Hello Brussels
Your Guide to the European Institutions
Welcome to Brussels!
This guide is designed to help you settle into your new role at the European institutions, whether you're joining as permanent staff, a temporary or contract agent, or as an IT consultant working under a framework contract with DIGIT. HR, PMO and European Schools only apply to permanent staff.
Getting Started
Before You Arrive
Administrative Essentials Moving to Brussels for work at the European institutions requires careful preparation. Start by gathering all necessary documents: your employment contract, passport, birth certificate, and any relevant diplomas. If you're bringing family members, ensure you have their documentation as well, including marriage certificates and children's birth certificates.
Accommodation Search Begin your housing search early, as the Brussels rental market can be competitive. Popular neighborhoods for EU staff include Ixelles, Etterbeek, Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, and Uccle. Consider proximity to your workplace, most Commission buildings are located in the European Quarter (Quartier Européen). Rent prices vary significantly by area, with studios starting around €800-900 and two-bedroom apartments ranging from €1,200-1,800 in central locations.
Financial Preparation Open a Belgian bank account as soon as possible after arrival. Major banks like BNP Paribas Fortis, ING, and KBC have experience with international clients. You'll need this for salary payments and local transactions. Budget for initial costs including rental deposits (typically two months' rent), agency fees, and furniture if needed.
Your First Days
Registration Requirements Within 30 days of arrival, you must register with your local commune (municipality). This process, called "inscription," provides you with a residence permit and is mandatory. You'll need your passport, proof of employment, and proof of address. An inspector may visit your home to verify residence.
PMO Support for Staff Members If you're a permanent, temporary, or contract agent, the Pay Master Office (PMO) is your primary administrative support service within the European Commission. Located in Brussels, the PMO handles all aspects of your remuneration, allowances, and administrative rights. Visit the PMO service desk during your first weeks to ensure your file is complete and your payments will be processed correctly. The PMO can assist with:
Monthly salary payments and corrections
Family allowances and household allowances
Expatriation and foreign residence allowances
Installation allowances and removal expenses
Children's education allowances
Sickness insurance and accident coverage
Pension rights and leave management
For IT consultants and service providers under framework contracts with DIGIT, payment processing follows a different route through your contracting company, but understanding PMO services is useful for collaboration with permanent colleagues.
EU Staff Benefits and Allowances Permanent and temporary staff benefit from a comprehensive package. The household allowance recognizes family responsibilities, while the expatriation allowance compensates for working outside your home country. Parents receive education allowances to help cover international school fees. The installation allowance helps with relocation costs, and you can claim removal expenses for shipping household goods. All these allowances are managed through the PMO, which processes claims according to Staff Regulations.
Health Insurance EU staff members are covered by the Joint Sickness Insurance Scheme (JSIS), which reimburses approximately 80% of medical costs. You'll need to register for JSIS and may want to purchase complementary insurance for the remaining 20%. IT consultants should verify their health insurance coverage through their employer or arrange private insurance.
Daily Life in Brussels
Transportation
Public Transport Brussels has an extensive public transport network operated by STIB/MIVB, including metro, trams, and buses. The metro is the fastest way to navigate the city, with four lines serving major areas. Purchase a MOBIB card for convenient travel, you can load monthly passes or individual tickets. EU staff often benefit from partial transport reimbursement.
The European Quarter is well-served by metro stations Schuman, Maelbeek, and Trône. Most Commission buildings are within walking distance of these stations. For trips outside Brussels, SNCB/NMBS trains connect you to other Belgian cities and neighboring countries.
Cycling Brussels is increasingly bike-friendly, with expanding cycling infrastructure. The Villo! bike-sharing system offers an affordable option for short trips. Many EU staff cycle to work, especially during pleasant weather. Secure bike parking is available at most Commission buildings.
Driving If you're bringing a car, you'll need to register it in Belgium and exchange your driving license. However, parking in central Brussels is expensive and often challenging. Many residents find public transport more practical for daily commutes.
Neighborhoods and Housing
The European Quarter Living near work in areas like Quartier Européen or Square Ambiorix offers convenience but can feel office-centric outside business hours. These neighborhoods have good amenities but less local character.
Ixelles One of the most popular areas for international professionals, Ixelles combines vibrant street life with excellent restaurants, cafés, and shops. The Flagey and Châtelain areas are particularly lively. Good international schools are nearby.
Etterbeek Adjacent to the European Quarter, Etterbeek offers a mix of residential calm and urban amenities. It's popular with families and has good transport connections.
Woluwe-Saint-Pierre and Woluwe-Saint-Lambert These eastern communes attract families seeking more space and greenery. They're slightly farther from central Brussels but offer excellent schools, parks, and a more suburban atmosphere.
Uccle A leafy, affluent southern commune popular with families. Uccle has outstanding international schools but requires a longer commute to the European Quarter.
Education
European Schools The European Schools system was created specifically for children of EU staff. Four European Schools serve Brussels: Brussels I (Uccle), Brussels II (Woluwe), Brussels III (Ixelles), and Brussels IV (Laeken). These schools follow a multilingual curriculum leading to the European Baccalaureate, recognized across Europe for university admission.
Priority admission is given to children of EU staff, though spaces can be limited in popular sections. Registration should begin as early as possible. The schools offer instruction in multiple language sections, allowing children to study in their mother tongue while learning other European languages.
International and Private Schools Brussels hosts numerous international schools, including the International School of Brussels (ISB), British School of Brussels (BSB), and SHAPE International School. These schools offer various curricula (IB, British, American) and are excellent alternatives if European School spaces aren't available.
Local Belgian Schools Some families choose Belgian schools for deeper cultural integration. Education is free in public schools and available in French or Dutch, depending on the region of Brussels.
Healthcare
Finding a Doctor Brussels has excellent healthcare facilities. You can choose any doctor or specialist, there's no GP gatekeeper system as in some countries. Many doctors in Brussels speak English, though French or Dutch is more common. Ask colleagues for recommendations or consult the JSIS provider list.
Hospitals Major hospitals serving the international community include Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Hôpital Erasme, and CHU Saint-Pierre. Private clinics like Chirec also offer excellent care.
Pharmacies Pharmacies are widely available throughout Brussels. They display a green cross and operate on a rotation system for night and weekend coverage.
For IT Consultants If you're working as a consultant, ensure you understand your health insurance coverage. EU reciprocal healthcare (European Health Insurance Card) covers emergencies, but you'll need comprehensive private insurance or coverage through your employer for routine care.
Working at the European Institutions
Workplace Culture
Multilingualism Working at the EU means working in a multilingual environment. While English is increasingly common as a working language, French remains dominant in Brussels, and many documents and meetings use multiple languages. Learning French or improving your language skills will enhance both your professional effectiveness and daily life.
Diversity and Inclusion The European institutions bring together people from all member states and beyond. This diversity is a strength but requires cultural sensitivity and openness. Take time to understand different working styles and communication preferences.
Work-Life Balance The institutions generally respect work-life balance, with core working hours typically from 9:00 to 18:00 with a lunch break. Flextime arrangements are common for staff members, allowing some flexibility in start and end times. Remote work options have expanded significantly since 2020.
Networking and Integration
Staff Associations Numerous staff clubs and associations organize activities ranging from sports to cultural events. Joining these groups is an excellent way to meet colleagues and integrate into the EU community.
Language Courses The institutions offer language training to help staff learn or improve their language skills. These courses are valuable for professional development and daily life in Belgium.
For IT Consultants While consultants may have different access to staff facilities and services, many buildings offer shared spaces, and you can participate in various professional networks. Build relationships with both consultants and permanent staff to create a strong professional network.
Practical Information
Banking and Finance
Taxes EU staff members benefit from a specific tax regime. Your salary is subject to the EU tax, not Belgian national taxes, though certain allowances and additional income may be taxable. The PMO automatically deducts EU tax from your salary. Consultants are typically subject to standard Belgian or their home country tax rules, depending on their contract structure.
Cost of Living Brussels is moderately expensive compared to other European capitals. Budget approximately:
Rent: €800-1,800 for a two-bedroom apartment
Groceries: €300-500 per month for a couple
Restaurants: €15-25 for a casual meal, €40-60 for mid-range dining
Transport: €49 monthly pass for unlimited STIB travel
Communications
Mobile Phones Major mobile operators include Proximus, Orange, and BASE. EU staff can maintain their home country number and use it without roaming charges throughout the EU, though getting a Belgian number can be practical for local contacts.
Internet and TV Providers like Proximus, Telenet, and VOO offer internet, TV, and phone packages. Installation may take several weeks, so arrange this early.
Language and Integration
Learning French or Dutch While many Brussels residents speak English, learning French (the dominant language in Brussels) or Dutch will greatly enhance your experience. The institutions offer language courses, and external schools like CLL and Berlitz provide additional options.
Cultural Activities Brussels offers world-class museums, including the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, the Magritte Museum, and the Musical Instruments Museum. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, from the flower carpet at Grand-Place to Jazz Marathon and the Brussels Summer Festival.
Weekend Exploration Belgium's compact size makes weekend trips easy. Visit medieval Bruges, historic Ghent, or cultural Antwerp within an hour. The country's beer culture, chocolate craftsmanship, and culinary scene are world-renowned.
DIGIT-Specific Information for IT Consultants
Working with DIGIT
Framework Contracts DIGIT manages numerous framework contracts for IT services covering software development, infrastructure management, cybersecurity, and digital transformation projects. As a service provider under these contracts, you'll work closely with permanent staff while maintaining your independent status.
Access and Security Security is paramount at EU institutions. You'll receive specific access credentials and must follow strict IT security protocols. Badge access, building entry procedures, and data handling requirements are rigorously enforced. Complete all mandatory security training promptly.
Communication Channels While you may not have access to all internal Commission systems, you'll receive necessary tools for your project work. Understand the communication channels specific to your contract and maintain professional boundaries around sensitive information.
Professional Development Stay current with evolving EU IT standards, cybersecurity requirements, and digital transformation initiatives. Many framework contracts include provisions for training and skill development.
Resources and Contacts
Essential Services
PMO Contact The Pay Master Office is located in Brussels and accessible through the Commission's internal directory. For urgent matters, contact your DG's HR correspondent who can liaise with PMO on your behalf.
DIGIT Information DIGIT's homepage and internal documentation provide guidance for both staff and contractors on IT policies, security requirements, and project management standards.
Expatriate Services Several organizations support international professionals in Brussels, including the Expatica community and various relocation services specializing in EU staff.
Emergency Numbers
General emergency: 112
Police: 101
Medical emergency: 100 or 112
Poison control: 070 245 245
Useful Websites
STIB/MIVB (public transport): www.stib-mivb.be
Brussels municipality information: www.brussels.be
European Schools: www.eursc.eu
Belgian Federal Government: www.belgium.be
Final Thoughts
Moving to Brussels to work at the European institutions is an exciting opportunity that offers professional growth, cultural enrichment, and the chance to contribute to the European project. Whether you're joining as permanent staff or as an IT consultant, you're becoming part of a unique international community.
Take time to settle in, explore the city, and build your network. Brussels reveals its charms gradually, from hidden Art Nouveau architecture to neighborhood bistros, from the Grand-Place at dusk to Sunday markets in the Marolles. The European Quarter may be your workplace, but Brussels offers far more to discover.
The administrative challenges of relocation are temporary, but the experiences and connections you'll build during your time in Brussels can last a lifetime. Welcome to Brussels, and welcome to the European institutions!
This guide is regularly updated to reflect current information. For official administrative procedures, always consult your institution's HR services or the Pay Master Office. IT consultants should refer to their contract terms and DIGIT guidance for specific requirements.
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