Sun, 8 November 2009
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Includes geography, people, government, economy and transnational issues.
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The new year brings a number of changes in Belgium, including a more expensive energy bill, higher medical expenses, and lower prices for some welfare housingThe new year brings a number of changes in Belgium, including a more expensive energy bill, higher medical expenses, and lower prices for some welfare housing but an obligation to learn Dutch to qualify for welfare housing in Flanders. Mailboxes from now on must have an opening of minimum 23 cm wide.
Belgian families will see a rise in electricity and gas bills this year: up to €30 for electricity and €75 for gas. The reason for the price hike is an increase in the distribution tariffs. However, the 'Elia-tax' on energy consumption that was to compensate for the liberalisation of the energy market, has been abolished. This will save the average family between €10-20/year.
For diesel cars the extra road tax has been abolished as has the tax on small pull trailers.
Doctor fees and some medical costs increase
Most doctor fees increase slightly this year, but the amount paid back by the health insurances also increases accordingly. 
Doctor visits after 6:00 pm are now €2 more expensive- people who have a regular doctor will be reimbursed in full.
Some examinations, such as CT scans are now up to 30% more expensive for the patient.
Loser pays winner's lawyer
From now on whoever is involved in a civil court case and loses must pay a considerable part of the legal fees for the winner.
The amount to be paid increases with the amount involved in the dispute. For disputes of between €250-750, the loser's contribution to the winning side is €200. For disputes of between €750-2,500 the contribution is €400.
For sums above €5000, the contribution will be worked out by a percentage system. The judge in any given case has the final word and may intervene to lower or increase losers' contributions.
This handy guide from Expertise in Labour Mobility includes how to write a CV, application procedure, interview dos and don'ts, Belgian management culture.
Belgium’s first alternative directory assistance services - available through the shortcode 14-14 - can now be accessed on the internet.
Moving to Belgium presents a host of challenges to expats, not least of all finding the right home.
The psychological effects of global mobility can be physically painful.
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