The economic capital of northern Belgium, Antwerp attracts expatriates with its dynamism, international openness, and the diversity of its sectors. Between its globally renowned port, its diamond industry, its fashion and creative scene, and its strength in logistics and chemistry, it offers plentiful career opportunities. Whether you come from Europe or elsewhere, it is certainly possible to settle here for work, provided you are familiar with the procedures, promising sectors, and realities of the local market. Our guide is here to help you.
Antwerp: The diamond of Flanders
Antwerp is the largest city in Belgium in terms of area and population. It is the stronghold of the Dutch-speaking community and the capital of the province of Antwerp. Renowned for its architecture and history, it is especially known worldwide for its diamond industry and its port, which is the second largest in Europe after Rotterdam.
The majority of the Antwerp population is Dutch-speaking. Therefore, if you are looking for a job in Antwerp, you will need to know the basics of this language. Otherwise, you will have to look for international jobs, especially if your main language is English or any other widely spoken language in the world.
It should be noted that the city of Antwerp developed its economy as early as the 16th century when it established itself as a key center in sugar refining. Antwerp began its expansion from the 17th century onwards, thanks to the diamond industry. Oil refineries were built there in the 1920s and 1930s, followed by automobile assembly plants.
The end of World War II saw the growth of Antwerp's economy. The petrochemical industry developed massively there after the war, as did the automobile industry. Chemical plants only became part of Antwerp's economy in the 1960s.
The economy of Antwerp
Antwerp is now one of the most important ports in Europe (2nd behind Rotterdam), connected to over 130 countries. Today, the port directly or indirectly supports about 160,000 jobs in logistics, transport, petrochemical industry, and trade; making it a major driver of the Belgian economy.
Overall, the Antwerp economy accounts for 1/6th of Belgium's GDP, which means it is even more vital to the world than to the nation itself. Moreover, 1/8th of the Flemish population is employed in Antwerp, which speaks volumes about the employment opportunities available there.
Antwerp remains the global diamond center, with 4 world exchanges and more than 1,000 specialized companies. Legend has it that the very first cut diamond in the world was made here in 1476. The label “Cut in Antwerp” guarantees the quality of stones cut on site. If you dream of working in jewelry, gemstone trade, or even in a more technical sector related to the diamond value chain, Antwerp is clearly the place to be.
Antwerp is also known as a major fashion center. While the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp is recognized as one of the oldest universities in the world, its fashion faculty is one of the best institutes globally! Moreover, there are numerous stores offering luxury clothing, including those on the Antwerp Fashion Walk. Antwerp is thus the perfect place for those aspiring to pursue a career in fashion, as it provides a wealth of experience.
Alongside fashion, marketing and public relations are major industry sectors in Antwerp. In fact, some of the best European agencies are based here. Antwerp offers excellent opportunities to kick-start your career in this field.
It should also be noted that most people in Antwerp work in the service sector. This accounts for 75% of the activity in Antwerp. Considering the vast job opportunities in this sector, it will be relatively easy for you to find work there.
For those of you looking to work in the agricultural sector in Antwerp and Flanders, unfortunately, you will not find work there. You will have a much easier time finding a job in the service sectors and other industries.
Companies in Antwerp and Flanders
Belgium has a certain expertise in the chemical industry and is renowned worldwide for it. It is therefore not surprising to find 140 companies in this industry established in the country. Flanders is home to all the major players in this sector: BASF, Recticel, Bayer Antwerp, Solvay, Agfa-Gevaert, UCB, GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals, and Eurogentec among others. Scientists looking for a job in Belgium are more than welcome in Flanders.
Flanders is also an expert in horticulture. Flemish decorative horticulture makes up 95% of Belgian production. Flemish expertise in this field is recognized worldwide. Some companies in this sector include Brinkman, MDS Parts, Bogaerts Tuinmachines, and Ipsam.
The distribution sector is also very important in Belgium. About 10% of the active population works in it. Flanders is home to major distribution groups such as Carrefour, Colruyt, and Delhaize.
Being the second port in Europe, Antwerp is also very dynamic in the logistics sector. Consolidation, storage, and freight have indeed developed thanks to the port activity. This gives Belgium skills that other countries do not necessarily have. Some of the best logistics companies found in Antwerp include Maersk, DHL, FedEx, TNT Express, Panalpina, Dematic, DP World, and NMBS.
Job hunting in Antwerp
If you are looking for work in Antwerp, the Flemish Employment and Training Service (VDAB, Vlaamse Dienst voor Arbeidsbemiddeling en Beroepsopleiding) is your first ally. This Flemish public employment service allows you to create a profile, post your CV online, receive personalized offers, and even benefit from support from an advisor. Free training is also offered if you wish to enhance your skills before applying.
In parallel, many local recruitment agencies, such as Randstad, Adecco, or Accent Jobs, can help you target relevant offers. Do not hesitate to make an appointment for an interview: their advisors are used to assisting expatriates.
Moreover, it is common for headhunters to find candidates on LinkedIn. So, if you do not yet have an active profile there, we highly recommend creating one now. Make sure to complete it so that potential employers and headhunters can find your best qualities and contact you if they think you are a good candidate.
LinkedIn is also a good platform for job searching. The platform has a very comprehensive job search function where you can, for example, enter keywords like "Antwerp" or the name of the sector or type of career that might interest you. LinkedIn will then show you the most relevant offers. You can also get help with writing your CV and sharpening your interview skills. You can thus fully utilize these features to increase your chances of landing a job in Belgium.
Work permits in Belgium
If you come from a European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) country, or Switzerland, you will not need a work permit. As such, you have the right to move freely in certain European countries. This can make your application even more attractive to some employers, as they will not have to go through the additional step of obtaining a work permit for you; they can simply hire you immediately.
However, if you are not from one of the EU/EEA countries, it will be more difficult but not impossible to find a job in Antwerp. Depending on your situation, you may need to obtain a work permit "A", "B", or "C" for this.
Work culture in Antwerp
As an expatriate, you might be worried and/or curious about the work culture in Antwerp, especially if you are not familiar with Belgians. True to their melting-pot nature, Belgian workplaces are a mix of French and Dutch styles.
Generally, most companies maintain a top-down approach, typically French. At the same time, you will also find that an increasing number of companies are adopting a Dutch approach. With this type of horizontal organization, superiors are not solely responsible for all decisions. Everyone has a more or less equal voice at work, meaning that employees have a say in the direction the company takes.
Salaries in Antwerp
The gross minimum wage in Belgium is around €2,110 per month. However, you should know that the country has one of the highest tax rates, which can range from 25 to 50% depending on your salary.
A Flemish employee earns an average of €4,000 gross per month, depending on the type of position. For those in the diamond or biotechnology sector, salary scales can reach €5,000 - €6,000, depending on experience and responsibilities. You will thus lead an excellent lifestyle if you work in Antwerp.
Taxes in Belgium
Naturally, you will have to pay taxes on the income you earn in Belgium. Here, income is subject to a progressive tax, with rates ranging from 25% to 50% depending on income brackets. The exact amount you will pay depends on your salary and your residence status.
If you are a Belgian tax resident, you will be taxed on all your worldwide income. If you are a non-resident, only Belgian income will be taxed.
The tax administration will automatically contact you to inform you if you are taxable. The declaration deadline is June 30 each year.
Note also that expatriates benefit from certain tax deductions to help them adjust to their new life in Belgium. If you are eligible, you can claim up to €11,000 per year.
Getting to work in Antwerp
In Antwerp, don't even think about commuting by car!
Antwerp was ranked number three on the list of most congested Belgian cities. According to the annual TomTom Traffic Index for 2024, Antwerp is the third most congested city in Belgium, between Brussels and Ghent.
The Port of Antwerp acknowledges the massive traffic problem in the city. The authorities therefore aim to reduce the number of drivers on the road by 10% by 2030. Their main initiative involves the development of alternatives to commuting other than by car.
There is thus an unconventional way to get to work in Antwerp, the Waterbus! It is a transportation mode that takes advantage of the water around the Port of Antwerp. This service was first launched in July 2017 to reduce peak hour traffic on Antwerp's ring roads.
It connects commuters to the cities of Hemiksem, Hoboken, Kruibeke, and, most importantly, downtown Antwerp. There is a departure every 30 minutes, making it a very convenient mode of transport.
Like their neighbors in the Netherlands, Belgians often commute by bicycle, thanks to the fantastic cycling infrastructure in the country. You can therefore consider this mode of transportation to avoid heavy traffic and also to keep fit.
You can also use public transportation to get to and from work. If you are coming from another city, you can always take the train and/or the tram. Once in Antwerp, De Lijn buses run between different communes and the Port of Antwerp. If you opt for public transportation, make sure your employer reimburses you. The employer is legally required to pay for your tickets, at least partially. Some more generous employers will pay for your entire subscription.
There is also what is called collective transport. Collective transport is specifically created to fit employees' working hours. It is a good alternative if your work schedule does not match those of public transport. It is a unique service at the Port of Antwerp, and just under 10% of employees commute this way. Many companies offer collective transport, so it is worth checking with your employer.
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