Mostly yes, in cities. English carries most day-to-day situations in Belgium, while admin and smaller towns expect the local language. Belgium scores 70/100 for English in this model, the 10th highest of the 27 EU countries, and the main language is Dutch and French. These are MoveMap's rough, illustrative estimates to help you get oriented, not official statistics. Always confirm the specifics with official sources before you act.
Getting by day to day
English gets you a long way in cities and with younger people. Everyday admin and smaller towns often expect the local language, so some learning helps a lot. Younger people, hospitality and international workplaces are where English is strongest; older residents and rural areas, less so.
At work and with paperwork
Belgium has a sizeable international community, so English-speaking services, groups and workplaces are easy to find. Either way, official documents, tax forms and healthcare admin are usually in Dutch and French, and a local friend or translator helps early on.
Learning the local language
The main language is Dutch and French, which takes real effort, though everyday basics come with regular practice. Even a basic level opens doors socially and at the shops, and it is often expected on the road to permanent residence or citizenship.
How Belgium compares
Among the 27 EU countries, Belgium ranks the 10th most English-friendly in this model.