• Population: 11.4 million
• Capital: Brussels
• Demographics: Belgian 75.2%, Italian 4.1%, Moroccan 3.7%, French 2.4%, Turkish 2%, Dutch 2%, other 10.6% (2012 est.)
• Religion: About 60% Christian, 32% No religion, 5% Islam, 2% Other religions
• Type of government: Federal Parliamentary Democracy under a Constitutional Monarchy divided into three largely autonomous regions; Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels
• Regional Membership: Belgium is part of the European Union and the Schengen region
• Currency: Euro
• Food: Known for beer, chocolates, waffles, French fries with mayonnaise

Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German.

A number of non-official, minority languages are spoken as well. The Flanders region of Belgium is more multi-lingual, but even still, only 59% also speak French and 53% can speak English. Within Brussels, 41% of the population self-reported as being able to speak English.

As a University of Illinois student, you have access to library resources (such as Rosetta Stone and Libguides). You may also want to consider free sources to learn basic phrases, or to refresh your language skills prior to departure.

It is each students responsibility to independently verify the visa information below and ensure they apply and secure the appropriate documentation to travel and stay in their host country for the duration of their program.

Students studying abroad in Belgium for at least one semester will need to get a student visa. For more information, read KU Leuven Visa and Residence Permit Instructions and check out the Belgium Consulate website.

To read more on passport and visa terminology see the Passports & Visas page of this website.

Phones

• Check with your service provider about purchasing an international plan, though a local number may be useful for safety and communications purposes.
• Pay-as-you-go SIM cards might be the most affordable option for longer stays and will be available for purchase once you arrive in Belgium. These no-contract plans are commonly used in Belgium by locals. Most pay-as-you-go plans will have data options for internet use.
• Make sure you have the Duo Mobile app set up on your phone. If you get a new SIM card, use the passcode options instead of PUSH, or go to UI Verify website to enter your new phone information.

Internet

• Internet infrastructure in Belgium is very well developed, and you will likely have internet access through your housing.
• WiFi service is widely available throughout the country in bars, restaurants, and hotels. It may not be available for free in as many locations as the U.S.

Electricity

• Belgium uses plug Type C, so it is recommended that you buy a plug adapter.
• While an adapter makes your device fit into the local outlet, a converter converts the voltage. The voltage will not be the same as in the U.S. For that reason, it is recommended that you do NOT bring appliances such as hair dryers or hair straighteners with you unless you also purchase a voltage converter.

Using Money

• Cash is the most popular payment method for in-person transactions in Belgium, although young Belgians do not use cash as frequently as older Belgians do.
• Credit and debit cards are the preferred payment method for many younger Belgians, and both are widely accepted.
• If you plan to utilize a US credit or debit card while in Belgium, be sure to notify your bank that you will be using it abroad and find out how much of an international surcharge will be added for each card swipe.

Banking Tips

• Internet banking/bank transfers are the most common payment method for regular bill payments.
• If the international ATM whether you want your currency converted into dollars, keep it in the local currency to prevent extra costs.
• Many US banks will allow you to exchange dollars for Euros in advance of your trip at little to no cost. It is recommended that you travel to Belgium with enough Euros to last you several days, or exchange dollars for Euros directly at the airport upon arrival.
• Major banks in Belgium include BNP Paribas Fortis, ING Belgium, and KBC.

Climate

• Belgium has a temperate climate with cool summers and moderate winters.

Packing

• Must-pack items from the packing list include; compact umbrella, sweaters, winter coat, and rain gear.
• For more packing considerations, view the Packing List (PDF).

Traveling Locally

• Within Belgium, you should utilize the public railway system to get from town to town. Utilize Belgiantrain.be to purchase train tickets in advance to save money.
• Buses are typically only used for short distances in Belgium, and every large town or city will have comprehensive bus, tram, and metro options to get around within the city.

Travelling Internationally

• Brussels Airport (BRU) is the largest international airport in Belgium. Upon arrival, you can travel with intercity buses or trains to your final destination in Belgium.
• Many high-speed European trains depart from Brussels, with dozens of daily high-speed trains which travel to Paris, London, and Amsterdam in two hours.

Each student faces different barriers and unique challenges based on their identity. For example, how you identify in the United States may not be how you choose to identify abroad because of the local social culture. We encourage all students to reflect on the different aspects of their identity and consider how they may play a role in their study abroad experience. To help with this thought process: visit the State Department website and look into the Identity & Inclusion resources available on this website.

International Safety and Security provides important wellness tips, along with using your insurance and the emergency phone number. Be sure to become familiar with this website and the resources available to you. Review the U.S. Embassy page and the Department of State website for additional safety resources.

Enroll yourself in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Department of State. Registration in STEP will allow you to get alerts on the latest safety and security information. In addition, the information you provide enables the U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency.