Coliving in Brussels for Expats

Why Expats Choose Coliving

Every year, tens of thousands of expats arrive in Brussels to work at EU institutions, international organizations, multinational companies, and startups. For most, finding housing is the single most stressful part of relocating.

The traditional Belgian rental market was not designed for newcomers. Landlords typically require a Belgian bank account, a Belgian guarantor or co-signer, and a commitment to a lease of at least one year. If you are arriving from abroad with no local connections, this can feel like an impossible barrier.

Coliving eliminates all of these obstacles. Operators like Cohabs, Corners, and Habyt are built specifically for mobile professionals. No guarantor, no complex paperwork, and flexible lease terms starting from just one month with some providers.

The Benefits of Coliving for Expats

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  No guarantor required. Most coliving operators only ask for a security deposit (typically one or two months rent). No Belgian co-signer, no employer guarantee letters.
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  Instant community. Moving to a new city is lonely. Coliving gives you housemates from day one — people who are often in the same boat as you. Shared dinners, events, and common spaces make it easy to build a social network quickly.
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  Flexible leases. Not sure how long you will stay in Brussels? Many operators like LiveColonies and Neybor offer month-to-month or three-month contracts. No need to commit to a full year on day one.
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  All-inclusive pricing. Utilities, Wi-Fi, cleaning, maintenance — it is all included. No surprise bills, no arguing with flatmates about who used more electricity.
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  Fully furnished. Everything from bed linen to kitchen utensils is provided. You can literally arrive with a suitcase and move in the same day.

Tips for EU Expats

If you hold an EU passport, moving to Brussels is relatively straightforward. You have the right to live and work in Belgium without a visa. However, you still need to register at your local commune within eight days of moving in — and coliving operators can help with this process by providing the necessary address documentation.

Popular neighborhoods for EU workers include Etterbeek (close to the EU Quarter), Ixelles (vibrant and central), and Woluwe-Saint-Lambert (quieter, more residential). Operators like Colive and Ikoab have properties in several of these areas.

Tips for Non-EU Expats

If you are coming from outside the EU, the process involves a few extra steps. You will need a valid work permit or visa before arriving, and the commune registration process can take longer. Having a fixed address from day one — which coliving provides — is essential for getting your paperwork in order.

Coliving is especially valuable for non-EU expats because it removes the need for a Belgian guarantor, which is nearly impossible to find when you have no local network. Operators like Morton Place and Habyt are experienced in welcoming international residents and can guide you through the process.