Healthcare in Belgium is renowned for its high quality and efficiency, consistently ranking among the top healthcare systems in Europe. The country offers comprehensive medical services, with a strong emphasis on preventative care and advanced treatment options, ensuring that residents have access to both public and private healthcare facilities.
Belgium’s healthcare system is notable for its accessibility and affordability. Residents benefit from a well-structured social security system, which covers a significant portion of medical costs, while supplementary private insurance can further reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
For expats, understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial. Knowing your options, from registering with a local doctor to choosing the right insurance plan, ensures that you can access timely, quality care whilst avoiding unexpected costs.
Public healthcare in Belgium
Public healthcare in Belgium is primarily funded through the country’s social security system and is accessible to a broad range of residents. Citizens, permanent residents, and expats who hold the appropriate residence permits or visas that include social security contributions are typically eligible to access public healthcare services. Registration with a local health insurance fund (mutuelle or ziekenfonds) would be required to benefit from reimbursements.
The quality of care in public healthcare facilities is high. Hospitals are well-equipped, and doctors are highly trained, with many specialists offering advanced treatment options. Wait times can vary depending on the service – routine appointments are usually quick to arrange, but non-urgent specialist consultations can require longer waits.
Healthcare costs in Belgium are partly subsidised. Patients typically pay a portion of the medical bill upfront, and the remainder is reimbursed through the health insurance fund. Emergency care is fully covered, and standard consultations, hospital stays, and prescriptions may involve copayments, which will be reduced for those who have supplementary insurance.
Accessing public healthcare requires registration with a health insurance fund and obtaining a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if applicable. Expats must ensure they are correctly registered to avoid unexpected costs.
Some limitations do exist. Language barriers can be an issue in certain regions, particularly in rural areas where French, Dutch, or German is primarily spoken. Overcrowding can occur in busy urban hospitals, and while the system covers most standard treatments, certain elective procedures or complementary therapies might not be fully reimbursed. Some expats opt for international health insurance to ensure they can avoid out-of-pocket costs.
Does Belgium have free healthcare?
Belgium does not offer entirely free healthcare. Instead, the system operates on a subsidised model, where patients pay a portion of the cost for medical services, and the remainder is reimbursed through the country’s health insurance system. Most residents, including expats who contribute to social security, are entitled to these reimbursements after registering with a health insurance fund.
Emergency care and essential treatments are covered to a large extent, but routine consultations, hospital stays, and prescriptions usually involve copayments. Many residents opt for supplementary private insurance to further reduce out-of-pocket expenses and cover services that might not be fully reimbursed by the public system.
Does Belgium have free healthcare?
Private healthcare in Belgium
Private healthcare in Belgium typically offers a more personalised and flexible alternative to public services. One of the main advantages is shorter wait times for consultations, diagnostic tests, and elective procedures. Facilities often provide higher comfort levels, including private rooms and modern amenities, and many private hospitals and clinics have English-speaking staff, which can be particularly helpful for expats.
Costs in private healthcare are higher than in the public system. A standard consultation with a private general practitioner typically ranges from €50 to €100, while specialist appointments can cost between €100 and €200. Hospital stays, surgeries, and advanced treatments vary widely depending on the procedure and facility.
Popular private hospitals and clinics include UZ Brussel, Saint-Luc University Hospital, and the European Hospital in Brussels, which all known for quality care and international patient services.
Expats using private healthcare are strongly advised to have comprehensive health insurance, either through a Belgian provider or an international plan. Many private facilities require upfront payment, with reimbursement later through insurance, which makes coverage essential to avoid high out-of-pocket expenses. Private insurance can also help cover services that aren’t fully reimbursed by public healthcare, which results in more predictable costs and access to a broader range of treatments.
Health insurance for expats in Belgium
Health insurance is mandatory for expats in Belgium. Anyone registering as a resident and contributing to the Belgian social security system must join a local health insurance fund (mutuelle or ziekenfonds). This provides access to the public healthcare system and reimbursements for medical costs.
Expats can choose between solely local plans, or supplement with an international health insurance plan for broader protection. Local plans offer full access to public healthcare and are usually more affordable, while international plans can provide additional coverage, including private hospital care, repatriation, and treatment outside Belgium.
Typical health insurance coverage includes GP visits, specialist consultations, hospital care, prescribed medications, and maternity care. Exclusions often include elective cosmetic procedures, complementary therapies, and certain non-essential treatments, which may require private insurance for reimbursement.
Costs of health insurance will vary depending on the plan. Local health insurance contributions are usually around €100–€150 per month for adults, depending on income and coverage, while comprehensive international plans can range from €100 to €400 per month. Expats can purchase local coverage by registering with a recognised health insurance fund, while international plans are available directly from private insurers online or through brokers specialising in expat healthcare.
Pharmacies and medication in Belgium
Pharmacies in Belgium are widely available, with most towns and cities having at least one local pharmacy. Medications are divided into prescription-only and over-the-counter (OTC) categories. Common remedies such as painkillers, cold medicine, and basic first-aid supplies are usually available without a prescription, whilst antibiotics, chronic disease medications, and specialised treatments will require a doctor’s prescription.
To fill a prescription, you can take it to any registered pharmacy. Pharmacists are highly trained and can provide advice on proper use, potential side effects, and interactions with other medications. Many pharmacies also offer English-speaking staff, particularly in larger cities.
The cost will depend on whether the medication is covered by public health insurance. Most prescription drugs are partially reimbursed through your health insurance fund – patients will pay a copayment that varies depending on the drug and the level of coverage. Over-the-counter medications are paid entirely out of pocket, but prices are generally reasonable. Expats with supplementary or private insurance might have a larger portion of prescription costs reimbursed, which can help to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Pharmacies and medication in Belgium
Hospitals in Belgium
Public vs private hospitals
Belgium has both public and private hospitals, each offering high-quality care. Public hospitals provide comprehensive care at subsidised rates, whilst private hospitals and clinics offer shorter wait times, more personalised services, and higher comfort standards. There are over 100 major hospitals across the country, with good coverage for both urban and regional populations.
Hospitals in Belgium
Quality of hospitals in Belgium
Belgian hospitals are highly regarded for their quality of care, modern facilities, and well-trained staff. A number of Belgian hospitals, particularly university hospitals such as Saint-Luc in Brussels and UZ Leuven, meet international accreditation standards, such as JCI, and enjoy strong reputations among expats and international patients.
English-speaking staff in Belgium hospitals
English-speaking medical staff are widely available in major cities and private hospitals. Many facilities also offer interpreter services or multilingual patient support, helping to ensure that expats can communicate effectively with doctors and nurses.
Top hospitals in major cities
Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Leuven host some of the country’s leading hospitals. Notable examples include Saint-Luc University Hospital in Brussels, UZ Leuven, and AZ Maria Middelares in Ghent, all known for advanced treatments and specialist care.
Services offered in hospitals in Belgium
Hospitals in Belgium provide a full range of services, including emergency care, specialised treatments, maternity services, surgeries, and diagnostic testing. Certain hospitals are recognised for expertise in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology.
Hospital admission process
For non-emergency treatments, a referral from a GP or specialist is usually required. Patients should have their residence card and health insurance details ready. Emergency cases are accepted directly at both public and private hospitals. Private hospitals might not always require a referral, although it is sometimes recommended.
Costs of healthcare in Belgium hospitals
Costs will vary depending on the hospital type and service. Outpatient consultations typically range from €25 to €100, while inpatient stays can cost a few hundred euros per day before reimbursement. Public insurance covers a significant portion of costs, and supplementary insurance can reduce out-of-pocket expenses, particularly in private hospitals.
Facilities and comfort
Private hospitals generally offer higher comfort levels, including private rooms and hotel-style amenities. Public hospitals still maintain high medical standards but often provide more basic accommodation, with shared wards for standard care.
Healthcare insurance acceptance
All Belgian hospitals accept local health insurance. Private hospitals might require upfront payment, with reimbursement later through insurance. Many also accept international or supplementary insurance, though direct billing arrangements will vary by facility, so it’s best to confirm coverage in advance.
Belgium emergency services
In Belgium, the universal emergency number is 112, which can be dialled from any phone to reach police, fire, and medical services. Ambulances are staffed with trained paramedics and, in some cases, doctors, ensuring professional and timely care. Emergency departments in hospitals are typically well-equipped to handle a wide range of urgent medical situations. Response times are generally quick in urban areas, although rural locations can experience slightly longer waits.
Expats should keep a copy of their residence card, health insurance details, and any relevant medical records easily accessible, and it can be helpful to learn basic medical phrases in French, Dutch, or German depending on the region. Registering with a local GP and knowing the location of the nearest hospital with an emergency department can also save valuable time.
Belgium emergency services
Vaccinations in Belgium
Belgium does not require any specific vaccinations for entry for most travellers, including expats coming from Europe or North America. However, it is recommended that routine vaccinations, such as those for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, polio, and influenza, are up to date.
Depending on your personal health situation, lifestyle, or travel to other regions before arriving in Belgium, your doctor might also recommend vaccines for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, or other preventable diseases. You should consult with your healthcare provider before your move to ensure you are fully protected and to discuss any additional vaccines that might be advisable.
Common health risks in Belgium
Belgium is considered a low-risk country in terms of infectious diseases, and there are no major tropical illnesses like dengue or malaria. The most common health risks for residents and expats relate to seasonal illnesses such as influenza, colds, and other respiratory infections. Foodborne illnesses can also occur, as in any country, but generally, proper food handling and hygiene significantly reduce the risk.
Preventive measures include keeping up to date with routine vaccinations, practising good hand hygiene, and taking standard food safety precautions, such as washing fruits and vegetables and ensuring meat and dairy products are properly stored and cooked. Seasonal flu vaccines are recommended, especially for those who have underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems. You should also maintain regular contact with a local GP to manage any chronic conditions and receive advice on preventive care.
Tips for staying healthy in Belgium
Here are some tips to help expats stay healthy while living in Belgium:
- Protect against seasonal illnesses such as colds and flu by keeping up to date with vaccinations, including the annual influenza vaccine, and practising good hand hygiene.
- Use sun protection during the summer months, especially when spending time outdoors.
- Follow safe food practices by washing fresh produce, storing meat and dairy properly, and ensuring meals are well-cooked.
- Know the emergency number 112 for medical assistance and familiarise yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or emergency department.
- Keep essential medications and a basic first aid kit on hand, particularly if living in rural areas where pharmacies may be less accessible.
- Be aware of ticks in wooded or grassy areas, particularly in the Ardennes region; use insect repellent and check for ticks after outdoor activities.
- Prioritise mental health by maintaining social connections, managing stress, and seeking support if needed while adjusting to life in a new country.
- Stay active and take advantage of Belgium’s walking and cycling paths, which can help support both physical and mental wellbeing.
Tips for staying healthy in Belgium
Useful resources
- Emergency number for medical, police and fire: 112
- Belgium Ministry of Health, Food Chain Safety, and Environment: https://www.health.belgium.be/en
- Belgium expat forums for community advice: