Thinking about relocating to Belgium or Germany? This comprehensive Belgium vs Germany 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
+3.8%
Belgium pays more
Belgium
€ 54.000
avg. salary
Germany
52.000 €
avg. salary
Belgium vs Germany Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
€ 54.00052.000 €Median Salary
€ 45.00044.000 €Minimum Wage
€ 24.84624.960 €Top 10%
€ 85.00080.000 €Work-Life Balance: Belgium vs Germany
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
38-40 hours
35-40 hours
Annual Leave
20 days minimum (+ additional by sector)
20-30 days (minimum 20 days)
Public Holidays
10 days
9 days
Sick Leave
30 days at 100% salary (guaranteed period)
6 weeks at 100%, then 70% (up to 78 weeks)
Maternity Leave
15 weeks at ~82% salary
14 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
20 days (3 days at 100%, rest at 82%)
Up to 14 months parental leave (shared)
Belgium vs Germany 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.
Germany
Why Work in Germany
Strong Job Security
German labor laws provide excellent protection against unfair dismissal and strong worker rights.
Excellent Engineering & Tech Sector
World-renowned industries offering cutting-edge work in automotive, manufacturing, and technology.
Quality Healthcare
Universal healthcare system with high-quality medical care and reasonable costs.
Central European Hub
Excellent transportation networks and central location for European travel and business.
Strong Economy
Stable economy with low unemployment and consistent growth opportunities.
Challenges of Living in Germany
High Tax Burden
Combined income tax and social security contributions can reach 42-45% of gross salary.
Language Barrier
Unlike the Netherlands, German is often required in the workplace, especially outside major cities.
Bureaucracy
German bureaucracy can be challenging, with many processes requiring in-person visits and German documents.
Church Tax
Members of certain religions pay an additional 8-9% church tax on income tax.
Complex Tax System
Six tax classes and numerous deductions make understanding your net salary complicated.
Tax Rates Belgium vs Germany
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)
Germany
- Progressive tax system from 14% to 45%
- Six tax classes based on marital status
- Optional church tax (8-9% of income tax)
- Solidarity surcharge for high earners
- Social security split between employer and employee
Best Cities to Work in Belgium and Germany
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Belgium
Germany
How to Find Jobs in Belgium vs Germany
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
Belgium
Primary platforms for professional and international roles across all sectors.
Germany
LinkedIn for international roles, Xing is Germany's local professional network essential for German-speaking positions.
Major German job portals with extensive listings across all industries and experience levels.
Official government portal with job listings and comprehensive immigration information.
Official job portal with verified positions and support services for job seekers.
German Recruitment Agencies
Agencies like Robert Half, Hays Germany, and Kienbaum help place international professionals.
Work Visa Options: Belgium vs Germany
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.
Germany Work Visas
EU Blue Card
For highly qualified workers. Germany issues most EU Blue Cards in Europe.
Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräftevisum)
For qualified professionals with vocational training or university degree.
Job Seeker Visa
Allows qualified professionals to enter Germany and search for work.
IT Specialist Visa
Special visa for IT professionals without formal degrees but with practical experience.
Frequently Asked Questions: Belgium vs Germany
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Belgium vs Germany?
The average salary in Belgium is € 54.000 per year, while in Germany it is 52.000 € per year. This represents a 3.8% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Belgium or Germany?
Belgium offers 20 days minimum (+ additional by sector) annual leave and 10 public holidays with a 38-40 hours work week. Germany offers 20-30 days (minimum 20 days) annual leave and 9 public holidays with a 35-40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between Belgium and Germany?
In Belgium, maternity leave is 15 weeks at ~82% salary and paternity leave is 20 days (3 days at 100%, rest at 82%). In Germany, maternity leave is 14 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is Up to 14 months parental leave (shared).
Is it better to work in Belgium or Germany as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Belgium offers: Heart of Europe, Multilingual Environment. Germany offers: Strong Job Security, Excellent Engineering & Tech Sector. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Belgium and Germany?
Belgium: Progressive tax system with rates from 25% to 50%. Germany: Progressive tax system from 14% 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 Germany
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
