What Language Do They Speak in Belgium?
Facts last checked 9 October 2026.
Belgium has 3 official languages: Dutch, French, German. Dutch is also an official language in 2 other countries worldwide.
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Dutch Phrasebook & Dictionary
The essentials for ordering food, asking directions and being polite.
Languages of Belgium at a glance
| Official languages | Dutch, French, German |
|---|---|
| Number of official languages | 3 |
| Countries on this site where Dutch is official | 3 |
| People (demonym) | Belgian |
| Capital | Brussels |
| Internet domain | .be |
Other countries where Dutch is official
Dutch is also an official language in 2 other countries covered here:
Languages of neighbouring countries
| France | French |
|---|---|
| Germany | German |
| Luxembourg | Luxembourgish, French, German |
| Netherlands | Dutch |
Belgium in context
- Belgium covers 30,528 km², making it the 136th largest of the 196 countries on this site.
- Its population density of about 387 people per km² ranks 24th of 196 (1st = most crowded).
- It shares a land border with 4 countries: France, Germany, Luxembourg, Netherlands.
- With 11,825,551 people, Belgium holds about 6.2% of the population of Western Europe.
- With 3 official languages, Belgium has more than most countries on this site.
- Traffic drives on the right, and calendars start the week on Monday.
- Belgium is a member state of the United Nations.
Compare Belgium
Useful phrases for visitors to Belgium
Everyday Dutch phrases you will hear and use in Belgium:
| English | Dutch |
|---|---|
| Hello | Hallo |
| Thank you | Dank u wel |
| Please | Alstublieft |
| Goodbye | Tot ziens |
| Yes | Ja |
| No | Nee |
Everyday French phrases you will hear and use in Belgium:
| English | French |
|---|---|
| Hello | Bonjour |
| Thank you | Merci |
| Please | S'il vous plaît |
| Goodbye | Au revoir |
| Yes | Oui |
| No | Non |
Spellings can vary by region, and some languages use different forms for formal or informal speech. Even a simple greeting in the local language is usually appreciated.
Languages in Belgium — FAQ
What language do they speak in Belgium?
The official languages of Belgium are Dutch, French and German.
How many official languages does Belgium have?
Belgium has 3 official languages: Dutch, French, German.
Is Dutch spoken anywhere else?
Dutch is also an official language in 2 other countries.
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