Working in Europe

[Jason]

I am considering a contract that would have me working in Belgum for 6 months.

Anyone know what impact that has on things like taxation?

I am assuming that because the agency is uk that my company will still charge VAT. but what I am after are the personal tax implications.

[TheFaQQer]

Have you checked the overseas guide to working in Belgium?

[Jason]

Ok just read the guide.. thanks for the hint.

All I can say is, ouch!

[TheFaQQer]

I think TLG and Joe Black are over there at the moment, IIRC.

I've never worked there, so haven't read the guide.

[Joe Black]

Indeed we are. Well I am in any case, and Rantor most certainly.

Regarding the CUK guide*, if you haven't already done a search then click here for a few interesting points. Though reading it might not give quite the impression I (or Rantor?) intended, as it's more when you're here long-term that the problems (and frustration - no doubt apparent in our posts) begin.

For 6 months or so it shouldn't be considered any different from working away from home in the UK, as that's what I did years ago. In which case a good accountant/umbrella/management company should ensure you're as well, if not better off, at the end of the day.

Re the VAT it's simple. Bill someone in the same country, yes, another country no...

[Jason]

Ok.. so it looks like business as usual, stick with my Ltd. assuming I stay at 6 months or less.

How did you find the total cost of living out there? Able to recomend any good but -cheep- accomodation?

[Joe Black]

On accomodation, the first question of course - just like the UK, is where you're going to be working. If it's Brussels then of course it's going to be more expensive with all the Eurocrats/Expats, and Rantor is perhaps better to advise here (one of his posts recommends some places for short-term).

Generally, apart from central Brussels, renting is a lot cheaper...with two caveats, 1) the places the locals, not the expats, rent usually come with 1 year or more contracts and are unfurnished, hence part of the reason for the price difference, 2) in most cases unless you live near your work or it/your home is conveniently located it's a case of travel by car and all that entails (think M25 + Death Race 2000 ).

For the rest I'd say much the same for outgoings, some less expensive, some more.