Living & Accommodation in Belgium for Pakistani Students

Belgium is not just famous for its universities — it’s also known for its vibrant cities, rich cultural diversity, and high quality of life. For Pakistani students, studying in Belgium offers a blend of modern European living and traditional charm. The country provides safe, comfortable, and student-friendly environments that make settling in much easier for international students.

This article explores the living conditions, housing options, cost of living, cultural lifestyle, and practical tips to help Pakistani students adapt smoothly to life in Belgium.

Student Life in Belgium

Belgium offers an engaging and inclusive student life. Cities such as Leuven, Ghent, Brussels, and Liège are filled with international students, creating a truly multicultural environment.

Universities in Belgium organize:

Orientation programs for new students
Cultural and networking events
Student associations (including Pakistani student groups)
Volunteering and sports activities

The Belgian lifestyle promotes a healthy balance between academics and recreation, ensuring that students not only study but also enjoy their time in Europe.

Cost of Living in Belgium

The cost of living in Belgium is moderate compared to other Western European countries. On average, a Pakistani student requires €800–€1,200 per month to cover living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation.

Expense Category	Average Monthly Cost (€)	Remarks
Accommodation	400 – 700	Depends on city & housing type
Food & Groceries	250 – 400	Cooking at home reduces cost
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, etc.)	100 – 150	Shared among flatmates
Transportation	30 – 60	Student discounts available
Leisure & Miscellaneous	100 – 200	Movies, travel, etc.
Total Estimated Cost	€900 – €1,200	(Rs. 280,000 – 370,000 approx.)

Note: Cities like Leuven and Ghent are cheaper than Brussels, where rent and transport are slightly higher.

Accommodation Options for Pakistani Students

Belgium offers various types of student housing to match different budgets and lifestyles.

Accommodation Type	Monthly Cost (€)	Description
University Dormitory (Kot)	300 – 500	Affordable and convenient; managed by the university
Private Apartment	500 – 800	Independent living; ideal for senior students
Shared Flat (Flatshare)	400 – 600	Popular choice among international students
Host Family / Homestay	400 – 600	Great for cultural immersion and language learning

Tip: The word “Kot” (pronounced koht) is commonly used in Belgium to describe student rooms. Many universities, such as KU Leuven and Ghent University, provide online housing platforms for international students.

How to Find Accommodation

Pakistani students can find accommodation through several reliable sources:

University Housing Office – Most universities reserve rooms for international students.
Online Portals – Websites like be, Immoweb.be, and Appartager.be list available student rooms.
Facebook Groups – Many student groups post shared housing offers and recommendations.
Private Agencies – Can help find apartments for a small service fee.

It’s best to start searching 2–3 months before arrival, as housing fills up quickly near semester start dates (August–September).

Food & Dining in Belgium

Belgium offers diverse food options, from traditional European cuisine to international restaurants. Pakistani students will be delighted to find Halal restaurants and grocery stores easily available in cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent.

Cooking at home is the most budget-friendly option — monthly grocery costs average €200–€300. Supermarkets like Carrefour, Lidl, Aldi, and Colruyt offer affordable food and essentials.

Popular Belgian dishes to try include:

Frites (Belgian Fries)
Waffles
Moules-Frites (Mussels with Fries)
Chocolate and Pastries

Transportation for Students

Belgium has one of Europe’s best public transportation systems — trains, trams, and buses connect all major cities efficiently.

Monthly student pass: €30–€50
Bicycle rentals: €15–€30/month
Train discounts: Up to 50% with student ID

Many students prefer cycling, especially in cities like Leuven and Ghent, where bike lanes are everywhere and cycling is part of the student culture.

Health and Safety

Belgium is among the safest countries in Europe, with a low crime rate and excellent healthcare.

Health Insurance: Mandatory for all international students (€400–€600/year).
Emergency Services: Dial 112 for immediate assistance.
Pharmacies: Easily accessible and well-stocked.

Universities also offer mental health support, counseling, and academic assistance for international students adjusting to life abroad.

Cultural and Social Life

Belgium’s social life is vibrant and diverse. Students can participate in:

Music and cultural festivals
Student clubs and societies
European travel (France, Netherlands, Germany nearby)
Volunteering and language exchange programs

Pakistani students can also connect through Pakistani student associations and community events, ensuring a home-away-from-home experience.

Conclusion

Living in Belgium offers Pakistani students a truly enriching experience — combining academic excellence with a comfortable European lifestyle. With affordable housing options, a safe environment, and a welcoming multicultural community, Belgium ensures that international students feel at home from day one.

By planning accommodation early, managing budgets smartly, and embracing local culture, Pakistani students can make the most of their study abroad journey in Belgium — academically, socially, and personally.