Belgium: a question of region and language
As a neighboring, partly French-speaking country, Belgium is a natural destination for French candidates. But the country is multilingual, and the language of your CV is the most sensitive point.
Which language for which region?
- Wallonia: French.
- Flanders: Dutch.
- Brussels: bilingual French/Dutch, with English common in institutions and multinationals.
Bilingualism (French/Dutch) is a considerable asset on the Belgian job market, so make it stand out in your languages section. Applying in French in Flanders without a command of Dutch sharply reduces your chances.
Format and photo
The Belgian CV is concise (one to two pages), reverse chronological, and factual, close to the French format. A photo is optional and left to your judgment. See our guide should you put a photo on your CV.
Structure
Standard sections: contact details, work experience, education, skills, and above all languages with precise levels (the point Belgian recruiters look at most). A cover letter tailored to the job posting is appreciated.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using the wrong language for the region (French in Flanders, Dutch in Wallonia).
- Underestimating the importance of the languages section.
- A CV that is too long: concision is valued.
- Not tailoring your CV to the job posting (same as the French market on this point).
Adapt your CV for Belgium with CVpass
On CVpass, choose "Belgium" as your target country. The tool adapts the language (French by default), polishes the expected concise structure, and highlights your languages. Your ATS score is recalculated against Belgian expectations.
FAQ
What language should a CV for Belgium be in?
It depends on the employer's region: French in Wallonia, Dutch in Flanders, and French/Dutch (often with English) in Brussels. Applying in French in Flanders without a command of Dutch sharply reduces your chances.
Is bilingualism important on a Belgian CV?
Yes, it is a major asset on the Belgian job market. State your levels in French and Dutch (and English) clearly in the languages section, the point recruiters look at most.
Do you need a photo on a Belgian CV?
A photo is optional and left to your judgment. The Belgian CV is concise (one to two pages), reverse chronological, and factual, very close to the French format.
Further reading
- Applying abroad: the country-by-country CV guide
- CV in English: adapting your CV to apply abroad
- Swiss CV: the rules for applying in Switzerland
- Should you put a photo on your CV? The guide by country
Apply in Belgium with a CV that meets local standards. Adapt my CV for Belgium on CVpass