FAQ
International House
West Flanders
What is International House West Flanders?
International House West Flanders is an initiative that runs under the Voka - Chamber of Commerce and Industry of West-Flanders and is supported by the Flemish Government, the City of Kortrijk, the City of Bruges, the City of Roeselare, and two private entities - UNILIN and Stadsbader.
We helps internationals, companies, and individuals settle and thrive in West Flanders by providing support on relocation, learning the local language, networking, local information, and practical services.
We are...
- SPOC of international newcomers and citizens in the region of West Flanders
- Bridge between companies and international talents in the region fo West Flanders
- Information Hub in English for international newcomers and citizens on social, tax, legal matters
- Online consultation for urgent or significant matters
Most importantly, we are the "Home Away from Home" for international citizens.
Who can use your services or join your events?
Our community is available to:
- International newcomers relocating to West Flanders
- Companies hiring international employees (of all levels of skills)
- Expat Families
- International students studying long or short-term in West Flanders
- Retired international citizens staying connected with social groups
- Local citizens curious and interested in making international friends
While our knowledge and services are more directed towards skilled workers and companies, we do open our arms to public for our social events, which refers to anyone interested in connecting locally and cross-culturally.
More often than not, there are also local participants joining our events because they find it interesting and nurturing to be in touch with diverse cultures through our activities.
How can International House West Flanders help me?
International House West Flanders offers a wide rage of services and networks.
Problem-Solving & -Supporting
Whether you have questions concerning searching for jobs, looking for houses, or applying/extending your visa and permit, we are here to support you with our information and knowledge. Most of the time, we also provide contact person for specific services that can be of direct help to your situation.
Social Network & Local Connection
Through our social events, participants can freely connect and socialize with each other and connect not only socially but also professionally. Connections matter, especially for people that are in the process of landing a job position in Flanders.
Bridge towards West-Flemish Labour Market
On a yearly basis, we provide online information sessions towards general public and in-person sessions towards educational institutions on the topic of Labour Market in West Flanders. In these sessions, audience receive all types of relevant information, for instance, the procedure of Search-Year application for international students to look for jobs after graduation, the up-to-date situation in the local labour market, and so on.
Besides, starting from January 2026, we are organizing more professional networking events through which participants can get acquinted with each other based on professional purposes. This can be also be beneficial to talents that are still searching for jobs considering the wide range of sectors and companies that our community friends are working in.
Upcoming Networking Events:
Two-Year Celebration of International House West Flanders
Business-Speeddating (for expats)
How can I sign up for your events?
All our social events are open to public. Registration can be done directly through our website (EVENT)
While registration is not required to enter our events, we do encourage participants to sign up on our website in advance. Early registration helps us know how many people to expect and how we can arrange the space before the event.
In case it is not possible to confirm your attendance beforehand, you are of course still welcome to pop up directly.
In accordance, in case of sudden cancellation, we also appreciate prior notification, especially for our highlighted events such as Career Workshop, Business Speeddating or Coffee Morning in Dutch since these events are sometimes limited for certain amount of participants.
How much do you charge for your services and events?
Our services and events are completely free. Online consultation can be booked directly through our website, and no fee will be charged for registration. If you join our social events - Coffee Mornings and Afterworks, we cover your first drink with us.
Are your events only for internationals or people with jobs?
No, our events are open to public. This means that we also welcome local citizens to join us.
Most participants from our socila events can range from age 20 - age 70. We keep our community inclusive and welcoming to all background. From time to time, some participants also join with their family with younger children.
Can I join your events if I don't speak Dutch or English?
Yes, absolutely!
Our events are mainly English spoken, and over half of our participants are in the process of learning Dutch language. Therefore both languages can work in our community.
Even both English and Dutch are difficult for you, you can also Contact Us beforehand to check if there will be other participants that speak your native language.
How long can I use your services after arriving in Belgium?
There is no time limit for using our services and joining our events.
In our community, some friends have already been in Belgium for over a decade, others might even be local residents. Are you curious about how our community is? Join us in our next event!