David27
Belgian citizen
Forum posts
69
Contacts
3
About me
Belgian
Lives in Bruselas
Speaks Spanish English Italian French
Registration: 12 September 2011
Meet up saturday 16th mai Scott's bar !
Not a bad idea. Weather is awful but why not. Scott's seems to be a popular meeting place for pats of late. Read More
my mom visa is denied please help me
If you want to invite family members to visit you, it is advisable that you get a "Prise en charge", which is a document issued by your local city hall whereby you assume the costs of their accommodation, their stay, and their ... Read More
How to work oven-microwave combo by bessfromfla
We've been living in Belgium for a month, and we still can't figure out how to work the combination oven-microwave. I have looked at the manual online (it's an AEG), and the directions don't make sense even when you figure out what ...
Just google the brand of your oven and add "what symbols mean" or "how to use it" ... google will come up with several forums and else discussing at length your doubts Read More
English Speaking Dentist by balesy1974
Hey fellow expats, can anyone recommend an English speaking dentist in Brussels or the surrounding area? I have dental work which I need doing but I don't really fancy putting it off any longer, especially when I have no idea when I'll be popping ...
http://brusselssmile.eu/en/the-clinic My dentist is Dr Declercq, French lady with studies in the US, so her English is quite good. Dental treatment in Belgium is quite expensive, in case you cannot afford it, instead of looking for a cheap doctor ... Read More
Freelancing in Belgium as an American
For the requirements to be a self-employed person in Belgium see here: http://www.partena.be/fr/independant.aspx As you are not an EU national, there is no way to start your activity as self-employed right away. It will take time and perhaps weeks ... Read More
A place to fix my Samsung laptop in Brussels
cotubex.be/ I have heard good things about this place but never used their services myself. In general, the after sales service at Belgian shops really s... It is perhaps their attitude toward client satisfaction (or lack thereof). In case the ... Read More
The possibility for Marry a Belgian without Marriage or Fiance Visa by Enny Frans
Hello everyone, i just want to share my experience about our marriage. Me and my boyfriend which is my husband now met in Bali on September 2012, and he was traveled there for like 10 months and we spent many times together to know more about each ...
Congratulations! US nationals don't need a visa to enter as tourists. Once in Belgium just contact the local town hall to book a date for the wedding, as simple as that (make sure to bring with you all necessary documents, with ... Read More
Leaving Belgium - what formalities need to be done
I am not familiar with the process but I would say to add the below to your to-do list: - check possibility to "export" social security/pension rights accrued while in Belgium (if you are student this does not apply); - ask your social ... Read More
Brussels: Where to Live French or Dutch Area-and Cost by mchattha
Hi, We are moving to Brussels with our three year old kid. I came to know of Brussels is bilingual. Since the kid will start kindergarten in local school, Little bit confused to decide on which side to live. Can you provide some reasons with pros ...
French-speaking area outside Brussels is (at peak times) more than one hour away. Just use immoweb to find a suitable property in Brussels. Very much depends on where exactly your office is located, if near a metro you can easily live almost any ... Read More
Visa Query by mchattha
Hi, I was wondering if some one can help me in regards to the long term visa to Belgium for myself and my family. My Employer is in the process of obtaining the work permit in Brussels. My status is Permanent residency to Czech republic. That I got ...
It is the document in English that contains some language indicating the (slightly) enhanced rights when you decide to relocate to a different EU country. The French one just sets out the procedural rules. Let's be clear, your permanent ... Read More
Visa Query by mchattha
Hi, I was wondering if some one can help me in regards to the long term visa to Belgium for myself and my family. My Employer is in the process of obtaining the work permit in Brussels. My status is Permanent residency to Czech republic. That I got ...
https://dofi.ibz.be/sites/dvzoe/FR/Documents/20090714_f.pdf According to this document of the Immigration Office you need to apply for long-term visa at the Embassy and only in exceptional circumstances directly at the local administration in ... Read More
Brussels: Where to Live French or Dutch Area-and Cost by mchattha
Hi, We are moving to Brussels with our three year old kid. I came to know of Brussels is bilingual. Since the kid will start kindergarten in local school, Little bit confused to decide on which side to live. Can you provide some reasons with pros ...
True, last post introduces an important clarification. Agents can act on the side of landlords and tenants. The suggestion to avoid agents was on tenant (your) side. Many properties are indeed advertised through agents and this shouldn't be a ... Read More
Brussels: Where to Live French or Dutch Area-and Cost by mchattha
Hi, We are moving to Brussels with our three year old kid. I came to know of Brussels is bilingual. Since the kid will start kindergarten in local school, Little bit confused to decide on which side to live. Can you provide some reasons with pros ...
Agree with last post. IMO is better to avoid agents unless you want a unique property or advice on tax planning for a real estate investment. As to scams, just ignore anyone asking you to send money by western Union or similar means. Traffic ... Read More
Become a resident in Belgium without having a working permit by Cresendo
Hello, I would very much appreciate an advice how two people with an American passports can become a resident in Belgium without having a working permit. We are highly skilled artistic individuals, having plans to live in Wallon.We are planning to ...
My 2 cents.. http://www.werk-economie-emploi.irisnet.be/en/permis-de-travail http://www.werk-economie-emploi.irisnet.be/en/carte-bleue-europeenne In simple words, you have to apply in the Belgian consulate stating that you would like to establish ... Read More
Need some info by varun077
Friends, I need some information regarding rent agreements and few other things in Brussels as I am new here. a. Can you let me know if I rent an apt, and there is no electricity because meter is closed, is that normal? Is it tenant's ...
First question: landlord pays the connection fee, unless your lease says otherwise. Every lease agreement contains a definition of what you are supposed to pay and the connection fee is not within this definition. Water, electricity and gas are ... Read More
US Iphone 6 in Belgium?
It will work with no issues, part from having to use a different charger/adaptor (our plugs are different). Warranty will not work though. You will need to have it repaired in the US. I have changed my iphone already once (almost twice), so not ... Read More
Mortgage with ING?
You need to ask if there are conditions attached (not necesarely the case). If so, usually these comprise: fire insurance, life insurance (so-called solde restant d没), and some times an obligation to have an expensive current account with ... Read More
how can you guarantee that your visitor will return
Accidents and repatriation due to health reason are covered by a good travel insurance. Apart from that, there is little you can do to prevent an overstay. Read More
Where to go for Christmas? by tonica
Hello! I'm planning to spend December 24th and 25th alone and I'd like to go somewhere in Belgium (or close). I thought of a spa or a nice village. If you have any recommandations of b&b, not too expensive hotel or any other ideas for ...
Agree. Xmas market in Brussels is interesting and food is good. If there is snow in Paris, you should also go to the market there. Lights in the Xmas market on the Champs-脡lys茅es with snow over the trees in that part of the avenue ... Read More
Looking for a place to rent - working for Deloitte by kozakiewiczp
Hello expat!! My name is Patrick Kozakiewicz. I have just finished my masters degree in Political Science in Poland and I am moving to Brussels next week to begin working for Deloitte under their European Commission team. I will be moving with my ...
The most complete website for rentals is immoweb.be. It has an English version. You can call or contact landlords by email to get visit appointments as soon as you arrive. Read More
Looking for 2nd hand stuff. by Vahe Airikian
Hello dear expats. We are new in Brussels and are looking for used washing machine and drier. Where you would recommend us to look? Or a place with low prices for new ones. Thank you in advance.
http://ihpo.be/fr/ It is worth going to mediamarkt and just ask for promotions ... a couple of times i got big discounts for buying the machine from the showing room (without packaging). Read More
will hopefully be in Brussels this august
cassiopee.be/index.php/en/ A bit more upmarket: axl-aparthotel-brussel.be/ Of course, also airbnb.com Read More
Job offer in Brussels
Belgian schools start in September, so you'd better take steps quickly (lots of info online, just goggle it). It is a quite bureucratic systems full of traps, every year the newspapers are full of stories about parents complaining about the ... Read More
Job in Brussels like a nurse
Language may be a problem as mentioned before but it would be worth trying to contact job agencies, just type interim bruxelles in google and you will have plenty of them. There are a few that specialise in health jobs, perhaps a good starting point ... Read More
Where to buy a laptop charger? by gabby20
Hi, I moved to Brussels last week, I am enjoying everything wonderful city, lovely people but I do need to buy a new Dell laptop charger. Any advice on where I should start looking? Thank you!! Gabriela
Amazon uk or, if you want to have the continental plugs, amazon fr / amazon de Read More
Carte de sejour by MARIAG85
Hello, I am an intern for 6 months from Greece and i would like to know if i should get a carte de sejour. Is it obligatory even for members of EU? Thank you!
You don't need a bank account, unless you want a credit or arrange a bank blocked account for the flat, unlikely for short term rentals. If you have a bank anywhere in the euro zone, then you can use the cards and bank transfer services of your bank ... Read More
Help! Double US/BE: My bank wants to close my account? by zinneken
Hello, I'm Belgian and have only been born in the USA. I never lived, studied or worked there. My bank has notified me that because I am a US Citizen (they say I am just because I was born there) I am supposed to pay taxes in the USA and because ...
Have you tried to contact a US Bank? Sure your embassy can give you a couple of names. In Brussels we have banks from all over the world, the other day I saw a Chinese bank .... sure there are at least two or three US branches. Honestly, nowadays ... Read More
Shopping malls for clothes
Delhaize used to be the most expensive, not any more, As regards fashion, WSC is ok but small. There are more brands in rue neuve (metro rogier), but still very limited. Much better options in Antwerp and even better in Lille, both towns can be ... Read More
Carte de sejour by MARIAG85
Hello, I am an intern for 6 months from Greece and i would like to know if i should get a carte de sejour. Is it obligatory even for members of EU? Thank you!
For six months, don't even bother. The process will take so long that ypu will not hear from them until you are already gone. Of course, you need to live like a tourist, no bills on your name, use your national health system, I have heard stories ... Read More
Super Markets In Brussels
That delhaize shop is the paradise of xpats due to opening hours. Not that big though. From debroukere tube station, you can take the train to Hermann Debroux, get off at Demey station. There you will find a large carrefour supermarket, perhaps ... Read More
Super Markets In Brussels
Good delhaize shop nearby (best opening hours in the city). Just google the brand and use the shop locator. For electronics, mediamarkt and vandenborre are good but expensive. Both have shops nearby. Same as above. Amazon is far more convenient ... Read More
Newcomers FAQs by Atene
As an almost newcomer (will move to Brussels in less than 3 weeks), I would like to get some additional information which might be useful for other expats as well: - Is there any difference in [b]which bank[/b] I will open a b.account? I mean any ...
ATMs charges means paying for getting cash at automatic machines. BNP has different types of accounts, and the cheapest ones have hidden charges ... an account could cost as much as 30 eur or even more per year after adding all the additional ... Read More
Newcomers FAQs by Atene
As an almost newcomer (will move to Brussels in less than 3 weeks), I would like to get some additional information which might be useful for other expats as well: - Is there any difference in [b]which bank[/b] I will open a b.account? I mean any ...
Yes, BNP is a reliable bank but they don't offer free accounts. Bear in mind that depending on your account type you have to pay for using ATMs. It is one of the most expensive banks. Read More
Newcomers FAQs by Atene
As an almost newcomer (will move to Brussels in less than 3 weeks), I would like to get some additional information which might be useful for other expats as well: - Is there any difference in [b]which bank[/b] I will open a b.account? I mean any ...
Mind that internet banking is mandatory for free accounts. You cannot make bank transfers at the bank agency or, if you do, you have to pay a fee. For the three main mobile carriers, you get the sim card at dedicated shops (list of shops in the ... Read More
Newcomers FAQs by Atene
As an almost newcomer (will move to Brussels in less than 3 weeks), I would like to get some additional information which might be useful for other expats as well: - Is there any difference in [b]which bank[/b] I will open a b.account? I mean any ...
All ATMs are open for cardholders of any bank, so no difference in that respect. Now with online banking there is really no need to have an agency nearby unless you need to deposit cash, change foreign currency, etc. on a regular basis. Yet, it is ... Read More
Small Business by hannahhadman
Dose anyone have info about running a small Business in Belgium (Anyone i would have to contact or register etc)
See link below: http://www.guichetentreprises.partena.be/public/tout.htm Read More
Permanent residence - nationality by prasadg
Dear All, I am living in Belgium since 6 years with family (wife and kids). In order to apply for a Belgian citizenship, the people in my city hall suggested to wait till 7 years (one more year to go) as they say it is a safe bet as compared to ...
Strictly speaking, you cannot. Theoretically, if you never inform your townhall about your change of address (mind that you are required to do so), then no way for them to discover where you have been living the last year. However, there are many ... Read More
work permit BCard by houami
What is a B Card? I am from India and studied in London. My employers is interested in offering me a B Card. 1)Is that possible? 2)how long it might take? 3) Also do i need to take a visa once i get the work permit? Please let me know as its ...
Masses of information on visas for Indians living in India. Just takes a little google searching :-) You need a NATIONAL visa, not a Schengen one, when enquiring by phone or email, just make sure you mention ... Read More
Losing my italian residence?
Many italians keep both residences but you need to know what you are doing. In principle, you can be resident in one place only as you should declare your taxes there. In practice, many people never change their address in their Italian ID. If you ... Read More
work permit BCard by houami
What is a B Card? I am from India and studied in London. My employers is interested in offering me a B Card. 1)Is that possible? 2)how long it might take? 3) Also do i need to take a visa once i get the work permit? Please let me know as its ...
It is possible to get it in as little as two or three weeks. All depends on the experience of the employer, sophisticated companies are very good at getting things done. Once the work permit is issued, the visa goes quite fast. I would suggest to ... Read More
Yoga classes?
Some sport clubs offer them along with Pilates, dance, etc. If not, go to any bio shop (use goggle to find the nearest to you) and grab one of the free magazines near the entrance. There you will find a long list of lessons/activities offered in ... Read More
hello
Welcome to the forum. Looking forward to reading your contributions. Read More
Relocation agent Brussels
Am-pm.be Doit4me.be The first one is quite big. The latter is smaller but I understand that they have quite sophisticated UK clients. I have never used their services myself but I have heard good things about both of them. There many other ... Read More
How to make friends in Brussels by expat.com
We have been talking about [url=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=891]loneliness when you are abroad[/url], let's now talk about how to make friends (locals or expatriates) when you're living in Brussels :top: [b]Which are your best tips ...
It was nice meeting you all, the food was quite good as well. I am looking forward to meeting you next time. Read More
Refugees of Arab Spring by LarissaBelgium
Hi everyone, My name is Larissa and I am a student in Journalism. For my final paper, I chose the subject "Refugees of Arab Spring who came to Belgium". Let me know if you are one of them, if you know one of them, or if you can help me with that ...
"contact mosques ..." A very sensible piece of advice, go for it ! Just bear in mind that some sections of mosques are off limits for women. I have never been inside a mosque but it would be better if you go there with a male friend, just to be on ... Read More
fitness in brussels by tizianagirl
I am sharing my experience with you in the hope You are getting value for your money -instead of unnecessary stress-in the realm of fitness clubs:-)) Avoid Stadium at Ossegem metro station,in Molenbeek (Sippelberglaan 1-1080 St Jans Molenbeek)!! ...
It seems you have managed somehow to be in the wrong places at the wrong moments. In spite of everything said, Belgium is not a bad place to live, actually it can be quite nice if you learn to move around this complex country. Read More
Hi! I'm Greek and new in Brussels! I'd like to make some friends! by metaxenia
Hi all! My name is Kassie and I come from Syros/Greece! I recently came to live in Brussels to work as a volunteer in a global organisation for the care of handicap people. I'm interested in finding greek people in Brussels, but generally I'm ...
Hi everyone ! Not new in town but always interested in meeting new people. I would suggest to organise a drink after office hours in Place du Luxembourg one of these days. I am looking forward to hearing from you. D. Read More
fitness in brussels by tizianagirl
I am sharing my experience with you in the hope You are getting value for your money -instead of unnecessary stress-in the realm of fitness clubs:-)) Avoid Stadium at Ossegem metro station,in Molenbeek (Sippelberglaan 1-1080 St Jans Molenbeek)!! ...
The fact is that customer service in Belgium is simply non-existent, newcomers are always surprised and growing a 聯thick skin聰 is essential: always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst. As regards fitness clubs, hygiene standards in ... Read More
fitness in brussels by tizianagirl
I am sharing my experience with you in the hope You are getting value for your money -instead of unnecessary stress-in the realm of fitness clubs:-)) Avoid Stadium at Ossegem metro station,in Molenbeek (Sippelberglaan 1-1080 St Jans Molenbeek)!! ...
I am sorry you had a bad experience in your fitness, unfortunately it is something quite common in Brussels. Aspria is pricey but you get value for money, and having a swimming pool open until late at night is something hard to find in town. As ... Read More
Refugees of Arab Spring by LarissaBelgium
Hi everyone, My name is Larissa and I am a student in Journalism. For my final paper, I chose the subject "Refugees of Arab Spring who came to Belgium". Let me know if you are one of them, if you know one of them, or if you can help me with that ...
Hi there Just an idea, you may want to contact ONGs and other similar organisations working with the "sans papiers" on the ground. There are many of those here in Bxl, just google them. Good luck! Read More
working as a nurse in brussels by Angie123
Hi there, I am moving to Brussels in 2012 , I have recently qualified as a nurse and I am finding it difficult to find any info on how to go about finding a job. i would be grateful if anyone on the forum could point me in the right direction. I ...
You may also want to try your luck at private clinics, there are a few that focus on the local xpat community. Usually, they are found in the Schuman/Montgomery area. I have never visited one of those but I know there are a few, overpriced and the ... Read More
Food by algorightclim
Hi All I am an American and I have been living here for the past 2 1/2 months. My husband and I love to go out to eat but we have been disturbed by some practices that we are not accustomed to, like the preparing of food without any protective ...
I agree, the rice thing is just bad luck, avoid the place. As to washing hands, well do not take it for granted ... not only Belgians but, generally, people in northern Europe have their own way of seeing things. It is better to avoid places where ... Read More
Weekly meet up for drinks? by Mayo5
I'm guessing there will be little response to this, but does anyone have any interest for a weekly meet up at a different bar. Something casual, fun, and relaxing. We could try a new bar in a different area each week, and just keep rotating? ...
New to this forum but, quite honestly, July/August is a funny period of the year to organise any xpat meeting ... we are all far away from Brussels in a sunny place ! Read More
Buy a bike in Brussels? by JudsonEU
Anybody know where to buy a cheap/used bike in Brussels? Or anybody who know an online market (ebay) in Belgium that you can search for one? //Christina
WorldSport is another shop that sells new inexpensive bikes. One in City2 and another in Porte de Namur. A good lock is essential, do not buy the flexible ones, a rigid U-lock is the best ... never forget to secure the frame AND at least one wheel. Read More
Flat share, please help
Try xpats.com but most flats will be in the schuman area, 30-40m away from the ULB. Other options are appartager.be and the ULB itself, they have an office that can provide you a list of flats near the campus. All the best in your flat hunt ! Read More