally, the healthcare system in Belgium can be difficult to understand and access, making it difficult for retirees to get the care they need," commented one retiree living in Belgium.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Belgium?

"Remaining in the city that we knew well from working here. A wide range of friends, comfortable housing, wonderful cuisine, good healthcare," explained one retiree living in Brussels.

"Retiring in Belgium offers a number of rewarding aspects. One of the most attractive benefits is the excellent healthcare system, which provides access to high-quality medical care. Additionally, Belgium has a strong social security system, which provides retirees with a comfortable level of financial security. The country also offers a wide range of cultural activities, from museums and galleries to festivals and concerts. Finally, Belgium is a safe and welcoming place to live, with a low crime rate and a friendly atmosphere," said one retiree in living in Belgium.

What are healthcare services like in Belgium?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Belgium. They wrote:

"Belgium has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides quality medical services to its citizens. Healthcare is funded by the government and is free at the point of delivery. All Belgian citizens are entitled to free healthcare, including preventive care, hospitalization, and specialist care. The country also has a wide range of private healthcare providers, offering a variety of services. Belgium has a well-developed network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers, providing a range of services from general practice to specialized care. The country also has a number of specialized centers for mental health, geriatrics, and palliative care. In addition, Belgium has a number of research centers and universities that offer medical education and research," said one retiree in Belgium.

"Yes. The care is excellent and plentiful in Brussels. It is more expensive than the NHS in the UK but worth paying more for," commented one retiree living in Brussels, Belgium.

How do I meet people in Belgium?

When we asked people living in Belgium about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Belgium often join clubs and activities such as language classes, sports teams, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals in Belgium," said a person in Belgium.

What is life like in Belgium?

When we asked people living in Belgium what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Living in Belgium as an expat or digital nomad can be a rewarding experience. The country is known for its high quality of life, with excellent public transportation, a vibrant cultural scene, and a wide variety of activities to enjoy. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of opportunities to network and collaborate with other professionals in the area. The cost of living in Belgium is relatively high, but there are plenty of affordable housing options available. The country is also known for its excellent healthcare system, making it a great place to live for those with medical needs. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the country's excellent education system, with a wide range of universities and colleges to choose from," remarked one retiree in Belgium.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Belgium?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Belgium, they said:

"1. Expats should research the cost of living in Belgium before retiring, as it can be quite expensive. 2. It is important to understand the Belgian tax system and the implications for expats. 3. Expats should also familiarize themselves with the healthcare system in Belgium, as it is different from other countries. 4. It is important to learn the language, as most Belgians speak Dutch, French, or German. 5. Expats should also research the different types of visas available and the requirements for obtaining them. 6. It is important to understand the cultural norms and customs of Belgium before retiring there. 7. Expats should also research the different types of housing available and the cost of renting or buying a property," explained one retiree living in Belgium.

What type of recreational activities are there in Belgium?

"In Belgium, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports complexes. Parks are a popular destination for Belgians, offering a variety of activities such as walking, jogging, and picnicking. Beaches are also a popular destination, with many offering swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Sports complexes are also popular, offering a variety of activities such as tennis, basketball, and soccer. Additionally, Belgium is home to a number of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions," said one retiree in Belgium.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Belgium?

"the shopping center we frequent is the "shopping center de woluwé saint lambert" and avenue louise ... in the city center," said one person who retired in Brussels.

"People living in Belgium typically buy groceries from supermarkets, local markets, and convenience stores. Other shopping can be done at department stores, boutiques, and online retailers," remarked one retiree in Belgium.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Bruges, Belgium

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