Brussels Newcomer Guide: First Steps After Arrival

Brussels Newcomer Essentials: Part 3 – To‑Do When You Arrive 🏙️

You’ve made it to Brussels – welcome! The first few weeks can feel busy as you get all the essentials in place, but with the right steps, you’ll be fully settled in no time. This guide walks you through the five key tasks to complete as soon as you arrive so you can focus on enjoying your new city.

1. Register at your commune and complete domiciliation

The commune is your local authority and you must register there within 8 days of arrival. Unsure which commune you’re in? Check the postcode of your address – for example: Etterbeek (1040), Ixelles (1050), Saint-Gilles (1060). Each postcode corresponds to a specific commune.

Bring your passport or ID, proof of address (lease or landlord attestation), and proof of employment or sufficient financial means.

If you already had a signed lease, you may be able to book your commune appointment before you arrive – a good way to avoid long waits. After your appointment, a police officer will visit your home to confirm your domiciliation.
Make sure your name is clearly visible on your doorbell or mailbox so they can verify your residence easily.

Once approved, you’ll receive your Belgian resident ID card. Card pick-up is without an appointment, but hours vary by commune – check before going. Skipping this step can delay healthcare and banking, and can even result in a non-resident tax of €1,300+ if the commune knows you’re living there unregistered.

📎 If you’re living with Morton Place in Saint-Gilles, see our dedicated guide on how to register at the Commune of Saint-Gilles ➜

2. Set up healthcare coverage and join a mutualité

After registering at the commune, your next step is getting health insurance. In Belgium you need to belong to a health association, called “mutualité”. Popular mutualité (health funds) include Partenamut, Helan, or Solidaris. The
Brussels Newcomer Desk is an excellent resource for understanding how Belgium’s health insurance system works.

EU citizens can use their EHIC card until registration is complete. Non-EU citizens should arrange short-term international health insurance until mutualité coverage starts. Choose a general practitioner (médecin traitant / huisarts) early for long-term continuity.

3. Arrange utilities and internet (if not included)

If you’re living in a coliving or serviced apartment, your utilities may already be set up. Otherwise, you’ll need to arrange:

• Energy: Common providers include Engie, Mega, and ORES.
• Internet/TV: Popular providers are Proximus, Telenet, and Voo.

You can often set up or transfer accounts online. If you’re unsure which provider to choose, ask your landlord for advice or use local comparison sites.

4. Get your transport sorted

Apply for a Mobib card for public transport at a BOOTIK or KIOSK counter or order online. The STIB/MIVB app is essential for navigating metro, trams, and buses. Remember, the airport supplement is not included in your Mobib pass.

If you prefer cycling, try Villo! (bike sharing with docking stations) or Swapfiets (personal rental bikes with maintenance included).

5. Stock up on essentials and build your community

Once the essentials are done, it’s time to make your new home feel like home.
Supermarkets: Carrefour, Delhaize, Lidl, Aldi, and Colruyt are great for groceries.
Household basics: IKEA, HEMA, and Action stock affordable home goods.

Explore local markets like Flagey (Sunday) and Chatelain (Wednesday) for fresh produce and a lively atmosphere.
Join expat Facebook groups, Meetups, or coworking spaces (Silversquare, Fosbury & Sons) to meet people.
Check Bruzz,
The Bulletin, and
Brussels Times for events and community updates.

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What’s Next?

Once you’ve ticked off these essentials, you’ll be ready to enjoy life in Brussels.
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Thinking about coliving in Brussels?

If you’re looking for a flexible, furnished housing option that already allows domiciliation and connects you with a ready‑made community, coliving might be the perfect fit. At Morton Place, we welcome professionals and newcomers year‑round.
Explore our coliving houses ➜