Thinking about relocating to France or Belgium? This comprehensive France vs Belgium 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
-20.7%
Belgium pays more
France
42 800 €
avg. salary
Belgium
€ 54.000
avg. salary
France vs Belgium Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
42 800 €€ 54.000Median Salary
36 000 €€ 45.000Minimum Wage
21 876 €€ 24.846Top 10%
70 000 €€ 85.000Work-Life Balance: France vs Belgium
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
35 hours (legal limit)
38-40 hours
Annual Leave
25 days minimum (5 weeks)
20 days minimum (+ additional by sector)
Public Holidays
11 days
10 days
Sick Leave
Unlimited (50% from Social Security + employer top-up)
30 days at 100% salary (guaranteed period)
Maternity Leave
16 weeks at 100% salary
15 weeks at ~82% salary
Paternity Leave
28 days at 100% salary
20 days (3 days at 100%, rest at 82%)
France vs Belgium for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
France
Why Work in France
35-Hour Work Week
France has one of the shortest legal work weeks in Europe, promoting excellent work-life balance.
Strong Labor Protections
Extensive worker rights, including protection against unfair dismissal and strong union representation.
Excellent Healthcare
One of the world's best healthcare systems, with most costs covered by social security.
Generous Parental Leave
Comprehensive maternity, paternity, and parental leave policies supporting families.
Quality of Life
Rich culture, excellent food, and a lifestyle that prioritizes enjoyment and personal time.
Challenges of Living in France
High Tax Burden
Combined income tax and social contributions can reach 45% or more of gross salary.
Language Requirement
French is essential for most workplaces; English-only positions are limited mainly to Paris.
Complex Bureaucracy
French administration is notoriously complex and often requires patience and paperwork.
Lower Salaries Than Neighbors
Compared to Germany or Netherlands, French salaries can be lower in similar roles.
Rigid Labor Market
Strong protections can make it harder to find positions as employers are cautious about hiring.
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.
Tax Rates France vs Belgium
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
France
- Progressive tax system from 0% to 45%
- Family quotient system reduces tax for families
- CSG (9.2%) and CRDS (0.5%) on 98.25% of salary
- PASS (Social Security ceiling) €48,060/year in 2026
- Wealth tax on real estate over €1.3 million (IFI)
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)
Best Cities to Work in France and Belgium
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
France
Belgium
How to Find Jobs in France vs Belgium
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
France
Primary platforms for professional roles. Indeed France has extensive French and international listings.
Popular French platform focused on startups and tech companies with company culture insights.
French Tech Visa Companies
Startups with French Tech Visa label can fast-track hiring of international talent.
Belgium
Primary platforms for professional and international roles across all sectors.
Work Visa Options: France vs Belgium
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
France Work Visas
Talent Passport (Passeport Talent)
Multi-year visa for highly skilled workers, researchers, artists, and entrepreneurs.
French Tech Visa
Fast-track visa for employees of French Tech-labeled startups.
EU Blue Card France
For highly qualified workers meeting EU-wide standards.
Temporary Worker Visa (Salarié)
For workers with job offers not meeting Talent Passport requirements.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: France vs Belgium
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in France vs Belgium?
The average salary in France is 42 800 € per year, while in Belgium it is € 54.000 per year. This represents a 20.7% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: France or Belgium?
France offers 25 days minimum (5 weeks) annual leave and 11 public holidays with a 35 hours (legal limit) work week. Belgium offers 20 days minimum (+ additional by sector) annual leave and 10 public holidays with a 38-40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between France and Belgium?
In France, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 28 days at 100% salary. In Belgium, maternity leave is 15 weeks at ~82% salary and paternity leave is 20 days (3 days at 100%, rest at 82%).
Is it better to work in France or Belgium as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. France offers: 35-Hour Work Week, Strong Labor Protections. Belgium offers: Heart of Europe, Multilingual Environment. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between France and Belgium?
France: Progressive tax system from 0% to 45%. Belgium: Progressive tax system with rates from 25% to 50%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in France or Belgium
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
