16 Oct 2024
Moving abroad might seem like an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially when planning travel and settling within a new country. Many Filipinos travel to Belgium to work hard and make an online money transfer from Belgium to Philippines to support their loved ones back home. For such expats, securing the right flight and understanding the travel process are essential initial steps. Whether you're moving for work, education, or family, this guide will help you navigate the journey from the Philippines to Belgium smoothly.
Belgium, located in the heart of Europe, is a culturally rich country known for its historical cities, diverse population, and higher standard of living. It offers excellent job opportunities, world-class education, and a welcoming environment for international migrants, making it an attractive destination for Filipinos seeking new prospects abroad.
You might wonder why Belgium is the most attractive place; let’s dig deeper.
Belgium strongly demands professionals in various fields like healthcare, engineering, and information technology.
Many Filipino students pursue higher education in Belgium's prestigious universities.
Belgium's multicultural cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent offer a vibrant international community.
Whether you're relocating for work, studies, or to earn a livelihood, helping you to make a regular money transfer from Belgium to Philippines, your journey begins with finding the right flight to Belgium.
Before booking a flight, planning is essential, considering factors such as visa requirements, flight routes, and baggage policies. Here's what you need to know:
To enter Belgium, Filipino citizens need a visa. The primary visa options for long-term stays include:
If you're moving to Belgium for employment, you will need a work visa, which your employer arranges.
Students must apply for a visa, typically granted upon proof of admission to a Belgian university.
This is for those joining family members already residing in Belgium.
Your visa must be approved before booking your flight. You can review the detailed application requirements on the official Embassy of Belgium in Manila website if you still need a visa.
While there are no direct flights from the Philippines to Belgium, several airlines offer convenient connecting flights through major hubs in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The most common layover cities include Dubai, Doha, and Amsterdam. Popular Airlines Flying from the Philippines to Belgium:
Offers connecting flights through partner airlines in Asia or Europe.
Flights from Manila with a layover in Doha before arriving in Brussels.
Flights from Manila with a layover in Dubai before arriving in Brussels or Antwerp.
Connects through Amsterdam, a short train ride from Brussels or Antwerp
While the listed airlines are popular, many offer flights from the Philippines to Belgium. These include Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and more. It's best to use a flight comparison website (like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights) to see all available options and save up money, which will come in handy when you send money online to the Philippines from Belgium.
Belgium has several international airports, so it's essential to choose the one that best suits your final destination:
Belgium's most significant and busiest airport is just outside Brussels's capital. This is the most common point of arrival for international flights.
A smaller airport located in the port city of Antwerp, often served by regional and European flights.
Located in Charleroi, this airport mainly serves low-cost carriers and is a good option for those traveling on a budget.
Most Filipinos arriving in Belgium fly into Brussels Airport, which is well connected to the rest of the country by train and bus services.
The flight time from Manila to Brussels typically ranges between 15 to 18 hours, depending on the layover duration. Costs can vary depending on the season, with peak times like Christmas or summer months being more expensive.
Round-trip flights from Manila to Brussels generally range from PHP 35,000 to PHP 70,000, depending on the time of booking and airline choice. As an expat, spending mindfully and booking flights in advance is advised to save significantly on ticket prices. With services like ACE Money Transfer, you can secure the best deals on flights and home remittances when paired with the cheapest way to send money from Belgium to the Philippines.
When flying internationally, it's essential to understand the baggage allowances and customs regulations, especially when relocating with personal belongings.
Most international flights offer a standard checked baggage allowance of 23-30 kg and carry-on luggage of 7-10 kg. For precise details, don't hesitate to contact your airline directly.
Be aware of the items you are allowed to bring into Belgium. Certain goods, such as food, plants, and large sums of money, are restricted. For detailed customs information, visit the Belgian Customs website.
Moving to a new country involves more than just booking a flight. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for your journey to Belgium:
Given Belgium's cooler climate, pack clothing suitable for various seasons. Belgium has cold winters and mild summers, so bring warm jackets, scarves, and layers. Don't forget essentials such as documents, electronics, and medications.
Belgium has three official languages. Dutch, French, and German, depending on the region. Brussels is bilingual (Dutch and French). Learning basic phrases in French or Dutch can help you navigate daily life more easily.
Accommodation in Belgium can be competitive, especially in Brussels or Antwerp. It's advisable to secure a place to stay before your arrival. Websites like Immoweb or Expatriates.com can help you find apartments or shared accommodations.
Belgium has an excellent healthcare system, but expats must register with a local health insurance provider. Until you are registered, ensure you have travel health insurance for the first few weeks of your stay.
For many Filipinos moving abroad, the practice to send money online to Philippines from Belgium is a crucial financial responsibility they have towards their families. While traditional banks offer international transfer services, they often have high fees and unfavorable exchange rates. Instead, many Filipinos use remittance services like ACE Money Transfer.
Following are some of the reasons why you should use ACE Money Transfer:
ACE provides better exchange rates than most traditional banks.
Affordable transaction fees ensure more money reaches your loved ones.
Funds can quickly reach recipients in the Philippines, making it ideal for urgent financial needs.
ACE offers safe and secure money transfers, giving you peace of mind.
Using ACE Money Transfer ensures that sending money home is cost-effective and reliable.
Once you arrive in Belgium, you must go through immigration and customs checks. Ensure all your documents, including your passport, visa, and any additional paperwork related to your stay (such as proof of accommodation or university admission) are ready.
At the airport, Belgian immigration officers will check your visa, passport, and reason for entry. If requested, be ready to show proof of accommodation or the purpose of your stay.
Belgium has a well-connected public transport system. You can take the train from Brussels Airport directly to the city center or other major cities like Antwerp, Ghent, or Bruges. Taxis and buses are also available outside the terminal.
Register with your local commune or municipality within eight days of arrival. This is mandatory for all foreigners staying in Belgium for more than 90 days.
Careful planning and preparation are critical to a smooth transition for Filipinos moving to Belgium. From booking the right flight to understanding visa requirements and customs regulations, this guide provides the essential steps for a successful move. To ensure your financial responsibilities are met, consider using ACE Money Transfer to send money to Philippines From Belgium. With competitive rates, fast transactions, and secure services, ACE is the ideal solution for managing your remittances abroad.
There are no direct flights from the Philippines to Belgium, but common layover cities include Dubai, Doha, and Amsterdam. Famous airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines offer convenient connecting flights to Brussels.
A round-trip flight from Manila to Brussels typically costs between PHP 35,000 and PHP 70,000, depending on the season and how early you book. For better rates, it's best to book in advance.
The main international airport in Belgium is Brussels Airport (BRU), the most common entry point for international flights. For regional or budget flights, consider Antwerp International Airport (ANR) or Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL).
Depending on your reason for moving, you will need a valid passport, an approved visa (such as a work, student, or family reunion visa), and any additional documentation, such as a job offer or proof of university admission.
ACE Money Transfer is a reliable and cost-effective way to send money from Belgium to the Philippines. ACE offers competitive exchange rates, low fees, and fast transfer times, ensuring your funds reach your family securely and affordably.
