Thinking about relocating to Spain or Belgium? This comprehensive Spain vs Belgium 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
-42.6%
Belgium pays more
Spain
31.000 €
avg. salary
Belgium
€ 54.000
avg. salary
Spain vs Belgium Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
31.000 €€ 54.000Median Salary
23.000 €€ 45.000Minimum Wage
17.094 €€ 24.846Top 10%
60.000 €€ 85.000Work-Life Balance: Spain vs Belgium
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
40 hours
38-40 hours
Annual Leave
22-30 days (22 minimum)
20 days minimum (+ additional by sector)
Public Holidays
14 days
10 days
Sick Leave
12-18 months (60-75% salary)
30 days at 100% salary (guaranteed period)
Maternity Leave
16 weeks at 100% salary
15 weeks at ~82% salary
Paternity Leave
16 weeks at 100% salary
20 days (3 days at 100%, rest at 82%)
Spain vs Belgium for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
Spain
Why Work in Spain
Excellent Quality of Life
Mediterranean climate, rich culture, and a lifestyle that prioritizes enjoyment and social connections.
Lower Cost of Living
Housing, food, and daily expenses are significantly cheaper than Northern Europe.
Growing Tech Scene
Barcelona and Madrid have thriving startup ecosystems with increasing international opportunities.
Equal Parental Leave
Both parents receive 16 weeks of fully paid leave, among the most equal in Europe.
Generous Holidays
Up to 14 public holidays plus 22+ vacation days means ample time for rest and travel.
Challenges of Living in Spain
Lower Salaries
Average salaries are significantly lower than in Germany, Netherlands, or France.
High Unemployment
Spain historically has higher unemployment rates, especially among young professionals.
Language Barrier
Spanish is essential for most roles; English-only positions are mainly in multinational companies.
Late Work Hours
Many offices work until 7-8 PM, which may not suit those preferring early finishes.
Temporary Contracts
Temporary employment contracts are common, providing less job security.
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.
Tax Rates Spain vs Belgium
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
Spain
- Progressive tax system from 19% to 47%
- Regional variations in tax rates
- Social security around 6.35% for employees
- Special regime for expats (Beckham Law)
- Two extra salary payments (14 payments/year)
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)
Best Cities to Work in Spain and Belgium
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Spain
Belgium
How to Find Jobs in Spain vs Belgium
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
Spain
Belgium
Primary platforms for professional and international roles across all sectors.
Work Visa Options: Spain vs Belgium
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
Spain Work Visas
Highly Qualified Professional Visa
For skilled workers with job offers in Spain meeting salary thresholds.
Digital Nomad Visa
New visa for remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies.
Entrepreneur Visa
For entrepreneurs planning to start or move a business to Spain.
EU Blue Card Spain
For highly qualified workers with degree and high-salary job offer.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Spain vs Belgium
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Spain vs Belgium?
The average salary in Spain is 31.000 € per year, while in Belgium it is € 54.000 per year. This represents a 42.6% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Spain or Belgium?
Spain offers 22-30 days (22 minimum) annual leave and 14 public holidays with a 40 hours work week. Belgium offers 20 days minimum (+ additional by sector) annual leave and 10 public holidays with a 38-40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between Spain and Belgium?
In Spain, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary. In Belgium, maternity leave is 15 weeks at ~82% salary and paternity leave is 20 days (3 days at 100%, rest at 82%).
Is it better to work in Spain or Belgium as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Spain offers: Excellent Quality of Life, Lower Cost of Living. Belgium offers: Heart of Europe, Multilingual Environment. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Spain and Belgium?
Spain: Progressive tax system from 19% to 47%. Belgium: Progressive tax system with rates from 25% to 50%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in Spain or Belgium
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
