Why Antwerp is a Hub for East European Workers
Antwerp is Belgium's largest city by area and one of the world's busiest container ports. The port drives enormous demand for logistics workers, crane operators, transport drivers, and dock labourers — many of whom come from Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, and Ukraine.
Beyond the port, Antwerp is a major construction hub. Ongoing urban development projects, infrastructure upgrades, and industrial facility construction mean that worker accommodation in Antwerp is in high demand year-round.
Neighbourhoods and Districts for Worker Housing in Antwerp
Worker housing in Antwerp is concentrated in several key areas:
Deurne and Borsbeek: Located east of the city centre, these districts have good bus connections to the port and industrial areas. Housing prices here are more moderate than in the city centre, making them popular for group worker accommodation.
Merksem: This northern district borders the port directly, making it ideal for port workers. It also has good access to the E19 and E34 motorways for workers commuting to nearby industrial zones.
Hoboken: Located south of the city, Hoboken is connected to the southern port area and several major logistics parks. It's a practical choice for workers based at BASF or other industrial facilities.
Transport from Worker Housing to Antwerp Work Sites
Antwerp has an excellent public transport network operated by De Lijn, with extensive tram and bus routes covering the port area and industrial districts. Workers living in most accommodation zones within the city can reach their work sites by public transport within 30–45 minutes.
For workers based outside the city but working in Antwerp, several employers operate dedicated worker transport vans, picking up groups from central accommodation points each morning.
Cost of Worker Accommodation in Antwerp
The cost of worker accommodation in Antwerp varies depending on location, facility quality, and contract length. Shared worker housing on a per-bed basis typically ranges from competitive rates for basic facilities to premium pricing for modern, well-equipped properties close to major work sites.
All-inclusive pricing that covers utilities, internet, and basic services is generally more cost-effective for employers than managing utility contracts separately. Request transparent, all-in pricing from any provider you evaluate.
Compliance Requirements for Worker Housing in Antwerp
The City of Antwerp enforces Belgian national housing standards alongside local municipal regulations. Inspections can occur without prior notice. Employers who house workers in substandard facilities face fines from both labour and housing authorities.
Working with a certified housing provider eliminates this risk entirely. Shefa maintains all properties to full compliance standards and undergoes regular independent inspections.
Book Worker Accommodation in Antwerp with Shefa
Shefa operates a portfolio of worker accommodation properties across the Antwerp region, covering the port, industrial zones, and major construction corridors. Contact our team for availability and pricing tailored to your workforce size and project timeline.
