Thinking about relocating to Belgium or France? This comprehensive Belgium vs France comparison covers everything expats and international workers need to know: average salaries, tax rates, work-life balance, annual leave policies, maternity and paternity leave, and cost of living considerations. Whether you're a software developer, engineer, or professional considering a move to Europe, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Average Salary Difference
+26.2%
Belgium pays more
Belgium
€ 54.000
avg. salary
France
42 800 €
avg. salary
Belgium vs France Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
€ 54.00042 800 €Median Salary
€ 45.00036 000 €Minimum Wage
€ 24.84621 876 €Top 10%
€ 85.00070 000 €Work-Life Balance: Belgium vs France
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
38-40 hours
35 hours (legal limit)
Annual Leave
20 days minimum (+ additional by sector)
25 days minimum (5 weeks)
Public Holidays
10 days
11 days
Sick Leave
30 days at 100% salary (guaranteed period)
Unlimited (50% from Social Security + employer top-up)
Maternity Leave
15 weeks at ~82% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
20 days (3 days at 100%, rest at 82%)
28 days at 100% salary
Belgium vs France for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
Belgium
Why Work in Belgium
Heart of Europe
Central location with easy access to Paris, London, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt. Home to EU institutions.
Multilingual Environment
Three official languages (Dutch, French, German) make it easy for internationals to integrate.
Strong Social Security
Comprehensive healthcare, pension, and unemployment benefits. High level of worker protection.
Excellent Quality of Life
World-renowned cuisine, rich cultural heritage, and good work-life balance.
International Business Hub
Many multinational headquarters and EU institutions offer English-speaking career opportunities.
Challenges of Living in Belgium
High Tax Burden
One of the highest income tax rates in Europe, with top marginal rate of 50%.
Complex Tax System
Regional variations (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels) add complexity to tax calculations.
Language Barriers
Different regions require different languages; some jobs require bilingual or trilingual skills.
Traffic Congestion
Belgium has some of the worst traffic jams in Europe, especially around Brussels and Antwerp.
Weather
Similar to Netherlands - often grey and rainy, which can be challenging for newcomers.
France
Why Work in France
35-Hour Work Week
France has one of the shortest legal work weeks in Europe, promoting excellent work-life balance.
Strong Labor Protections
Extensive worker rights, including protection against unfair dismissal and strong union representation.
Excellent Healthcare
One of the world's best healthcare systems, with most costs covered by social security.
Generous Parental Leave
Comprehensive maternity, paternity, and parental leave policies supporting families.
Quality of Life
Rich culture, excellent food, and a lifestyle that prioritizes enjoyment and personal time.
Challenges of Living in France
High Tax Burden
Combined income tax and social contributions can reach 45% or more of gross salary.
Language Requirement
French is essential for most workplaces; English-only positions are limited mainly to Paris.
Complex Bureaucracy
French administration is notoriously complex and often requires patience and paperwork.
Lower Salaries Than Neighbors
Compared to Germany or Netherlands, French salaries can be lower in similar roles.
Rigid Labor Market
Strong protections can make it harder to find positions as employers are cautious about hiring.
Tax Rates Belgium vs France
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
Belgium
- Progressive tax system with rates from 25% to 50%
- Tax-free allowance of EUR 10,570 (indexed)
- Social security contribution of 13.07%
- Work bonus for low-wage workers
- Regional tax variations (Flanders job bonus)
France
- Progressive tax system from 0% to 45%
- Family quotient system reduces tax for families
- CSG (9.2%) and CRDS (0.5%) on 98.25% of salary
- PASS (Social Security ceiling) €48,060/year in 2026
- Wealth tax on real estate over €1.3 million (IFI)
Best Cities to Work in Belgium and France
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Belgium
France
How to Find Jobs in Belgium vs France
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
Belgium
Primary platforms for professional and international roles across all sectors.
France
Primary platforms for professional roles. Indeed France has extensive French and international listings.
Popular French platform focused on startups and tech companies with company culture insights.
French Tech Visa Companies
Startups with French Tech Visa label can fast-track hiring of international talent.
Work Visa Options: Belgium vs France
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
Belgium Work Visas
Single Permit (Combined Permit)
Combined work and residence permit for non-EU workers - most common for employment.
EU Blue Card Belgium
For highly qualified workers with higher salary requirements.
Highly Skilled Worker
For workers in shortage occupations or with high qualifications.
Professional Card (Self-Employed)
For self-employed professionals and entrepreneurs.
France Work Visas
Talent Passport (Passeport Talent)
Multi-year visa for highly skilled workers, researchers, artists, and entrepreneurs.
French Tech Visa
Fast-track visa for employees of French Tech-labeled startups.
EU Blue Card France
For highly qualified workers meeting EU-wide standards.
Temporary Worker Visa (Salarié)
For workers with job offers not meeting Talent Passport requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions: Belgium vs France
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Belgium vs France?
The average salary in Belgium is € 54.000 per year, while in France it is 42 800 € per year. This represents a 26.2% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Belgium or France?
Belgium offers 20 days minimum (+ additional by sector) annual leave and 10 public holidays with a 38-40 hours work week. France offers 25 days minimum (5 weeks) annual leave and 11 public holidays with a 35 hours (legal limit) work week.
How does parental leave compare between Belgium and France?
In Belgium, maternity leave is 15 weeks at ~82% salary and paternity leave is 20 days (3 days at 100%, rest at 82%). In France, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 28 days at 100% salary.
Is it better to work in Belgium or France as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Belgium offers: Heart of Europe, Multilingual Environment. France offers: 35-Hour Work Week, Strong Labor Protections. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Belgium and France?
Belgium: Progressive tax system with rates from 25% to 50%. France: Progressive tax system from 0% to 45%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in Belgium or France
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
