Why Belgium is the ideal destination for Healthcare Professionals
Belgium has seen a considerable increase in its population of foreign residents in recent years. In 2020, there were just under 1.4 million expatriates, representing around 13% of the country’s population.
Thanks to its ideal geographical location in the heart of Europe, cutting-edge healthcare, and a well-developed cultural scene, Belgium has a lot to offer its residents.
Let’s explore the advantages and challenges of relocating to Belgium
Cultural Landscape
Belgian culture is characterized by a welcoming and friendly population. With three national languages (French, Dutch, and German), Belgians are accustomed to a cultural mix. The cultural scene is vibrant and accessible, with numerous museums and arts events, even in smaller towns.
Belgium is also famous for its festivals, including the renowned Tomorrowland and over 400 other music festivals each year. Food lovers will enjoy traditional dishes like mussels, fries, beers, and waffles, as well as numerous Michelin-starred restaurants.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Belgium has increased significantly in recent years, partly due to the pandemic. Brussels now ranks 53rd in Mercer’s 2021 Cost of City Living ranking. However, Belgium offers a unique advantage: automatic wage indexation, which ensures that wages rise annually with inflation. Despite the high cost of living, Belgium boasts a high standard of living and ranks among the top 10 countries globally for this metric. Additionally, Belgium offers some of the best salaries for nurses in Europe, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle and savings.
Weather
Adjusting to the Belgian weather can be challenging, with nearly 200 days of rain annually. However, locals embrace the weather and continue to enjoy outdoor activities. Most events and venues are well-prepared for rainy conditions, ensuring that life goes on despite the frequent rain.
Healthcare System
Belgium’s healthcare system is ranked ninth globally in the 2021 Health Care Index. It excels in healthcare infrastructure, cost of care, quality of medicines, number of healthcare professionals per inhabitant, and government preparedness. With around 300 doctors per 100,000 inhabitants, Belgium attracts many foreign medical professionals. The number of expatriate doctors in Brussels increased by over 50% between 2014 and 2019.
Raising Kids in Belgium
Belgium is an excellent place for children to grow up. A UNICEF report ranks Belgium 8th out of 41 rich countries based on high school enrolment rates, safety, and the opportunity to grow up in a multilingual environment. Parents have various educational options, including state schools, public schools, and international schools offering English instruction. Belgian higher education is also top-notch, with world-renowned universities and reasonable tuition fees for EU students.
Whatever your family or career plans, Moving People is here to support you and help you achieve your goals.