First thing to know: Brussels = 19 municipalities
Each municipality has its own way of doing things. This means different processing times, different appointment systems, and sometimes slightly different documents to provide.
Our advice? As soon as you arrive, take a few minutes to visit your municipality’s official website to understand exactly how the process works where you live.


If you are an European Union (EU) citizen
1. Registering at the municipality
As an EU citizen, you are required to register at your municipality within three months of your arrival in Belgium. That said, the sooner you do it, the better.
This registration is essential. It allows you to:

• Work legally
• Register with the Belgian social security system
• Join a health insurance fund (mutuelle)
• Open a bank account
• Obtain your Belgian residence document.

In short, it’s the foundation for starting your life in Brussels smoothly.

2. Where and how to register
You will need to go to the Population Department or the Foreigners’ Department of your municipality. In most cases, you’ll need to book an appointment online directly via the municipality’s website.
Some municipalities also accept requests by email, by phone, or even on site, but be prepared to wait if you go without an appointment.
Keep in mind that available appointment slots can sometimes be several weeks away, so anticipation is key.

3. Documents to prepare
If you are coming on your own, you will usually need:

• A valid passport or ID card
• A rental contract or a hosting certificate
• Documents related to your professional situation:
  • An employment contract or employer certificate
  • A university enrollment letter if you are a student
  • A proof of sufficient financial resources if you are not yet working.

If you are moving with your family, you will need:

• A civil status documents proving the family relationship
• For children, an authorization from the other parent or a custody judgment may be required
• You may also be asked to prove that you can financially support your family.

Be aware that certain documents may need to be officially translated.

4. What happens after registration?
Once your application has been accepted, you will receive a registration certificate, called Annex 8 or 8bis, which includes your Belgian national register number.
After that, a police officer will come to your address to verify your residence. This step is very important. Make sure your name is clearly visible on the mailbox. If you are not at home, a notice may be left in your mailbox.
Without this address verification, the rest of the process cannot move forward.

5. Your electronic ID card (e-card)
Once the police check is validated, you can apply for your EU electronic residence card (e-card) at the municipality.
You will need your passport or ID card, passport photos (often taken directly at the municipality), and a means of payment.
The price depends on the municipality. The average production time is around two to three weeks.

6. Collecting your card
Your card must be collected in person. Bring your temporary residence document and the letter confirming that your card is ready. Your PIN code is usually sent by post in a separate letter.


If you are a non-EU citizen
1. Before arriving in Belgium
Before coming to Belgium, you must obtain a visa or residence permit.

• Visa C allows you to stay for less than 90 days
• Visa D is required for stays longer than 90 days

The application must be submitted to the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country of origin.
You will generally be asked to provide :

• A valid passport
• A proof of sufficient financial means
• A hosting certificate
• A health insurance
• Depending on your situation
• A medical certificate
• A criminal record extract

Official translations and apostilles may also be required.
Processing times can be long, so it’s strongly recommended to start this process well in advance.

2. After arriving in Brussels
Once in Belgium, you must go to your municipality within eight days of your arrival.
Before starting this process, we recommend taking a moment to review the steps listed earlier in this article, as the procedure is very similar.
The steps include municipal registration, a police address verification, and the application for a residence card.

• A card: a temporary residence card, usually issued to non-EU citizens staying in Belgium for a limited period, for example for work, studies or an internship. It is generally valid for one year and must be renewed
• B card: a permanent residence card, granted after several years of legal and uninterrupted stay in Belgium. It allows long-term residence in Belgium without the need for annual renewal
• H card: a residence card issued to certain non-EU workers in specific situations, such as highly qualified workers or researchers. It is usually linked to a specific professional status and may have a limited validity
• L card: a short-term residence card issued for specific or temporary stays. It is less common and depends on individual circumstances
• Other cards: depending on your situation, additional types of residence cards may exist. The exact card you receive will always depend on your personal, family or professional status

Some residence cards are temporary and must be renewed every year. Make sure to anticipate the renewal two to three months before the expiration date.


Neybor tips
Keep both paper and digital copies of all your documents, check your mailbox regularly, and make sure your name is displayed on it as soon as you move in. Try to anticipate administrative steps, as delays are common. And if you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to contact your municipality directly, that’s what they’re there for.

Moving to Brussels requires a bit of patience, but we promise: once these steps are behind you, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your new life here.