Belgium’s population is projected to grow by 1.2 million over the next 45 years, with migration driving the entire increase by 2038, according to a report from the Federal Planning Bureau released on February 11.
The report predicts that from 2038 onwards, the country’s “natural balance”—births minus deaths—will become negative, meaning migration will be the only factor fueling population growth.
By 2070, immigration could reach 165,000 people annually, mostly due to population growth in non-EU countries. The report also highlights Belgium’s rapidly aging population, with birth rates continuing to fall. In 2024, the average number of children per woman is expected to be just 1.46, stabilizing at 1.6 in the mid-2030s.
The 0-17 and 18-66 age groups are expected to remain steady, but the 67+ population will keep growing. In Flanders, population growth will be driven by both internal migration from Brussels and international migration, while the natural balance will stay negative.
