THE FACTS
We know, Brussels is cool but it can be a bit of a mess if you don’t know the good spots. Whether you’re here for your studies, an internship, or just to explore, your smartphone can become your best friend. We’ve listed the apps that will save your life daily, from your STIB commutes to your nights out with friends. No more bus hassles, full restaurants, or missed events. With the right apps, you save time, money, and fully enjoy everything the capital has to offer. We’re talking about mobility, food, culture, and even a little help for your budget.
WHY IT CONCERNS YOU
Imagine: you have to go to an interview on the other side of the city. With Flow (STIB), you know exactly which tram to take, how long it will take, and where to buy your ticket if you don’t have your MoBIB card. Or are you a little hungry after classes at ULB? Too Good To Go allows you to pick up super good unsold items at low prices from shops near you. This saves you a few euros, and we know that’s important when you’re a student or young professional in Brussels. The cost of living is generally higher than in Liège, especially for housing. And if you’re looking for a student job or a first job, platforms like Indeed or LinkedIn are essential. Knowing the rules for student jobs is crucial for managing your budget and maximizing your income. Don’t underestimate the impact of apps like CityMapper for complex journeys, or even social media to find good event deals in the FWB.
THE BELGIAN CONTEXT
In Belgium, and particularly in Brussels, digital technology is highly developed. STIB, for example, has gone all out with its apps to make your life easier. Most public services (CPAS, communes) also have mobile versions of their sites, even if they are not always dedicated apps. Mobile payment is also very widespread with Payconiq by Bancontact, used by millions of Belgians to pay for their groceries or reimburse a friend. The meal delivery sector is also booming. Deliveroo and Uber Eats share a large part of the market, with hundreds of partner restaurants in Brussels alone. It’s convenient for lazy evenings, but watch your wallet!
Regarding student jobs in Belgium for 2025-2026, you can work up to 650 hours per calendar year while benefiting from reduced social security contributions. These solidarity contributions amount to 2.71% of your gross salary for the student, and 5.42% for the employer. If you exceed these 650 hours, you can continue to work, but ordinary social security contributions will apply from the 651st hour.
In Brussels, an important particularity concerns your family allowances: to keep them, you must not work more than 240 hours per quarter during the school year (excluding summer holidays). If you exceed this limit, your allowances will be suspended for the quarter in question.
For salary, it is generally set by the joint committee of the company where you work. If you are 21 or older and no specific scale is defined, you are entitled to the Guaranteed Average Minimum Monthly Income (RMMMG), which was €2,189.81 gross per month (approximately €13.29 gross per hour for a full-time 38h/week) as of April 1, 2026. For those under 21, a percentage of this RMMMG applies, with decreasing amounts depending on age. On average, a student worker earned €14.21 gross per hour in 2026. To remain fiscally dependent on your parents in 2025 (2026 declaration), your net income must not exceed a certain ceiling, which varies according to their family situation (for example, approximately €12,298 gross if you are dependent on a couple taxed jointly).
You can start working as a student from the age of 15 if you have completed the first two years of secondary education, or from the age of 16 in all cases. Since May 2026, young people aged 15 who are still in full-time compulsory education can also do light work. Don’t forget to always sign a written contract before starting your job. To track your hours and check your quota, the Student@work application is your best ally.
WHAT’S DEBATABLE
While these apps are super practical, they also raise questions. The protection of your personal data, for example. When you use Google Maps or CityMapper, you share your location. Do you really read the terms and conditions? Another debate
TO GO FURTHER
To stay up to date on student job legislation in Belgium and Brussels for the years 2025-2026, don’t hesitate to regularly consult official platforms like Student@work or youth information sites like Infor Jeunes.