Context

To date, the acquisition of properties located in Belgium is subject to registration duties at a rate of 12.5% (6% for small dwellings).

Headline

On the basis of the “Lambermont”-agreement of 29 June 2001, the Flanders’ government plans to:

• reduce the aforesaid registration duties to 10% (5% for small eligible dwellings for individuals only);

For individuals :

• provide the possibility to claim the reimbursement or the deduction, as the case may be, of registration duties (with a maximum of EUR 12,500) paid on the former residence provided it is sold within maximum two years after the purchase of the new principal residence;
• provide the exemption of registration duties on the first bracket of EUR 12,500 for the purchase of the first ever principal residence being the sole property;

Expected entry into force: January 1, 2002

Please note that the decree project has not been approved nor made public yet and that the practical details are not available.

Reference: Press release Flemish Government October 26, 2001