If you’re looking for the next step in your career and are
considering moving abroad, Belgium could well be the perfect destination for
you. One of Europe’s most historic cities, Belgium is full of career
opportunities, vibrant culture, and has a thriving economy. Here are just a few
reasons why a job in Belgium could be perfect for you.
About Belgium
Belgium, officially known as the Kingdom of Belgium, is a
small, densely populated country in Western Europe and one of the six founding
countries of the European Union. It is divided into three geographical regions:
the coastal plain in the northwest, the central plateau, and the Ardennes
uplands in the southeast, and into three federal regions - Flanders, Brussels, and Wallonia.
Renowned for its rich history, culture, and
monarchy dating back to the 10th century, Belgium is famous for its waffles,
chocolates, and beer. The country has three official languages: Dutch, French,
and German and most Flemish people also speak English.
Living in Belgium
Belgium is known for its music festivals and parades, its
chocolate and waffles, a diverse culinary scene with over 1,500 varieties of beer, prestigious universities like KU Leuven, and
Antwerp as the 'Diamond Capital of the World.' Belgium offers experiences from medieval towns and
vibrant cities to picturesque countryside. Its cobblestone streets, gothic
cathedrals, bustling markets, and contemporary art scenes blend tradition with
modernity, making it a fascinating destination for travellers and a cherished
home for its residents.
While Belgium can be more expensive than some neighbouring
countries, the cost of living varies significantly depending on the city. Brussels, the
capital, tends to be more costly, while smaller cities like Ghent or Antwerp
offer a more affordable lifestyle.
Working in Belgium
Belgium’s economy is driven by its export-oriented
industries, particularly in the automotive, chemicals, and food sectors. Its
membership in the European Union (EU) provides access to a vast single market, fostering economic
growth and stability.
The standard work week in Belgium is typically 38 hours, with overtime pay for hours
worked beyond this limit. Employees are entitled to paid annual leave, which
varies depending on their length of service. Belgium offers generous maternity
and paternity leave benefits to support new parents. Unions play a significant
role in the Belgian labour market, negotiating collective bargaining agreements
that set standards for wages, working conditions, and benefits. Belgian workers
are often entitled to a range of social benefits, including healthcare, pension
plans, and unemployment insurance.
Life Science in Belgium
Belgium has a thriving life science industry, driven by a
strong research infrastructure, skilled workforce, and government support. Key
facts about the industry include:
·
World-Class Research Institutions: Belgium is home to several world-class research institutions,
including universities, research centres, and hospitals, that contribute to
advancements in life sciences.
·
Pharmaceutical Industry: The pharmaceutical
industry, worth €9 billion in Belgium, is a major player in the Belgian economy, with several
multinational companies headquartered in the country.
·
Biotechnology: Belgium has a strong
biotechnology sector, with a focus on areas such as drug discovery,
development, and manufacturing. Belgian biotechnology companies accounted for 16% of Europe's turnover and almost 10% of R&D expenditure.
·
Medical Devices: The medical device industry is
also a significant contributor to the Belgian economy, producing a wide range
of products for healthcare applications. Belgium's market for medical devices
is expected to grow by 5.8% between 2021 and 2026.
Find your next role in Belgium
We are dedicated to finding rewarding jobs for skilled and
determined candidates. If you are considering a career move to Belgium, then
take a look at our latest jobs in Belgium here. We have an array of Life Science Jobs in Belgium.
