Settling-In

Settling-In

Whether or not we have assisted with a comprehensive homesearch programme or the assignee has found a property themselves, we can provide tangible support for the “settling-in” process.

Commune Registration

In Belgium, a priority within the first 30 days is to ensure that all family members are registered with the Local Town Hall or Commune and obtain an ID Card. This is obligatory for anyone taking up residence in a locality, even for Belgian nationals. We will arrange an appointment and accompany the family to the Commune; different Communes may require different documentation and in some circumstances a translator may be necessary. It is usually necessary to make two visits to the Commune and the Police may visit the family in the interim to verify residency.

Utility Connections

Prior to the move in date, we will contact the utility companies and arrange transfer of the gas, water, electricity and telephone into the assignee’s name, confirming all meter readings as appropriate. We will also assist with arrangements for satellite TV and other matters of this nature.

Medical Assistance

The Personal Relocation Manager will identify the preferred local Doctor and Dentist and assist in registering the family. In addition, we will physically take the assignee or partner to the local Hospital and walk into the Accident and Emergency reception area. Hopefully, this will never be required but if they do have an emergency, it is then too late to wonder where they should go. This brief trip can help put the assignee at ease in case of an emergency situation.

Insurance

We will put the family in contact with a reputable independent Broker who will assist in taking out the necessary insurances both for the tenanted property and any other pertinent matters.

Purchases and Rentals

We will assist in procuring major items required during the assignee’s stay in Belgium. This may include assistance with purchasing or leasing cars and also in renting and subscribing for mobile ‘phones.

In addition, we will accompany the family to appropriate retailers to purchase items such as televisions, washing machines and other white goods as may be required.

Banking Arrangements

Opening Bank Accounts and obtaining credit in a new country is never easy, no matter what the income levels or position of the applicant. We have very strong relationships with several of the major Banks and will accompany the assignee and introduce them to a suitable bank for an account to be opened.

Driving Licences

We will assist in obtaining a driver’s Licence valid for use in Belgium. Some countries Licences are recognised in Belgium but others will need to be exchanged for a local format.

Finding the way round

Moving to a new country can be very daunting and even a visit to a supermarket can be a concern. We can assist the employee and / or the partner and family in getting familiar with the local surroundings. We can accompany them on their first trip on the Metro or the tramway, explaining how the fares are paid and ensuring that the routes are understood. We can accompany them to the local Post Office and shops, explaining some of the local produce and availability of essentials. We will also identify local specialist suppliers, such as where to obtain wood for burning on the fire, DIY stores or where to obtain bread or milk outside normal shopping hours.

We will of course pass on contact details of the international expat clubs, which are prevalent in Brussels, and make personal introductions if desired. In addition, we will help identify any clubs of particular personal interest, such as Sports clubs or Leisure clubs.

Community Involvement

The settling-in programme can never have a definitive style as each family’s requirements will be different. We will provide details of local activities and also where to find out what is happening in both the local expat community and the local area itself.