In this guide to forging connections with Belgians, Colby - a recent graduate from the US - shares his insights into meeting locals, providing cultural context, tips and resources to broaden your own network.
If you are staying longer than 90 days in Belgium then you will need a residence permit. Learn how to obtain yours at the Leuven city hall (Stadskantoor)
Changing your address in Belgium? You are required to report your change of address to the municipality of your new residence within 8 days of moving.
Does your resident card expire soon? You can apply for an extension.
Recently moved to Belgium and not sure where to begin? Follow our checklist to get started.
Whether you've lost your dog or cat, or you've spotted a stray animal, there are services in Leuven that can help reunite pets with their owners quickly and safely.
If you have ever traveled or lived abroad, you've likely encountered some akward moments navigating different cultures. Dive into the topic of cross-cultural communication with two experts that joined an IHL workshop.
Meet Hannelise from South Africa - she moved here for work with her husband and daughter.
Meet Kasia - host of the vibrant 40+ ladies IHL group. Originally from Poland, she started this bustling group that meets a few times a month to try new things: food, drinks, karaoke or even spa days - the sky's the limit with this group!
Meet Ezgi from Türkiye - she joined the IHL Ambassador Program as a newcomer and later returned as a welcome host herself.
Meet Mariia from Russia. She shares her experience as a trailing partner and how she navigated some of the difficulties.
Mariia shares her experience of what it is like to be an international living abroad while her parents age. She offers tips from her experience of what she has learned.
Dealing with animal nuisance in Leuven? Learn who to contact, how to report issues, and what support is available for concerns involving pets, wildlife, rats, mice, martens, or noisy animals.
Recently moved to Belgium and not sure where to begin? Follow our checklist to get started. This article covers month 2 of living in Belgium.
Recently moved to Belgium and not sure where to begin? Follow our checklist to get started. This article covers month 3 of living in Belgium.
Gabi shares her experience of traveling to 22 countries with little ones and provides tips on how to make it an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Take a look at the Flemish through a cultural lens. Discover why they do the things they do and how to make strong connections with them.
Two internationals share their experience of what it is like to lose a parent while living abroad. They discuss the grief, guilt, and what helped them process it all.
Meet Meggan and Helga and discover how they found connection despite coming from different backgrounds.
A practical guide on what to do when a pet dies, how to report a dead animal, burial rules, cremation options, and who to contact for assistance.
Need emergency pet or wildlife assistance in Leuven? Find out when animals qualify for emergency shelter, who to contact for stray cats or injured wildlife, and what support is available for pet owners facing unforeseen circumstances.
If you have a motor vehicle in Belgium, you will need to obtain a Belgian license plate. Learn more about that process in this article.
Interested in gardening in an urban area? Learn more about gardening options in Leuven.
Learn about the many options to buy and sell second hand in Leuven.
Staying informed about local events, news, and resources enhances your experience of the city and keeps you up to date with the latest happenings in Leuven.
Concerned about animal neglect or abuse in Leuven? Learn how to report suspected mistreatment, what happens after you make a report, and how local authorities work to protect animal welfare.
Leuven has many options for healthy and sustainable food. Learn about the different businesses and initiatives where you can find sustainable food options in Leuven.
To make the most of your time in the beautiful city of Leuven, it's essential to have the right tools at your fingertips. Learn about helpful apps to use in Leuven.
If you live in Leuven, you don't have to travel far to enjoy the many activities, events, and sites in the area. Learn what there is to explore in Belgium.
There are many ways to connect with local residents or to meet up with fellow internationals in Leuven. Discover how to meet new people in Leuven.
Each region in Belgium has its own system of sorting waste. Learn how to sort your trash correctly in the Leuven area.
Can you feed animals in Leuven? Learn the city's rules on feeding pets, pigeons, and stray cats, and discover how Leuven manages animal welfare and stray cat populations responsibly.
Discover the different neighborhoods of Leuven to help you decide where is best for you (and your family) to live.
Leuven is a wonderful city to live in. Learn about what makes it so great!
If you have children, then you probably know that the Krokusvakantie or “Spring break”, is coming up in February. But do you know the origin behind this break or how people in Belgium use this week? Well, we are here to help explain a bit about this holiday week and explain some fun Belgian traditions.
Where words fail, music acts as a common language. In this way we can tell the other about ourselves or even more: build a connecting, common story.
At the end of August, the city of Leuven will be installing a new cycle path at the bus stops at Leuven station, between Diestsevest and Martelarenplein.
In April, Belgian forests burst to life with bluebells, starting with a carpet of delicate blue flowers and a sweet scent.
Here's our starters' guide to the must-attend music events and festivals happening in Belgium this summer.
