Brussels Newcomer Essentials: What to Know Before You Move

Brussels Newcomer Essentials: Part 1 – Know Before You Go 🌍

If you’re planning a move to Brussels, the best thing you can do is prepare well before your arrival. The Belgian capital is welcoming and international, but its quirks – from commune registration to strict recycling rules – can be confusing for newcomers.

This practical guide is designed to help you make the right decisions before you move. Each point goes beyond a quick tip and explains the “why”, so you can start your life in Brussels smoothly and confidently. But don’t worry – over 40,000 newcomers settle in Brussels every year, the city is ready to welcome you and, if you need help, it’s never far away.

1. Figure out your housing and neighborhood

Brussels is made up of 19 communes, each with its own post code and distinct atmosphere. Etterbeek (1040) and Ixelles (1050) – especially the lively Chatelain area – are popular with EU staff and professionals because of their proximity to the European institutions and abundance of cafés and shops. Saint-Gilles (1060) is another favorite for those seeking a creative, cosmopolitan vibe.

When choosing where to live, consider commute time, public transport access, green space, and amenities. There’s a wide range of housing quality and prices, even within the same commune.
See our full guide to Brussels neighborhoods ➜

2. Budget carefully for your first months

While Brussels is generally more affordable than Paris or Amsterdam, newcomers often underestimate the cost of settling in. In addition to rent, you’ll need to budget for utilities, a security deposit (usually one to two months’ rent), public transport passes, and essentials for your home.

Ask your landlord to clarify additional charges: many rentals include a monthly “forfait” (fixed fee) for utilities that will be reconciled against actual usage at year-end. Unexpected bills can arise if you’ve used more than estimated. Plan for at least €1,200–€1,500/month if renting solo, or €850–€1,200 in a flatshare or coliving space.

3. Make sure your phone and banking work from day one

One of the biggest frustrations on arrival is not having easy internet or payment options. Before you leave, check if your existing mobile plan includes affordable EU roaming and ensure you can use data in Belgium. If your plan is expensive abroad, consider getting a temporary eSIM (like Airalo or Holafly) so you’re connected from the moment you land. You can switch to a Belgian provider (Proximus, Orange, or Base) once you’re settled.

Banking is equally important: many foreign bank cards charge fees. Consider setting up an account with Wise or Revolut before you arrive so you can pay locally without extra charges. If you’re staying long-term, you may need a Belgian bank account (ING, KBC, BNP Paribas) to pay rent and set up direct debits.

4. Get familiar with communes, domiciliation and registration

Your commune is your local authority, and you must register there within 8 days of arrival. Registration is essential for your legal residency, healthcare access, and even for opening certain bank accounts. A few weeks after registering you’ll receive a Belgian resident ID card, which allows you to use the ItsMe digital identification system for almost all public services.

As part of registration, you’ll need to complete domiciliation – officially registering your address at the commune. This is required by law and unlocks practical necessities like healthcare reimbursements and tax registration. Confirm that domiciliation is allowed in your lease or coliving agreement before signing.

Tip: Communes often ask for a copy of your lease as proof of address, but this is not legally required. Other valid proofs (e.g., landlord attestation or a utility bill) are acceptable.

Once your file is submitted, a police officer will visit your home to verify you live there. Failing to register can lead to a non-resident tax of €1,300+ per year.
Learn more about the commune system in our upcoming “Belgium Basics” guide ➜

5. Set expectations for everyday life

Brussels has its quirks, and knowing them in advance can reduce culture shock. Most shops close on Sundays, recycling schedules are strict, and the weather can change dramatically in a single day.

For reliable local updates, follow Brussels Times, Bruzz, or The Bulletin. You can also browse the Brussels Reddit thread or expat Facebook groups for niche questions and community insights.

---

What’s Next?

Now that you’ve covered the essentials before your move, it’s time to focus on what you need to do in the weeks leading up to your arrival. In
Part 2: To‑Do Before Moving ➜, we’ll cover: securing your housing, healthcare, utilities, and moving logistics.

Sign up for our newsletter to receive each part of the series straight to your inbox, plus downloadable checklists and insider tips from Brussels locals.

Thinking about coliving in Brussels?

If you’re looking for a flexible 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 ➜