Mechelen

Mechelen is a picturesque city located in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, and is known for its historical significance and well-preserved medieval architecture. The city is characterized by its charming streets, vibrant market squares, and a rich cultural scene. At the heart of Mechelen lies the St. Rumbold's Cathedral, with its impressive tower offering panoramic views of the city and beyond. Mechelen is also home to several museums, including the Technopolis, a hands-on science museum, and the Kazerne Dossin, a memorial center dedicated to the Holocaust and human rights. The city's parks and gardens provide peaceful retreats, while the Dijle river that runs through Mechelen adds to its scenic beauty. With a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, the city caters to a range of tastes and preferences. Mechelen is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and child-friendliness, making it an attractive place to live and visit for families and environmentally conscious individuals alike. Despite its relatively small size, Mechelen offers a blend of historical charm and contemporary living, making it a unique and inviting destination in Belgium.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

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SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency in Belgium involves several steps and the process can vary depending on the type of visa one is applying for. For expats, the most common types of residency visas include the Professional Card and the Family Reunification Visa. The Professional Card is for those who want to work as self-employed individuals in Belgium. To obtain this, applicants must demonstrate that their business activities will be beneficial to the Belgian economy. The process involves submitting a detailed business plan, proof of sufficient funds to support oneself, and relevant professional experience. The Family Reunification Visa is for individuals who have family members residing in Belgium. Applicants must prove their relationship with the resident and that the resident can support them financially. The general process for obtaining a residency visa in Belgium starts with submitting an application to the Belgian consulate or embassy in one's home country. This includes completing the necessary forms, providing a valid passport, and submitting additional documents such as proof of health insurance, a certificate of good conduct, and evidence of accommodation in Belgium. After the initial approval, one may need to undergo a medical examination. Once in Belgium, the applicant must register with the local municipality, which involves providing biometric data and receiving a residence card. The difficulty of the process can be considered average, but it requires careful preparation of documents and an understanding of the specific requirements for the chosen visa category. It is advisable to start the application process well in advance of the intended move date, as processing times can vary. Additionally, proficiency in one of Belgium's official languages (Dutch, French, or German) can be beneficial during the application process and for integration into Belgian society.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Mechelen is moderate compared to other Belgian cities, with housing, food, and transportation costs reflecting the standard of living in the region.

Weather

The weather in Mechelen is typical of the maritime climate of Western Europe, with mild to cool winters and warm summers, and precipitation spread throughout the year.

Healthcare in Mechelen

Mechelen is home to the AZ Sint-Maarten hospital, a modern and comprehensive healthcare facility that provides a wide range of medical services to the region. It is a new hospital that consolidated three former hospitals into one state-of-the-art institution, ensuring high-quality healthcare and accessibility for residents and visitors.

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