The search for a house
After you have been recognised as a refugee, you have 2 months to find your own home. After that time, you must leave the reception centre or the house of the CPAS/OCMW.
As soon as you are recognised as a refugee in Belgium, you will have to look for your own home. This may be a studio, apartment or a house. After being recognised as a refugee, you can continue to live in the reception centre or in the house of the CPAS/OCMW for another 2 months. Use this time to look for a house! If you still have not found a house after 2 months, Fedasil can extend this period to a maximum of 4 months.
Get your documents in order
Before you start looking for your own home, make sure all your documents are in order.
- An electronic identity card (A)
- A bank account and bank card
- Health insurance
You need these documents to conclude a rental contract
Where can you find a suitable house?
You can look for a house
- on the private market: through an estate agency or through friends, acquaintances or volunteers who will help you find one.
- on the social market: a Social Rental Office (SVK/AIS) or the Social Housing Company (SHM/SLS) offer houses to people who need a home.
What do you need to be aware of when renting a house?
- Check that the house is in good condition. Is there enough space? Are there damp patches? Is there water, heating and electricity? Is the house a safe place for your family?
- Make sure you do not pay too much! Ask your social worker, or trusted person who has been living in Belgium for some time, for advice.
- The landlord and you (the tenant) have to sign a rental contract.