Possible Catch-22 with Commune registration?

Post new topic

Member since 25 September 2016

LeventeTNew member25 September 2016 14:29:29

Hi,

I may sign a contract for 12 months in Leuven - and considering numerous rental / lease-related aspects, it may well be that for quite some time I would consider e.g. AirBnB on a month-by-month basis for example...

The puzzling thing remains, no matter how many websites I read: registration with local commune (as EU citizen, so within 3 months of arrival) needs rental contract therefore some "permanent" address.

Conversely, registration with mutuelle seems to need the residence papers that one would obtain after some while based on above registration.

Have I just read too much and have gone silly, or this is a real conundrum?... in which case how does anybody not "permanent" for quite some time (if ever) at some address comply with needed registration? I even heard opinions that then one doesn't register, but this is scary also blocks healthcare-related registrations (unless I go for A1 in UK).

Thanks in advance for any thoughts,
Levente

ClaireSto Member

Member since 13 July 2016

ClaireStoMember13 October 2016 18:41:13

Hi,

We have just moved to Belgium from UK and had the same confusions at first.

If you are going to be here for more than 3 months then you need to register as soon as possible (fill in an online form and they set up an immigration appointment for you) and have an address so that the police can check where you are staying (with your full name on the doorbell and letterbox) and they don't announce their visit so Airbnb wouldn't be ideal.

When signing a job contract, they will request a Belgian ID number which is given to you at your registration appointment. You also need this number to apply for a bank account amongst other things.

We are yet to register with a mutuelle and doesn't seem to be an initial requirement. We relied on travel insurance in the mean time. Companies seem patient to wait until all the necessary papers have been signed before setting that up.

Hope this information is ok and somewhat helpful.

Thanks,
Claire

phipiemar VIP Member

Member since 01 May 2013

phipiemarVIP Member14 October 2016 05:28:25

4733

Hi Levente,

You do not understand completely the claims.

The home address is where the Belgian administration is sure to find you. But the administration will never verified your lease. However the police will come to visit you to verify that you live there. And also check with the neighborhood.

So that you rent apartment to an owner or via Airbnb, they do not care. By cons, if it is via Airbnb, request permission to the owner ...

Demand for enregistriment within a maximum period of three months, it's just for you to receive a European / non-European resident card. This card will give you access to the services of the Belgian social security and also provide a reference number which your employer will need.

Do not forget the driving license that he will also be validated by the Belgian administration.

Articles to help you in your expat project in Belgium

A guide to Brussels' neighbourhoods
A very safe and laid-back city to live and work in, Brussels has many different sides for expats and tourists to ...
Doing an internship in Belgium
Students usually have to do an internship to validate their academic training. What's the process of doing an ...
Buying a car in Belgium
Some formalities apply when buying a vehicle in Belgium, both before and after the sale. Here's what to expect.
Buying property in Brussels
Compared with other European capitals, buying property in Brussels is very affordable. Consequently, it's ...
Buying a property in Belgium
The real estate in Belgium has the reputation of being relatively cheaper than its neighbors. We'll give you ...
Lifestyle in Belgium
Belgium is a diverse country that's very friendly with newcomers. What about its traditions, festivities, and ...
How to make new friends in Brussels
As Brussels is home to such an international crowd, there are many ways newcomers to the city can make friends and ...
Driving in Belgium
If you're moving to Belgium, you might be interested in learning about getting a driver's license. Read on ...