Student Life

THE ESSENTIALS

Good news if you’re a tenant in Brussels and want to improve your home: even without being a homeowner, you can benefit from aid for energy-saving works! Forget the idea that only homeowners are entitled to premiums. In 2026, you have access to financial boosts, notably via the Ecoreno Credit and reduced VAT. Your landlord’s agreement will often be essential, but it’s worth checking to lower your bills and improve your comfort.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

In 2026, the regional RENOLUTION Premiums in Brussels are temporarily suspended for new applications. However, other schemes are still available for tenants:

• The Ecoreno Credit: This is a low-interest loan managed by the Housing Fund. It’s accessible to tenants (with the landlord’s agreement) to finance energy renovation works such as insulation, ventilation, a new heating system, photovoltaic panels, a heat pump, or a solar water heater.
• Rate: 2.5% or 3.5% depending on your income in 2026.
• Ceiling: Up to €25,000 over a maximum of 10 years.
• VAT at 6%: For certain energy renovation works, you can benefit from a reduced VAT rate of 6% instead of 21%.
• Conditions: The dwelling must be more than 10 years old, and the works must be invoiced directly to the “final consumer” (you, the tenant, or the landlord).
• For heat pumps: VAT at 6% applies without any age condition for the dwelling since January 2026 and until 31/12/2030.
• Communal aid: Some Brussels communes offer their own aid for specific developments (green roofs, rainwater harvesting, etc.). Conditions and amounts vary from one commune to another, so inquire directly with your commune.
• Premiums in Wallonia: If you’re a tenant in Wallonia, since March 1, 2026, part of the Housing Premium is open to tenants for the installation of heating heat pumps (basic premium of €600, up to €3,600 in income category R1) and thermodynamic boilers (basic €280, up to €1,680 in R1). Insulation and frames remain reserved for homeowners. The landlord’s agreement is mandatory.

HOW TO DO IT

• Talk to your landlord: For most aid, your landlord’s agreement is essential, especially for the Ecoreno Credit. Explain the benefits of the works (lower charges, better comfort, property valuation).
• Contact Homegrade.brussels: This is the advice and support center for housing in Brussels. They can inform you about available aid, help you understand the conditions, put together your file, and even analyze quotes. It’s free!
• Find out about the Ecoreno Credit: Go to the Housing Fund website (fonds.brussels) to run a simulation and get more info.
• Check your commune’s aid: Consult your commune’s website to see if it offers specific premiums.
• Have the work done by a professional: To benefit from reduced VAT and any future premiums, the work must be done by an approved contractor.

THE PITFALLS

• The suspension of RENOLUTION Premiums: Don’t count on regional RENOLUTION Premiums for works whose final invoice is dated 2025 or 2026, as they are suspended. Previous applications (2024 invoices) are also closed.
• Landlord’s agreement: Without your landlord’s written agreement, you won’t be able to benefit from the Ecoreno Credit or most premiums for structural works.
• “DIY” works: Aid is generally reserved for works carried out by professionals.
• Deadlines: If RENOLUTION premiums were to be relaunched, there is often a deadline for submitting the application after the final invoice (for example, 12 months for the old system).

WHERE TO FIND INFORMATION

For official and up-to-date information, turn to these organizations:

• Homegrade.brussels: The one-stop shop for all your housing questions in Brussels. Phone: 1810 (Tuesday to Friday from 10 am to 12 pm and from 2 pm to 4 pm).
• Fonds du Logement de la Région de Bruxelles-Capitale: For the Ecoreno Credit.
• renolution.brussels: The reference platform for RENOLUTION Premiums (even if they are suspended, the site contains general info).
• Your commune: For any communal premiums.
• Bruxelles Environnement: For general information on energy and the environment in Brussels.
• CPAS or your commune’s energy unit: They can help you if you have difficulties with your energy bills.

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Verified sources

• be.brussels
• engie.be
• environnement.brussels
• bruxelles-j.be
• economie-energie.be
• samensterker.be

Information verified on 07/10/2026. Amounts and rules may change: always check with the official organization.

THE ESSENTIALS

Are you looking for help to pay your rent in Brussels? The rent allowance is here for that! It’s a monthly financial aid from the Brussels-Capital Region. It’s for young people and older who are waiting for social housing and have modest incomes.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

For the year 2026, here are the conditions and amounts for the rent allowance in Brussels:

Who’s eligible?

• You must be domiciled in the Brussels-Capital Region.
• You must be on a waiting list for social housing with a Public Service Real Estate Company (SISP).
• No member of your household should own real estate.
• Your current home must be rented with a primary residence contract.
• Your home must not be rented by a Social Real Estate Agency (AIS) or a SISP, and must not belong to a family member up to the second degree.
• You cannot combine this allowance with other rent aids.

Annual income ceilings (for an application in 2026, based on 2023 income – tax year 2024):

• Single person: your income must not exceed €16,408.11 per year.
• Other households (multiple people): your income must not exceed €22,174.69 per year.
• Single-parent family (one adult with at least one dependent child): your income must not exceed €29,236.66 per year.

Priority titles on the social housing waiting list:

• Single-parent family: at least 2 priority titles.
• Other households: at least 6 priority titles.

Rent allowance amount (as of January 1, 2026):

• Basic amount: €190.46 per month.
• Single-parent family with income less than or equal to €21,312.87: €190.46 per month, with an increase of €47.62 per child.
• Single-parent family with income between €21,312.87 and €28,100.75: €142.85 per month, with an increase of €47.62 per child.
• Other families: €190.46 per month, with an increase of €23.81 per child.

The allowance is granted for 5 years and can be renewed if you still meet the conditions.

HOW TO APPLY

Here are the steps to apply for the rent allowance:

• Make sure you meet all the conditions mentioned above.
• Download the rent allowance application form from the Bruxelles Logement website.
• Fill out the form carefully with all the requested information.
• Gather all necessary documents (household composition, proof of income, rental agreement, SISP registration certificate, etc.).
• Send your complete file by registered mail or submit it against acknowledgment of receipt.
• You can also submit your application online via the IrisBox platform.
• After receiving your complete file, it takes 2 to 4 months to get a decision. The aid will take effect on the first day of the month following the favorable decision, with no retroactive effect.

THE PITFALLS

• Not being registered with SISP: If you are not on a waiting list for social housing with a SISP, your application will be refused. A simple application to a commune or a CPAS is not enough.
• Exceeding income ceilings: If your income exceeds the set thresholds, you will not be entitled to the allowance.
• Forgetting documents: An incomplete file can delay the processing of your application, or even lead to its rejection.
• Being a homeowner: If a member of your household owns real estate, you will not be eligible.
• Making a false declaration: If you provide false information, your application will be canceled and if you already have social housing, your lease could be terminated.

WHERE TO GET INFORMATION

• Bruxelles Logement: This is the housing administration in the Brussels-Capital Region. You can contact them for any information about the rent allowance.
• Phone: 0800/40.400 (press 4 for housing information – Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 am to 12 pm).
• Email: logement@sprb.brussels
• Postal address: Direction Allocations Loyer, Place Saint-Lazare 2, 1035 Bruxelles.
• Website: logement.brussels
• Your CPAS or your commune’s housing department: They can help you complete the application form.

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Verified sources

• mes-aides-financieres.be
• be.brussels
• aide-sociale.be
• watermael-boitsfort.be
• socialenergie.be
• mc.be

Information verified on 03/10/2026. Amounts and rules may change: always check with the official organization.

THE ESSENTIALS

In Brussels, there are clear rules for your rubbish: each type of waste has its bag colour, a specific collection day, and times to respect. If you make a mistake, the fine can quickly add up, especially since August 1, 2026, when penalties were doubled for certain infractions. Sorting is mandatory, and following the instructions properly means avoiding problems and contributing to a cleaner city.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

In Brussels, waste sorting is super important and is done with different coloured bags, all stamped “Bruxelles-Propreté” to be accepted.

• White bag: This is for residual household waste, the stuff that can’t be recycled. White bag collection happens once a week in most neighbourhoods. A roll of 15 x 30L bags costs about €2.09 and a roll of 15 x 60L bags costs about €1.25 (prices valid until 31/12/2026).
• Blue bag: This is for PMC packaging (Plastics, Metal Packaging, and Drink Cartons). Using the blue bag has been mandatory since May 1, 2023. A roll of 15 x 50L bags costs about €1.50 and a roll of 15 x 100L bags costs about €3 (recommended prices in 2023).
• Yellow bag: This is for paper and cardboard. Sorting has been mandatory since 2010. A roll of 15 x 30L bags costs about €1.50 (price valid until 31/12/2026).
• Orange bag: This is reserved for food waste. Its use has been mandatory for households since May 15, 2023. A roll of 15 x 30L bags costs about €1.25 (recommended price in 2023). You can also get an orange container for free at Recyparks or from your local commune administration.
• Green bag: For garden waste (green waste and branches). Be careful, since March 23, 2026, green bag collection happens every other week, but the collection day remains the same. These bags are biodegradable and therefore more fragile. A roll of 10 x 60L bags costs about €2.50 (recommended price in 2023).

Bags must not exceed 15 kg.

Official rubbish bags are available in supermarkets and some retail stores.

HOW TO DO IT

• Sort your waste: Separate your waste carefully according to the categories (white, blue, yellow, orange, green).
• Use the right bags: Only buy bags stamped “Bruxelles-Propreté” of the correct colour and capacity.
• Check your calendar: Go to the Bruxelles-Propreté website and enter your address to find out the specific collection days and times for your street. The calendar indicates the day and time you need to put out your bags.
• Put out your bags at the right time: If collection is in the evening, put out your bags between 6 PM and 8 PM. If it’s in the morning, put them out the evening before from 6 PM.
• Place them correctly: Put your bags along your facade, outside your private property. Don’t put them at the foot of trees or public bins, and don’t obstruct pedestrian passage.
• Close your bags properly: Make sure they are well tied to prevent waste from escaping.
• Group by colour: Gather bags of the same colour to make the collection teams’ job easier.
• For sharp waste: Wrap it well to avoid accidents.
• Green bags: Store them in a dry, airy place, put them out on dry ground, away from sun and rain. Don’t fill them more than two weeks before collection.
• Public holidays: Collections take place as normal on public holidays.

THE PITFALLS

• Wrong bag or wrong colour: Using an unauthorised bag or the wrong colour will result in collection refusal by Bruxelles-Propreté and you risk a fine.
• Bags put out outside of hours: If you put out your official bags (white, blue, yellow, orange, green) outside of authorised days and times, you risk a fine of 200 euros per bag or per cubic meter (amount in effect from August 1, 2026).
• Illegal dumping: Throwing your waste anywhere is illegal dumping. Since August 1, 2026, the fine for a “classic” illegal dump is 1,000 euros per cubic meter, and 2,000 euros per cubic meter for hazardous or construction waste. Unauthorised rubbish bags left on public roads are fined 400 euros per bag.
• Fragile green bags: Green bags are biodegradable and can tear easily if they are overfilled, left in the sun, or on wet ground.
• Mixing waste streams: If you mix different coloured bags in the same rigid bin, or if you put non-compliant waste in a bag, it may not be collected.

WHERE TO FIND INFORMATION

For all official and up-to-date information, you can contact:

• Bruxelles-Propreté: This is the organisation that manages waste collection in Brussels. You’ll find all the info on their website or by contacting them directly.
• Phone: 0800/981 81 (for citizens)
• Email: info@arp-gan.be
• Your commune: Some commune administrations offer additional services or specific information.

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Verified sources

• arp-gan.be
• bruxelles.be
• bx1.be
• daardaar.be
• carrefour.be
• be.brussels

Information verified on 27/09/2026. Amounts and rules may change: always check with the official organisation.

THE ESSENTIALS

For your train journeys in Belgium as a student aged 16 to 25 (inclusive), you have two main options: the Student Abonnement if you travel frequently on the same route, or the Student Multi if you make a few occasional round trips. Since October 15, 2025, the old Youth Ticket, Youth Multi, and Youth Holidays have been discontinued and replaced by new formulas or discounts via the Train+ card.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The Student Abonnement (for frequent journeys)

• Who is it for? Students under 26 who commute daily between their home and their place of study or internship.
• Validity: Unlimited travel on a fixed route (home-school) in 2nd or 1st class. You can get it for 1, 3, or 12 months. The annual subscription (12 months) costs you the price of 10 months.
• Advantages: It’s super advantageous if you make at least 5 single journeys per week. You can also combine it with a STIB, TEC, or De Lijn subscription for your bus, tram, or metro journeys.
• School certificate: If you are 18 or older, you will need a valid school certificate. It must include your information (name, date of birth, school period, station of your school) and be signed by your institution. It is valid for one year.
• MoBIB card: Your subscription is loaded onto your personal MoBIB card. If you don’t have one, it costs €6 (price in August 2026) and is valid for 5 years.

The Student Multi (for occasional journeys)

• Who is it for? Students under 26 who travel 1 to 3 times a week on the same route for their classes.
• Validity: It’s a 10-journey card (5 outward and 5 return trips) to be used over a period of 49 days.
• School certificate: As with the Student Abonnement, if you are 18 or older, a school certificate is required.

The Train+ (for occasional and flexible travel)

• Who is it for? All young people under 26 benefit from a 40% discount on the standard ticket price. With the Train+ card, you can get an additional 40% discount during off-peak hours (from 9 am to 4 pm and from 6 pm to 6 am), on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
• Price: The Train+ card costs €4 per month or €32 per year for young people, seniors, and beneficiaries of increased intervention (price in October 2025).
• Cap: The maximum price for a single journey in 2nd class is capped at €5.50 with Train+ (price in October 2025).
• Important: Since October 15, 2025, the old Youth Ticket, Youth Multi, and Youth Holidays have been discontinued and replaced by these new formulas or discounts via the Train+ card.

Youth Holidays Combi (for summer holidays)

• Who is it for? This pass was introduced in summer 2024 for 18-24 year olds.
• Validity: It allows you to use all public transport (SNCB, STIB, TEC, De Lijn) in Belgium for €59 per month during the summer (information from 2024).
• Price: In 2024, there was also a Youth Holidays SNCB for 1 week at €18 or 1 month at €35 to travel by train in Belgium during school holidays (summer, autumn, Christmas).

HOW TO DO IT

• For a first Student Abonnement or Student Multi:
  • Go to a station counter with your electronic identity card.
  • If you are over 18, bring your school certificate duly completed and signed by your institution.
  • Budget €6 for the creation of your MoBIB card if you don’t have one yet.
• To buy or renew online (Student Abonnement and Student Multi):
  • Log in to your My SNCB account (or create one).
  • Choose the subscription you want to extend or buy.
  • If you are over 18, you can upload your completed school certificate.
  • For the Student Multi, plan to renew it at least 10 days before the travel date if you do it online, as the validation ticket arrives by mail.
• To buy the Train+ card:
  • The Train+ card is available for purchase monthly or annually.
  • It is available via the Olympus application.

THE PITFALLS

• Non-compliant school certificate: If your school certificate is not valid (wrong dates, incorrect information, not signed), your subscription may be cancelled. If the validity period has already started, administrative fees of €10 may be withheld in case of a refund.
• Subscription not activated retroactively: A school subscription cannot be activated for a past period. Make sure to buy it on time.
• Online renewal of the Student Multi: If you renew your Student Multi online, do it at least 10 days in advance to receive your validation ticket on time. Otherwise, you will have to do it at the station.
• Not having a MoBIB card: If you don’t have a MoBIB card, you will have to buy one for €6 (price in August 2026) at the time of your first subscription purchase.

WHERE TO GET INFORMATION

You can contact SNCB via the contact form on their website. If you do not receive a satisfactory response within one month, you can contact Ombudsrail.

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Verified sources

• belgiantrain.be
• ombudsrail.be
• olympus-mobility.be
• tvlux.be

Information verified on 23/09/2026. Amounts and rules may change: always check with the official body.

THE ESSENTIALS

Family planning centers in Brussels are there for you, no matter your situation. The reception is always free, anonymous, and no appointment is needed for an initial chat and information. You can talk about contraception, pregnancy, relationships, STI screening, and much more, with pros who won’t judge you.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Reception at a family planning center is free and no appointment is needed. You can get free condoms and the morning-after pill there. Pregnancy tests usually cost between 0 and 6 euros.

Medical, psychological, social, and legal consultations are available. Some consultations are free, such as social or legal consultations in certain centers. For other consultations (medical, psychological), prices are adapted to your financial situation and can be partially reimbursed by your mutual insurance company. For example, a medical consultation can cost around 6 euros and a psychological or sexological consultation 25 euros in some centers.

If you are under 25 or have BIM status (Beneficiary of Increased Intervention), most contraceptives are free or heavily reimbursed by INAMI (health and disability insurance) and your mutual insurance company in 2026. Some mutual insurance companies offer additional reimbursements for contraception. For example, Solidaris Brabant reimburses €40 per year for contraception (including condoms) in 2026. Mutualité Chrétienne reimburses up to €75 per year for contraception (excluding IUD and implant) and up to €150 every 3 years for an IUD or contraceptive implant, valid from January 1, 2025. Mutualité Neutre reimburses €60 per year for pills, patches, vaginal rings, and injections, €120 for an IUD or implant every 36 months, and €40 per year for condoms purchased at a pharmacy.

Anonymity is guaranteed: family planning centers are bound by professional secrecy. They cannot tell your parents or anyone else that you came, without your permission. A minor does not need their parents’ consent to come.

HOW TO DO IT

• Find a center near you: You can check the websites of family planning federations (like Mon Planning Familial) to find a list of centers in Brussels and their opening hours.
• Go to reception: For initial information, condoms, the morning-after pill, or a pregnancy test, you can go directly to reception without an appointment.
• Explain your situation: The reception team is there to listen to you without judgment and guide you.
• Make an appointment if needed: If you need a specific consultation (medical, psychological, legal, etc.), the team will offer you an appointment or direct you to the most suitable service.
• Ask about costs: Don’t hesitate to talk about your financial situation at reception. Prices can be adapted, and solutions exist so that money is not a barrier. Don’t forget to bring your mutual insurance stickers for medical consultations.

THE PITFALLS

• Not daring to talk about money: Cost should not prevent you from consulting. Family planning centers are there to help you and can adapt prices or direct you to assistance.
• Not checking opening hours: Even if reception is without an appointment, opening hours can vary from one center to another. Check them before you go.
• Forgetting your mutual insurance: To benefit from reimbursements for medical consultations or contraception, it is important to be up-to-date with your mutual insurance.
• Not canceling an appointment: Some centers may charge you administrative fees (for example, 10 euros at Planning Familial des Marolles since July 1, 2025) if you do not cancel an appointment at least 24 hours in advance.

WHERE TO FIND INFORMATION

The official organizations to contact are the family planning centers themselves. You can find the list and contact details of approved centers in Brussels and Wallonia on the “Mon Planning Familial” website.

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Verified sources

• bruxelles-j.be
• ijbxl.be
• monplanningfamilial.be
• ccf.brussels
• planningmarolles.be
• jeminforme.be

Information verified on 19/09/2026. Amounts and rules may change: always check with the official organization.

THE ESSENTIALS

In Brussels, all-inclusive medical centers operate on a system where your health insurance pays a fixed amount each month to the medical center for your general medical care, physiotherapy, and nursing services. Basically, you don’t pay anything directly for these consultations, and that changes everything! It’s a solidarity contract between you, your health insurance, and the medical center.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The all-inclusive system is the opposite of fee-for-service payment. With fee-for-service, you pay for each consultation or treatment, and your health insurance reimburses you for a portion. With the all-inclusive plan, the medical center receives a fixed amount from your health insurance, no matter how many times you consult. This amount is calculated by the INAMI (National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance) based on criteria such as your age or social status.

What’s covered by the all-inclusive plan (in 2026):

• General medicine: all consultations and home visits.
• Nursing care: all services.
• Physiotherapy: all services.

What’s NOT covered by the all-inclusive plan:

• Consultations with medical specialists (gynecologist, cardiologist, dentist, etc.). You’ll pay for these consultations, and your health insurance will reimburse you as usual.
• Laboratory tests (blood tests, urine analyses, etc.), medication purchases, and hospitalizations.
• Some medical centers also offer services like dietetics, psychology, or social assistance. These services may be paid or free depending on the medical center.

In 2026, a consultation with an accredited general practitioner costs €33.74, and a home visit costs €48.57. If you’re enrolled in the all-inclusive plan, you won’t have to pay these fees upfront for the covered services.

HOW TO DO IT

• Find an all-inclusive medical center in Brussels: The Fédération des Maisons Médicales (FMM) brings together over 140 medical centers in Wallonia and Brussels. You can search for a list of medical centers that operate on an all-inclusive basis on the INAMI website.
• Check enrollment conditions: Each medical center has a specific geographical area. You must reside there to be able to enroll. You must also be up-to-date with your health insurance.
• Make an appointment for enrollment: Enrollment is usually by appointment.
• Sign the contract: When you enroll, you’ll sign a contract with the medical center and your health insurance. You’ll receive a copy. This contract commits you to consult only the professionals at the medical center for the services covered by the all-inclusive plan.
• Your enrollment is effective: You are enrolled from the 1st day of the month following your application.

THE PITFALLS

• Consulting elsewhere for covered care: If you consult a general practitioner, physiotherapist, or nurse outside your medical center for services covered by the all-inclusive plan, you won’t be reimbursed by your health insurance and you’ll have to pay the full price. There are exceptions for emergencies at night, on weekends, public holidays, or if you’re on vacation outside Brussels. In these cases, keep the care certificate to give to your medical center upon your return; they will reimburse you for the health insurance portion.
• Not being up-to-date with your health insurance: To benefit from the all-inclusive plan, you must be up-to-date with your health insurance.
• Moving: If you move outside the medical center’s area, you’ll have to unenroll.
• Non-compliance with rules: Some medical centers may terminate your contract if you don’t respect their rules (politeness, punctuality, respect for staff and premises).

WHERE TO GET INFORMATION

For official and up-to-date information, you can contact:

• INAMI (National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance): They manage the healthcare reimbursement system in Belgium. You can contact them by email (mh-mm@riziv-inami.fgov.be) or by phone (+32 (0)2 739 74 79) on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 PM to 4 PM, and on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 AM to 12 PM.
• The Fédération des Maisons Médicales (FMM): This is the federation that represents the majority of medical centers in Wallonia and Brussels. They also organize information sessions.
• Your health insurance: They can give you precise information on how the all-inclusive plan works and your social security status.
• Directly at a medical center: Their reception teams are there to explain how they operate and answer your questions.

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Verified sources

• mmarnica.be
• maisonmedicaleprimeveres.be
• maisonsanterive.be
• mmbarvaux.be
• mmfds.be
• citesante.be

Information verified on 15/09/2026. Amounts and rules may change: always check with the official organization.

THE ESSENTIALS

In Brussels, you’re entitled to family allowances until August 31st of the year you turn 18, with no conditions. After 18 and up to a maximum of 25 years old, you can continue to receive them if you’re studying, in training, or in a professional integration internship, under certain conditions. Be careful, your student job can impact this right if you exceed a certain number of hours.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Until what age are you entitled to family allowances?

• Before 18: It’s automatic! You receive your family allowances unconditionally until August 31st of the year you turn 18. It doesn’t matter if you’re studying or working.
• Between 18 and 25: To continue receiving them, you must prove that you are in one of these situations:
• You are in full-time education (secondary, higher, university). For secondary, you need at least 17 hours of classes per week. For higher education, it’s a minimum of 27 credits or 13 hours of classes per week.
• You are in an alternating training program or a recognized apprenticeship.
• You are a young job seeker in a professional integration internship and registered with Actiris.
• After 25: The right to family allowances stops the month you turn 25, even if you are still studying or in training.

What can make you lose your family allowances (in Brussels):

• Working too many hours: If you are over 18 and work more than 240 hours per quarter (excluding July, August, and September if you resume your studies), you lose your family allowances for that quarter. During the summer holidays (July, August, September), you can work without an hour limit if you resume studies afterward.
• Stopping your studies: If you drop out of your studies during the academic year, you risk losing your right.
• Not registering as a job seeker (if you’ve finished your studies): If you finish your studies and don’t register quickly with Actiris, the 360-day period during which you can still receive your allowances (under conditions) begins, and you lose part of this right.
• Self-employment as a main activity: If you start as a self-employed person with payment of social contributions, your allowances will be stopped.
• Certain social benefits: If you receive unemployment, waiting, or career interruption benefits, your right to family allowances ends.

Student job ceiling (for family allowances in Brussels):

• As mentioned, the limit is 240 hours per quarter during the school year (1st, 2nd, and 4th quarter).
• During the 3rd civil quarter (July, August, September), there is no hour limit if you continue your studies the following school year.
• Hours worked as part of a mandatory internship for your studies are not included in this calculation.

Amounts of family allowances in Brussels (amounts indexed since 01/09/2026):

• For a child born from 01/12/2019:
• 0-11 years: €194.04 per month.
• 12-17 years: €206.98 per month.
• 18-24 years (higher education): €219.91 per month.
• 18-24 years (no higher education or job seeker): €206.98 per month.
• For a child born before 01/12/2019, the amounts may be different and depend on the family situation. Your family allowance fund will always pay you the most advantageous amount.

New “Post-student” status in Wallonia (be careful, different rules in Brussels):

• Since July 1st, 2026, in Wallonia, if you are between 21 and 25 years old and you finish or stop your studies, you can still benefit from family allowances for a maximum period of 12 months via the “Post-student” status. This “12-month pot” does not have to be used all at once.
• In Brussels, the rules are different: registering as a job seeker allows you to keep allowances for 360 days (calendar) after the end of studies, under conditions.

HOW TO DO IT

• After you turn 18: Every year in September, your family allowance fund (like Famiris) will send you a “Family allowances for students” form.
• Fill out the form: You and your school must fill it out and sign it.
• Send it back: Send the form as soon as possible by email to your case manager or by post to your family allowance fund.
• If you’ve finished your studies: Register quickly as a job seeker with Actiris so you don’t lose part of your right to family allowances during the 360-day period.
• Check your student job hours: Keep an eye on the number of hours you work via Student@work to avoid exceeding the limits and losing your allowances.

THE PITFALLS

• Exceeding the hour quota: If you work more than 240 hours per quarter (excluding summer if you resume studies) in Brussels, your parents will have to reimburse the family allowances received for that quarter.
• Forgetting to prove your studies: If you don’t submit the school certificate each year, the payment of your allowances may be suspended.
• Late registration as a job seeker: If you finish your studies and register late with Actiris, the 360-day period during which you are entitled to allowances still begins on the scheduled date, and you lose months of allowances.
• Working under a student contract after finishing studies: If you finished your studies in June and don’t plan to resume them, it’s not advisable to work under a student contract the following summer, as you no longer have student status. This could lead to a reimbursement of benefits related to reduced social contributions.

WHERE TO FIND INFORMATION

For all official and personalized information, contact these organizations directly:

• Famiris: The public family allowance fund in Brussels.
  • Phone: +32 800 35 950
  • E-mail: info@famiris.brussels
• Iriscare: The organization that manages the family allowance system in Brussels.
• Parentia Bruxelles: A private family allowance fund in Brussels.
  • Phone: 02/549.72.19
  • E-mail: brussels@parentia.be
• Brussels Family: Another private family allowance fund in Brussels.
  • E-mail: info@brusselsfamily.be
• KidsLife Bruxelles: Another private family allowance fund in Brussels.
• Infor Jeunes Bruxelles: For advice and information on your rights.

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Verified sources

• famiris.brussels
• bruxelles-j.be
• mesallocations.be
• jeminforme.be
• ijbxl.be
• kidslife.be

Information verified on 09/09/2026. Amounts and rules may change: always check with the official organization.

THE ESSENTIALS

The 2026-2027 school year in Brussels starts on Monday, August 24, 2026, and ends on Friday, July 2, 2027, for compulsory education (primary and secondary). For higher education students, start dates, study periods, and exam dates vary by institution, but the January session is harmonized for most French-speaking universities. Get ready for four holiday periods of two weeks each, in addition to public holidays.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

For primary and secondary education (Wallonia-Brussels Federation):

• Back to school 2026: Monday, August 24, 2026.
• French Community Day: Sunday, September 27, 2026.
• Autumn holidays (All Saints’ Day): From Monday, October 19 to Friday, October 30, 2026.
• All Souls’ Day: Monday, November 2, 2026.
• Armistice Day: Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
• Winter holidays (Christmas): From Monday, December 21, 2026 to Friday, January 1, 2027.
• Mardi Gras: Tuesday, February 9, 2027.
• Relaxation holidays (Carnival): From Monday, February 22 to Friday, March 5, 2027.
• Easter Monday: Monday, March 29, 2027.
• Spring holidays (Easter): From Monday, April 26 to Friday, May 7, 2027. Note that the spring break is shifted relative to Easter.
• Ascension Day: Thursday, May 6, 2027.
• Whit Monday: Monday, May 17, 2027.
• End of the school year: Friday, July 2, 2027.

For higher education (universities and colleges in Brussels):

• Start of the academic year: Mid-September 2026.
• End of first semester classes: Saturday, December 19, 2026 for most French-speaking universities. ULB is an exception with classes ending on December 12, 2026, the week of the 14th being dedicated to catch-up sessions.
• January exam session: From Monday, January 4 to Saturday, January 23, 2027 for the six French-speaking universities (UCLouvain, UCLouvain Saint-Louis Bruxelles, ULB, ULiège, UNamur, and UMons). For colleges, the session can run until January 30 or 31, 2027.
• January study period: This corresponds to the winter holidays, between the end of classes and the start of the exam session.
• End of second semester classes: Generally mid-April or end of April 2027.
• June exam session: The end of second semester classes is generally Saturday, May 15, 2027 for UCLouvain Saint-Louis Bruxelles, with the start of the exam session on Monday, May 31, 2027 and the end on Saturday, June 27, 2027.
• Resit exams (second session): Mid to late August 2027. For example, at UCLouvain Saint-Louis Bruxelles, the resit session begins on Friday, August 13, 2027 and ends on Friday, September 3, 2027.

The “blocus” (study period) is a period of intensive study before exams.

HOW TO DO IT

• Note key dates: Use a paper or digital planner to mark all start dates, holidays, exam sessions, and study periods for the 2026-2027 year.
• Check your institution’s calendar: If you’re in higher education, consult your university or college website for precise study period and exam dates, as they can vary.
• Anticipate the study period: Christmas holidays are often your study period for the January session, so organize yourself accordingly.
• Look for study rooms: The City of Brussels provides equipped study rooms during study periods. Some universities also offer supervised study periods.

THE PITFALLS

• Confusing calendars: School holidays for compulsory education (primary and secondary) are set by the Wallonia-Brussels Federation, but those for higher education are specific to each institution. Always check the calendar that concerns you.
• Neglecting the study period: The study period is not a holiday period; it’s a crucial revision phase. Don’t underestimate it.
• Forgetting isolated public holidays: Some public holidays are not included in classic holiday periods, so remember to note them down to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

WHERE TO FIND INFORMATION

For official and up-to-date information, consult the websites of the following organizations:

• Wallonia-Brussels Federation: The official school calendar for compulsory education is available on enseignement.be and on the official website of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation.
• Your higher education institution: Each university or college publishes its own detailed academic calendar.
• Infor Jeunes: For general information on school holidays in French-speaking Belgium.
• CPAS de la Ville de Bruxelles: To find out about available study rooms.

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Verified sources

• ligue-enseignement.be
• one.be
• jeminforme.be
• ulb.be
• lacsc.be
• cfwb.be

Information verified on 08/09/2026. Amounts and rules may change: always check with the official organization.

THE ESSENTIALS

Looking for a student job in Brussels? Good news: in 2026, you can work up to 650 hours a year with reduced social security contributions. The minimum wage depends on your age and the sector, but there are official scales. To find what you’re looking for, several platforms and organizations are there to help you.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

In Belgium, a student job is a specific employment contract for young people who are studying. Here are the important rules for 2026:

• Minimum age: You can start a student job from 15 years old. If you are 15 and still subject to full-time compulsory education, you can only do “light work” (store assistant, tidying, reception, small administrative tasks, babysitting, certain horeca tasks). If you are 16 or older, these restrictions on the type of work do not apply.
• Hours quota: In 2026, you can work up to 650 hours per calendar year with reduced social security contributions. Beyond these 650 hours, you can continue to work, but the additional hours will be subject to ordinary social security contributions, which will reduce your net salary.
• Social security contributions: During your 650 hours, you pay a solidarity contribution of 2.71% on your gross salary, and your employer pays 5.42%. This is much less than ordinary contributions (approximately 13.07% for you and 25% for the employer).
• Minimum wage: There isn’t a single wage for all student jobs. It depends on the company’s sector of activity (defined by a joint committee) and your age.
• If no more favorable sectoral scale applies, the Guaranteed Average Minimum Monthly Income (RMMMG) must be respected. As of July 1, 2026, the gross RMMMG for a full-time position (38h/week) is €2,233.61 per month for those aged 21 and over.
• For those under 21, the minimum wage is a percentage of this RMMMG (figures as of July 1, 2026):
• 21 years old: 100% (€2,233.61 gross/month, or €13.56 gross/hour)
• 20 years old: 90% (€2,010.25 gross/month, or €12.21 gross/hour)
• 19 years old: 85% (€1,898.57 gross/month, or €11.53 gross/hour)
• 18 years old: 79% (€1,764.55 gross/month, or €10.72 gross/hour)
• 17 years old: 73% (€1,630.54 gross/month, or €9.90 gross/hour)
• 16 years old and under: 67% (€1,496.52 gross/month, or €9.09 gross/hour)
• These amounts apply if you work at least one month in the same company.
• On average, the gross hourly wage for a student worker in Brussels was 14.68 euros in 2026.
• Working hours:
• The normal working time is an average of 38 hours per week, with a maximum of 40 hours per week.
• You cannot work more than 8 hours per day.
• If you are under 18, you cannot work more than 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week. Night work (between 8 PM and 6 AM) is generally prohibited.
• If you are 15 and still subject to full-time compulsory education: maximum 2 hours on school days and 12 hours per week during the school period; maximum 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week during holidays.
• Breaks:
• If you are under 18: 30 minutes break after 4h30 of work, and 1 hour break (including 30 minutes at once) if you work more than 6 hours.
• If you are 18 or older: 15 minutes break after 6 hours of uninterrupted work.
• You are entitled to 12 consecutive hours of rest between two working days.
• An uninterrupted work period cannot be less than 3 hours, unless otherwise specified.
• Contract: A written student employment contract is mandatory before starting work. It must mention the duration, salary, schedule, and job description.
• Taxes: If you do not exceed a certain income amount (€22,385 gross after deduction of social security contributions in 2026, under certain conditions), you will not pay taxes. To remain fiscally dependent on your parents, there is also an income ceiling not to be exceeded (€4,200 for 2026 income).

HOW TO DO IT

• Check your age and conditions: Make sure you meet the age and student status conditions (be enrolled in an educational institution, your studies must be your main activity).
• Track your hours: Use the official student@work platform (or the mobile app) to check your balance of hours with reduced contributions in real time.
• Look for offers:
  • General job sites: Jobat.be, Indeed, Student.be.
  • Temp agencies: Tempo Team, Adecco, Manpower, Randstad, Start People, Unique, Daoust, HAYS.
  • Public organizations: Actiris (the Brussels Regional Employment Office) offers jobs and the JEEP service has a directory of companies that hire students.
  • The City of Brussels: It hires students for various positions during school holidays.
  • Recruiting sectors: Horeca, sales, logistics, events, and seasonal jobs are often good leads.
• Sign a contract: Before starting, make sure you sign a written student employment contract with your employer. Carefully check the information (salary, hours, job description).
• Check your payslip: A payslip is mandatory with each payment.

THE PITFALLS

• Working without a contract: Never start a job without having signed a written contract. Without it, you risk not being paid, having abusive hours, or not being insured in case of a problem.
• Exceeding 650 hours unknowingly: If you exceed the 650-hour quota without paying attention, your extra hours will be subject to ordinary social security contributions, which will reduce your net salary and could impact your taxes or your parents’ family allowances. Keep an eye on student@work!
• Not knowing your joint committee: The minimum wage depends on your sector. Make sure you know your company’s joint committee (it must be indicated on your contract) to verify that you are being paid correctly.
• Working during your compulsory school hours: Your working hours can never encroach on your compulsory school attendance hours.

WHERE TO GET INFORMATION

For official and up-to-date information, you can contact:

• Student@work: The official platform to track your hours quota.
• SPF Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale: For all regulations concerning student work and minimum wages.
• Infor Jeunes: They can give you personalized advice and answer your questions.
• Contrôle des lois sociales: In case of a dispute with your employer or if you have doubts about compliance with the rules.

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Verified sources

• ucm.be
• jeminforme.be
• belgique.be
• dynamik.be
• droitsquotidiens.be
• student.be

Information verified on 07/09/2026. Amounts and rules may change: always check with the official body.

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Read also

• Finding student accommodation in Brussels: prices, neighborhoods, procedures
• STIB subscription when you’re young: fares and procedures
• Enrolling in a university in Brussels: dates, documents, tuition fees
• Professional integration internship: the user guide after your studies
• CPAS in Brussels: what aid is available when you’re young

THE ESSENTIALS

In Brussels, getting social housing when you’re young is possible, but it requires patience and rigor. You need to register with a Public Service Real Estate Company (SISP) and meet income and non-ownership conditions. Waiting times are long, often several years, but priority points can help you. Also consider Social Real Estate Agencies (AIS) as an alternative.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

To apply for social housing in Brussels, you must meet several conditions, valid in 2026:

• Do not own property: Neither you nor any member of your household must own real estate, whether in Belgium or abroad, except for specific exceptions.
• Income ceilings: Your net taxable income (that of your household, excluding dependent children) must not exceed certain amounts. For a single person, the ceiling is €28,955.17 per year in 2026. For a household with a single income, it’s €32,172.44, and for a household with two or more incomes, it’s €36,768.55. These amounts are increased by €2,757.64 per dependent child (a disabled child counts as two children) and by €5,515.25 per disabled adult in the household. Be aware that these ceilings may vary slightly depending on the SISP.
• Residence in Belgium: At least one member of your household must be registered in the population or foreign nationals register of a Belgian commune.
• No disputes: If you have previously been a tenant of an SISP, you must have respected all your obligations (payment of rent, respect for the premises, etc.).
• Single registration: You can only be part of one candidate-tenant household and you cannot submit applications to multiple SISPs at the same time.

Social housing is managed by the Société du Logement de la Région de Bruxelles-Capitale (SLRB) which supervises 16 Sociétés Immobilières de Service Public (SISP).

Waiting times are very long in Brussels. In 2026, there are over 62,000 households on the waiting list. The average waiting time is estimated between 8 and 12 years for social housing. For a studio or a 1-bedroom apartment, it can be 11 to 12 years; for a 2-bedroom, 12 to 13 years; for a 3-bedroom, 14 to 15 years; and for a 4-bedroom or more, 18 to 20 years.

You can get priority points that can reduce this delay. For example, if you are forced to leave your home due to unhealthiness, if you have dependent children and are alone, if a member of your household is disabled, or if you lose your home following an exceptional event.

HOW TO DO IT

• Choose your reference SISP: Contact one of the 16 SISPs in the Brussels-Capital Region or the SLRB to obtain the registration form. You can only register with one SISP, which will become your reference company.
• Fill out the form: Complete the “Social/Medium/Moderate Housing Application” form (2026 version) in capital letters. All adult members of your household must sign it.
• Gather the documents:
  • Your tax assessment notice for the reference year’s income (i.e., 2023 income for a 2026 registration) for all adult members of your household (excluding dependent children).
  • Proof of your current income (the last three pay slips, unemployment benefits, etc.). If you have no income, a sworn statement.
  • Proof that at least one member of your household is registered in the population or foreign nationals register in Belgium.
  • Other annexes may be requested depending on your situation (see the form).
• Submit your application: Send the completed and signed form with all annexes by registered mail or submit it directly to the counter of the SISP you have chosen. Do not send it to the SLRB.
• Update your file: During the waiting period, you must inform your SISP of any changes within two months (change of address, household composition, income). Each year, the SISP will send you a letter to reconfirm your application; respond within the deadline (generally 30 days) to avoid being removed from the list.

THE PITFALLS

• False declaration: If you declare false information (for example, about property ownership), your application will be canceled. If you already have social housing, your lease may be terminated with 6 months’ notice.
• Refusal of housing: If you refuse housing that meets your criteria twice, your application will be removed for 6 months. Only compelling reasons for refusal will be taken into account.
• Incomplete file: An incomplete file can invalidate your application. Make sure you provide all requested supporting documents.
• Multiple registrations: Do not register with several SISPs at the same time; it is forbidden and can lead to your application being removed.

WHERE TO GET INFORMATION

For official and up-to-date information, you can contact:

• The Société du Logement de la Région de Bruxelles-Capitale (SLRB).
• The Sociétés Immobilières de Service Public (SISP) directly.
• Your commune’s CPAS.
• The Fonds du Logement de la Région de Bruxelles-Capitale.
• The Agences Immobilières Sociales (AIS).

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Verified sources

• slrb-bghm.brussels
• mes-aides-financieres.be
• be.brussels
• logementbruxellois.be
• lojega.be
• inforjeunes.be

Information verified on 07/09/2026. Amounts and rules may change: always check with the official organization.