Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the de facto capital of the European Union, is home to a large international community. With over 180 nationalities represented, it is one of the most multilingual cities in the world. For English speakers, Brussels offers a relatively easy transition: many locals speak English, especially in the EU quarter and expat hubs, and daily life can be managed entirely in English. However, navigating bureaucracy, housing, and healthcare requires some local know-how. This guide covers everything you need to know about living in Brussels as an English speaker, from finding a flat to understanding the tax system.
1. Choosing a Neighbourhood
Brussels is divided into 19 municipalities, each with its own character. For English speakers, certain areas are particularly popular due to proximity to international institutions, international schools, and English-speaking services.
European Quarter (Leopold Quarter / Quartier Léopold)
Home to the European Commission, Council of the EU, and European Parliament, this area is heavily populated by EU officials, lobbyists, and diplomats. English is the lingua franca. Rents are high: expect €1,200–€1,800 for a one-bedroom apartment. The area is safe and well-connected, but can feel quiet on weekends. Read our guide to the European Quarter.
Ixelles (Elsene)
A diverse, vibrant municipality split between the EU quarter and the trendy Matonge area. Ixelles has a large international student and expat population. The Place Flagey and Châtelain neighbourhoods are popular for their cafés, restaurants, and markets. A one-bedroom apartment costs around €900–€1,300. Read our guide to Ixelles.
Saint-Gilles (Sint-Gillis)
Known for its Art Nouveau architecture, multicultural vibe, and affordable rents (€800–€1,100 for a one-bedroom). Saint-Gilles has a strong Portuguese and North African community, but also attracts many young professionals and artists. The Parvis de Saint-Gilles is a lively square with a great market on Sundays.
Woluwe-Saint-Lambert and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre
These leafy, residential suburbs in the east are popular among families with children attending international schools. They are more expensive (€1,100–€1,500 for a one-bedroom) but offer green spaces, good schools, and a quieter lifestyle. English is widely spoken.
Etterbeek
Adjacent to the EU quarter, Etterbeek is a convenient choice for those working in European institutions. It has a mix of residential streets and student housing. Rents are moderate (€900–€1,200). The Parc du Cinquantenaire is a major attraction.
2. Bureaucracy: Registration, Residence Permits, and ID
As an English speaker, you will need to navigate Belgian bureaucracy, which is notoriously complex. However, many official forms are available in English, and some communes have English-speaking staff.
Registering with the Commune
If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you must register at the local commune (municipality) within 8 days of arrival. You'll need your passport, rental contract, proof of health insurance, and a birth certificate (apostilled and translated if not in French/Dutch). The commune will issue a residence permit (E-card) valid for 5 years for EU citizens, or a temporary permit for non-EU citizens. The process can take several weeks. Read our full guide to Brussels bureaucracy.
National Register Number
Upon registration, you receive a National Register number, essential for opening a bank account, signing up for health insurance, and filing taxes.
Taxes
Belgium has high income taxes (up to 50%). However, expats working for EU institutions or certain international organisations may have tax exemptions. If you work for a Belgian company, you will be taxed at source. You must file an annual tax return in French or Dutch (professional help is common). The tax year runs from January to December.
3. Cost of Living
Brussels is moderately expensive compared to other European capitals. Here is a breakdown of typical monthly costs for a single person:
- Rent (one-bedroom): €800–€1,500 depending on neighbourhood
- Utilities (electricity, heating, water, internet): €150–€250
- Groceries: €250–€400
- Transport (STIB monthly pass): €49 (as of 2025)
- Health insurance: €150–€300 (mandatory for non-EU; EU citizens use EHIC or private)
- Dining out (mid-range restaurant, 3 courses for one): €35–€50
Supermarkets include Carrefour, Colruyt, Delhaize, and discounters Lidl and Albert Heijn. For international products, Asian Market and Exotic Market in Ixelles are popular.
4. Healthcare
Belgium has a high-quality healthcare system based on mandatory health insurance. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for temporary stays, but for longer stays you must register with a mutualité (health insurance fund). Non-EU residents must take out private insurance.
Once registered, you pay for doctor visits upfront (around €25–€40) and are reimbursed about 70–80% by your mutuality. For hospitalisation, coverage is higher. Many doctors speak English; you can find a list at Bruhealth or through expat Facebook groups. Pharmacies are plentiful and pharmacists often speak English.
5. Education and International Schools
Brussels has a wide range of international schools, many following the British, American, or International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. Tuition fees are high (€15,000–€30,000 per year). Popular options include:
- British School of Brussels (Tervuren) – British curriculum, ages 3–18
- International School of Brussels (Watermael-Boitsfort) – American/IB, ages 2–18
- European School of Brussels (Uccle) – multilingual European curriculum
- Scandinavian School of Brussels – for Scandinavian expats
For French- or Dutch-speaking public schools, English support is limited. Some communes offer 'DASPA' classes for newcomers to learn French or Dutch. For more details, see our guide on Childcare and Schools for English Speakers in Brussels.
6. Employment and Job Market
English-speaking jobs are abundant in EU institutions, lobbying firms, NGOs, and multinational companies. The European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) organises competitions for permanent EU jobs. Other sectors include tech, finance, and consulting. Knowledge of French or Dutch is a major advantage but not always required. LinkedIn and BrusselsJobs are common job platforms.
Self-employed individuals must register with a 'guichet d'entreprises' (business counter) and obtain a VAT number. Tax rules for freelancers are complex; consider hiring an accountant.
7. Social Life and Community
Brussels has a vibrant expat scene. Meetup groups, Facebook groups (e.g., 'Expats in Brussels', 'Brussels Newcomers'), and events like Brussels Beer Project tours or Brussels Brunch Club make it easy to connect. The city also has many English-language bookshops (e.g., Waterstones at Flagey) and cinemas showing original versions (e.g., UGC De Brouckère, Kinepolis).
For sports, Brussels Runners club and various football (soccer) leagues welcome English speakers. Cultural venues like Bozar and La Monnaie offer English-friendly programmes.
8. Practical Tips
- Banking: Open an account with ING, BNP Paribas Fortis, or KBC. Many offer English online banking. You'll need your passport, residence permit, and proof of address.
- Transport: The STIB/MIVB network covers metro, tram, and bus. A monthly pass is €49 (2025). Biking is popular; Villo! bike-sharing is €1.60 per ride or €36/year. For more on cycling, check out Cycling in Brussels: Villo! and Beyond.
- Language: While English is widely spoken, learning basic French or Dutch is appreciated. The CVO (adult education centres) offer cheap language courses.
- Emergency numbers: 112 for medical/fire, 101 for police.
Related articles
- Living in the European Quarter
- Living in Ixelles
- Brussels Bureaucracy Guide
- Best International Schools in Brussels
- Cost of Living in Brussels 2025