Emigrating from Croatia to Belgium: tax and cost of living

Compared by dimension

On an average Croatia income of €20,400 gross per year, you keep €15,178 net in Belgium: a difference of €682 per year compared with Croatia.

• Tax: on this income Belgium lands at an effective rate of about 26%, against 29% in Croatia.
• Passport and mobility: from Belgium you travel visa-free to 186 countries.
• Residency: on our accessibility scale Belgium scores 90 out of 100 for obtaining residency.
• Living environment: banking, internet, safety and healthcare together give Belgium a living-environment score of 73 out of 100.

The tax regime in Belgium

Belgium has one of the EU's highest top rates at 50% above 46,440 EUR, plus municipal surcharges averaging 7%. Employee social contributions are around 13.07% of gross salary.

Residency and visas in Belgium

EU citizens can freely settle in Belgium and apply for permanent residency after 5 years. Non-EU citizens need a permit via work, family reunification, or other routes.

• EU Free Movement - Verblijfsrecht EU-burger · 5 years to permanent residency
• Arbeidskaart / Permis de Travail (Work Permit non-EU) · 5 years to permanent residency
• Familiehereniging / Regroupement familial · 5 years to permanent residency

Frequently asked questions

What is the financial difference between Croatia and Belgium?

On an average Croatia income it differs by roughly €682 net per year. Your own figure depends on your income and situation; calculate it with the free freedom check.

Is this tax advice?

No. Libaros compares on the basis of primary government sources and provides information. For personal decisions, consult a qualified adviser.

What sources is this based on?

The Freedom Score uses the OECD Tax Database, IATA Timatic, the Henley Visa Index and Eurostat, with direct links to primary government sources.