Teach English in Belgium: Requirements, Salary, Jobs (2024)

Teach English in Belgium

There are several reasons why teaching English in Belgium could be a good opportunity:

Demand for English teachers: English is widely spoken in Belgium, and there is a high demand for qualified English teachers, especially in the larger cities such as Brussels and Antwerp.
Cultural diversity: Belgium is a culturally diverse country with three official languages (Dutch, French, and German). Teaching English in Belgium can provide an opportunity to learn about and experience this diverse culture.
Good pay and benefits: English teachers in Belgium typically earn a good salary and often receive additional benefits such as housing assistance and paid vacation time.
High quality of life: Belgium has a high quality of life, with a strong healthcare system and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities.
Good location: Belgium is conveniently located in the heart of Europe, making it easy to travel to other countries during your time off.

Overall, teaching English in Belgium can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, both personally and professionally.

What are the requirements to teach English in Belgium?

In order to teach English in Belgium, you will typically need to meet the following requirements:

A bachelor's degree: Most employers will require you to have a bachelor's degree in any subject.
A teaching qualification: You will need to have a teaching qualification, such as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate or a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate.
Language proficiency: You will need to be fluent in English, as you will be teaching it to others.
Work permit: If you are not a citizen of an EU country, you will need to obtain a work permit in order to legally work in Belgium.

In addition to these requirements, it can also be helpful to have prior teaching experience and/or a degree in education. It is also advisable to be familiar with the Belgian education system and the specific requirements for teaching English in the country.

Keep in mind that the specific requirements for teaching English in Belgium may vary depending on the employer and the location. It is a good idea to research the requirements for the specific position and location you are interested in.

What salary can you earn as an English teacher in Belgium?

The salary you can earn as an English teacher in Belgium will depend on several factors, including your qualifications, experience, and the specific location and employer you are working for.

Generally, English teachers in Belgium can expect to earn a good salary, with the average hourly rate for private English tutors in the country ranging from €25 to €50 per hour. English teachers working in language schools or international schools may earn a higher salary, with some earning up to €50,000 per year.

In addition to your salary, you may also receive additional benefits such as housing assistance, paid vacation time, and health insurance. It is a good idea to research the salary and benefits offered by specific employers in order to get a better idea of what you can expect to earn as an English teacher in Belgium.

What is the cost of living in Belgium?

The cost of living in Belgium can vary depending on the specific location and your personal lifestyle. Overall, Belgium is considered to have a high cost of living compared to some other countries in Europe.

Here are some general estimates for the cost of living in Belgium:

Accommodation: Rent prices in Belgium can vary widely depending on the location and type of housing. In Brussels, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €900, while in smaller cities, it can be as low as €500.
Food: The cost of food in Belgium can also vary depending on where you shop and what you buy. However, a basic meal at a restaurant can cost around €15, while a week's worth of groceries for one person can cost around €100.
Transportation: Public transportation in Belgium is generally reliable and affordable, with a single ticket costing around €2. You can also purchase a monthly pass for around €50.
Entertainment: The cost of entertainment in Belgium can vary widely depending on your interests. Movie tickets cost around €10, while a drink at a bar can cost around €5.

Overall, the cost of living in Belgium will depend on your personal lifestyle and spending habits. It is a good idea to research the cost of living in the specific location you are considering living in order to get a more accurate estimate.

The best places to teach English In Belgium

There are many good places to teach English in Belgium, as the demand for English teachers is high throughout the country. Some of the best places to consider include:

Brussels: As the capital city of Belgium and the European Union, Brussels is a popular destination for English teachers. It is a culturally diverse and cosmopolitan city with a high demand for English teachers.
Antwerp: Located in the Flanders region of Belgium, Antwerp is the second-largest city in the country and is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. It is also a popular destination for English teachers.
Ghent: Located in the Flanders region, Ghent is a historic and culturally rich city with a strong demand for English teachers.
Bruges: Located in the Flanders region, Bruges is a charming and picturesque city that is popular with tourists and English teachers alike.
Liège: Located in the Wallonia region, Liège is the third-largest city in Belgium and is known for its cultural and recreational activities. It is also a good place to consider teaching English.

Keep in mind that the best place to teach English in Belgium will depend on your personal preferences and interests. It is a good idea to research the specific cities and locations you are interested in to get a better idea of the opportunities and lifestyle they offer.

Living in Belgium

Living in Belgium can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, as the country has a high quality of life, a rich culture, and is conveniently located in the heart of Europe. Here are some things to consider if you are thinking of living in Belgium:

Language: Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. Depending on where you live in the country, you may need to be proficient in one or more of these languages.
Accommodation: Rent prices in Belgium can vary depending on the location and type of housing. It is a good idea to research the housing options in the specific location you are considering living in order to find the best fit for your budget and needs.
Transportation: Public transportation in Belgium is generally reliable and affordable, with options such as buses, trams, and trains. Belgium also has a well-developed network of roads and highways, making it easy to travel by car.
Cost of living: The cost of living in Belgium can vary depending on the specific location and your personal lifestyle. It is a good idea to research the cost of living in the specific location you are considering living in order to get a better idea of what to expect.
Healthcare: Belgium has a high-quality healthcare system that is available to both residents and visitors. You will need to register with a healthcare provider in order to access healthcare services in the country.

Overall, living in Belgium can be a great experience for those who are interested in experiencing a rich culture and high quality of life.

Some facts About Belgium

Here are some facts about Belgium:

Belgium is a country located in western Europe, bordered by the Netherlands to the north, Germany to the east, Luxembourg to the southeast, France to the southwest, and the North Sea to the northwest.
The official languages of Belgium are Dutch, French, and German.
Belgium has a population of about 11.6 million people.
The capital of Belgium is Brussels, which is known for its beautiful architecture, rich cultural and artistic traditions, and its role as the center of the European Union.
Belgium is known for its diverse landscape, which includes the Ardennes forest, the Flanders plain, and the coastal region.
Belgium is a major economic and political center in Europe, and is a member of the European Union.
Belgium is known for its contributions to art and culture, with famous artists such as Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Vincent van Gogh, and René Magritte.
Belgium is also home to many famous museums, including the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium in Brussels and the MIM in Mons.
Belgium has a long and rich history, with a culture that reflects its location at the crossroads of Europe.
Belgium is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes famous dishes such as waffles, fries, and chocolate. It is also home to many famous breweries, producing a variety of beers including Lambic, Trappist, and Belgian ale.