Moving to a new city is exciting, but it also comes with plenty of practical questions. Where should you live? Which school is right for your children? How do you open a Belgian bank account or exchange your driving licence?
To help international professionals, entrepreneurs, investors and their families settle in with confidence, why.Brussels has created the Relocating to Brussels chapter of its handbook—a practical guide bringing together everything you need to know before and after your arrival.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll find inside.
Dedicated support from day one
Every relocation journey is different, which is why the handbook starts by introducing the organisations that can support you throughout your move.
One of the key resources featured is commissioner.brussels, the Brussels institution dedicated to helping international residents navigate administrative procedures and everyday life in the Belgian capital. Whether you have questions about residency, healthcare or local services, the handbook points you towards trusted sources of information.
Get to know Brussels before you arrive
Finding the right neighbourhood is often one of the biggest decisions when relocating.
The handbook introduces Brussels’ unique international character, explains how the city is organised, and helps newcomers better understand its diverse neighbourhoods, mobility options and quality of life. This overview makes it easier to choose the area that best matches your professional and personal needs.
Finding a place to call home
Whether you’re looking for a city-centre apartment or a family house in a quieter neighbourhood, the handbook walks you through the Belgian housing market.
It explains the essentials of renting or buying property, highlights useful considerations before signing a contract and directs readers to practical resources that simplify the housing search.
Helping families find the right school
For many families, education is a top priority when relocating.
The handbook provides an overview of the Belgian education system, introduces the different schooling options available in Brussels—including international schools—and helps parents understand the factors to consider when choosing the right school for their children.
Driving in Brussels
Planning to drive after your move?
The handbook explains how driving licences are recognised in Belgium, when they need to be exchanged and what new residents should know before getting behind the wheel. It also introduces practical information about driving and mobility in the Brussels-Capital Region.
Understanding insurance
Insurance can seem complex when moving abroad.
That’s why the handbook provides a clear introduction to the different types of insurance you may need in Belgium, helping newcomers understand which policies are mandatory and which offer valuable additional protection.
Opening your Belgian bank account
Managing your finances becomes much easier with a local bank account.
The handbook explains why opening a Belgian account is important, what documents are generally required and how this step supports many other administrative procedures after your arrival.
Learning French or Dutch
Although Brussels is highly international, learning one or both of its official languages can make everyday life even more rewarding.
The handbook introduces the language-learning opportunities available in Brussels and explains how developing your language skills can help you integrate into local communities and expand your professional opportunities.
One handbook, everything you need
Relocating involves many practical steps, but you don’t have to navigate them alone.
The Relocating to Brussels chapter brings together reliable information, useful contacts and practical guidance in one place, helping you prepare your move and settle into life in Brussels with confidence.
Whether you’re moving for work, starting a business or relocating with your family, the handbook is designed to make your transition simpler—so you can focus on making the most of everything Brussels has to offer.
Here is the link to download the full handbook : https://why.brussels/packages/handbook/
