Thinking about relocating to Belgium or Spain? This comprehensive Belgium vs Spain comparison covers everything expats and international workers need to know: average salaries, tax rates, work-life balance, annual leave policies, maternity and paternity leave, and cost of living considerations. Whether you're a software developer, engineer, or professional considering a move to Europe, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Average Salary Difference
+74.2%
Belgium pays more
Belgium
€ 54.000
avg. salary
Spain
31.000 €
avg. salary
Belgium vs Spain Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
€ 54.00031.000 €Median Salary
€ 45.00023.000 €Minimum Wage
€ 24.84617.094 €Top 10%
€ 85.00060.000 €Work-Life Balance: Belgium vs Spain
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
38-40 hours
40 hours
Annual Leave
20 days minimum (+ additional by sector)
22-30 days (22 minimum)
Public Holidays
10 days
14 days
Sick Leave
30 days at 100% salary (guaranteed period)
12-18 months (60-75% salary)
Maternity Leave
15 weeks at ~82% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
20 days (3 days at 100%, rest at 82%)
16 weeks at 100% salary
Belgium vs Spain for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
Belgium
Why Work in Belgium
Heart of Europe
Central location with easy access to Paris, London, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt. Home to EU institutions.
Multilingual Environment
Three official languages (Dutch, French, German) make it easy for internationals to integrate.
Strong Social Security
Comprehensive healthcare, pension, and unemployment benefits. High level of worker protection.
Excellent Quality of Life
World-renowned cuisine, rich cultural heritage, and good work-life balance.
International Business Hub
Many multinational headquarters and EU institutions offer English-speaking career opportunities.
Challenges of Living in Belgium
High Tax Burden
One of the highest income tax rates in Europe, with top marginal rate of 50%.
Complex Tax System
Regional variations (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels) add complexity to tax calculations.
Language Barriers
Different regions require different languages; some jobs require bilingual or trilingual skills.
Traffic Congestion
Belgium has some of the worst traffic jams in Europe, especially around Brussels and Antwerp.
Weather
Similar to Netherlands - often grey and rainy, which can be challenging for newcomers.
Spain
Why Work in Spain
Excellent Quality of Life
Mediterranean climate, rich culture, and a lifestyle that prioritizes enjoyment and social connections.
Lower Cost of Living
Housing, food, and daily expenses are significantly cheaper than Northern Europe.
Growing Tech Scene
Barcelona and Madrid have thriving startup ecosystems with increasing international opportunities.
Equal Parental Leave
Both parents receive 16 weeks of fully paid leave, among the most equal in Europe.
Generous Holidays
Up to 14 public holidays plus 22+ vacation days means ample time for rest and travel.
Challenges of Living in Spain
Lower Salaries
Average salaries are significantly lower than in Germany, Netherlands, or France.
High Unemployment
Spain historically has higher unemployment rates, especially among young professionals.
Language Barrier
Spanish is essential for most roles; English-only positions are mainly in multinational companies.
Late Work Hours
Many offices work until 7-8 PM, which may not suit those preferring early finishes.
Temporary Contracts
Temporary employment contracts are common, providing less job security.
Tax Rates Belgium vs Spain
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
Belgium
- Progressive tax system with rates from 25% to 50%
- Tax-free allowance of EUR 10,570 (indexed)
- Social security contribution of 13.07%
- Work bonus for low-wage workers
- Regional tax variations (Flanders job bonus)
Spain
- Progressive tax system from 19% to 47%
- Regional variations in tax rates
- Social security around 6.35% for employees
- Special regime for expats (Beckham Law)
- Two extra salary payments (14 payments/year)
Best Cities to Work in Belgium and Spain
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Belgium
Spain
How to Find Jobs in Belgium vs Spain
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
Belgium
Primary platforms for professional and international roles across all sectors.
Spain
Work Visa Options: Belgium vs Spain
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
Belgium Work Visas
Single Permit (Combined Permit)
Combined work and residence permit for non-EU workers - most common for employment.
EU Blue Card Belgium
For highly qualified workers with higher salary requirements.
Highly Skilled Worker
For workers in shortage occupations or with high qualifications.
Professional Card (Self-Employed)
For self-employed professionals and entrepreneurs.
Spain Work Visas
Highly Qualified Professional Visa
For skilled workers with job offers in Spain meeting salary thresholds.
Digital Nomad Visa
New visa for remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies.
Entrepreneur Visa
For entrepreneurs planning to start or move a business to Spain.
EU Blue Card Spain
For highly qualified workers with degree and high-salary job offer.
Frequently Asked Questions: Belgium vs Spain
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Belgium vs Spain?
The average salary in Belgium is € 54.000 per year, while in Spain it is 31.000 € per year. This represents a 74.2% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Belgium or Spain?
Belgium offers 20 days minimum (+ additional by sector) annual leave and 10 public holidays with a 38-40 hours work week. Spain offers 22-30 days (22 minimum) annual leave and 14 public holidays with a 40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between Belgium and Spain?
In Belgium, maternity leave is 15 weeks at ~82% salary and paternity leave is 20 days (3 days at 100%, rest at 82%). In Spain, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary.
Is it better to work in Belgium or Spain as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Belgium offers: Heart of Europe, Multilingual Environment. Spain offers: Excellent Quality of Life, Lower Cost of Living. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Belgium and Spain?
Belgium: Progressive tax system with rates from 25% to 50%. Spain: Progressive tax system from 19% to 47%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in Belgium or Spain
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
