Are you lost in Leuven or loving it? Share your experience!external link

Almost 10 years ago internationals asked for support; IHL was the response. Take our survey to tell us what you need next. Help shape the future for internationals in Leuven.

"My advice for newcomers? Prepare yourself for an intense culture shock. Everyone experiences it differently and at different times during their stay in the city - it's normal and you are not weird for thinking otherwise."

Anirudh, India

Join Us at an Event

Here's a peak an what's coming up - check out our activities page for the full list.

Join us at Expatival 2025: our extravaganza on 17 May with 40+ activities, food, music and so much more!

Game Night at the IHL

Join us at IHL for a joyful board game evening, accessible to all!
Every other week

After-work Drinks

Join IHL for after-work drinks! It's an evening full of great conversation and delicious Belgian beer with internationals and locals from Leuven.
First Saturday of the month

Bab(b)el: Language Conversation Groups

Join our free monthly language conversation groups with 6 language choices. Come Bab(b)el with us (which is Dutch for chitchat)!

"My advice for newcomers? Get to know the city and ask a lot of questions. Chances are there is a service or an organization to help. The system may be complicated but it provides a lot."

Anonymous International

Find Answers to All Your Questions

Here are some of our most read articles, but we have a wealth of information to explore in our info hub!

Finding a Dutch Class

Participating in Dutch language classes is a key part to integrating to Flanders. Learn about the different options to enroll in Dutch courses in Leuven.

Finding a Place to Live in Leuven

Learn about the basics of renting in Leuven, finding housing, rental contracts, and cost of living.

Filing Taxes in Belgium

If you are over the age of 18 and have been living in Belgium since the previous year, it is required to file your taxes in Belgium.

Helpful Organizations for Parents in Leuven

“Kind en Gezin” and “Huis van het Kind” are two Leuven organizations that provide information about raising children, childcare services, parenting and more.

"My advice for newcomers? It's not the easiest to break in and make friends if you have come on your own, so get involved with the International House and meet up!"

Bethan, UK

Find Community at the International House

Coming to a new place can be joyous and hard. But it doesn't have to be lonely in Leuven - we're here to help you!

What is IHL?

The International House Leuven (IHL) is a non-profit that helps internationals get settled, find work, and establish a community in and around Leuven.

Welcome Ambassador Program

The ambassador program connects newcomers and seasoned Leuvenaars for a soft landing upon arrival.

Get Involved

Find out how to get involved with the International House. We have a few volunteer opportunities to help you get connected.

Activities

Join us at one of the variety of activities we host during the week and weekends.

All the Information You Need as a ... 

Newcomer

Welcome to Belgium! Check out our content and events to help get you settled into Leuven and the area.

Family

Have you moved to Leuven with your family? Or thinking about having kids? There's lots of support available in the area.

Job-seeker

Looking for a job, but having a hard time navigating the Belgian market? Check out our information and events to help you on your (new) career path!

International student? Graduating soon?

The team at IHL can play a key part in helping you get settled as a young professional after your studies. We can help by by answering complex questions, and by providing a community for internationals.

With thanks to our founders, whose collaboration has made IHL possible.

Something wrong or unclear on this page? Let us know.
This page was last updated on: 28 April 2025