Belgium Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in Belgium

Belgium’s healthcare is of high quality and is made affordable thanks to the EU’s public system that ensures residents have access to affordable healthcare. However, expats are strongly urged to purchase health insurance in order to make most of private healthcare, which is faster.

Those moving or traveling to Belgium will undoubtedly have many questions regarding how the Belgian healthcare system works, as well as whether private health insurance is necessary. 

This Pacific Prime guide provides information about health insurance in Belgium for foreigners and locals, what to consider when taking out a policy, as well as about the country’s healthcare system. 

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Belgium

Overview of Belgium’s Public and Private Healthcare

Belgium’s healthcare system is renowned for its high-quality standards. The public system covers up to 75% of treatment costs. Services such as pharmacy rotations ensure 24-hour medicine access, while inpatient care incurs fixed daily charges plus additional fees for medicines and treatments.

Private healthcare in Belgium complements the public system, offering top-up policies for broader coverage. Many residents opt for private insurance to cover costs beyond public limits. Unlike general care, dental services in Belgium are mostly private, requiring private health insurance coverage. 

Public Healthcare in Belgium

Belgium's healthcare system is mostly public and is funded by social security contributions, general taxation, and goods and services taxation (VAT), and is made up of private practitioners, government services, and university-led hospitals. 

For easier understanding, the Belgian healthcare system is made up of three parts:

• Publicly Funded Healthcare: run by the federal government, this includes healthcare and social security services.
• Private/Public Practitioners: These include independent practitioners.
• University/Semi-Private Hospitals and Care Institutions: These include some private hospitals that are commercially run for profit. 

Listed below are some of the best public hospitals in Belgium. These hospitals operate within the country's comprehensive and well-funded healthcare system, which combines public and private elements: 

• UZ Leuven (Leuven): Affiliated with KU Leuven, this hospital is renowned for its cutting-edge medical research and specialized care facilities. It is one of the largest and most respected hospitals in the country.
• UZ Brussel (Brussels): Linked to the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), UZ Brussel is a top-tier university hospital known for its advanced medical technology and patient care.
• UZ Gent (Ghent): Associated with Ghent University, UZ Gent offers a wide range of services and is noted for its expertise in oncology and cardiovascular medicine.
• Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc (Brussels): Part of the Catholic University of Louvain, this hospital provides high-quality care and is particularly strong in pediatrics and oncology.
• AZ Sint-Jan (Bruges): This general hospital serves the West Flanders region and is recognized for its excellent patient care and state-of-the-art facilities.
• CHU de Liège (Liège): As a teaching hospital, CHU de Liège is known for its strong emphasis on medical education and research.
• AZ Sint-Lucas (Ghent): This hospital provides a wide range of services and is appreciated for its patient-friendly approach.

Private Healthcare in Belgium

Private healthcare in Belgium allows patients to choose their own hospitals and medical professionals. Most insurers require patients to pay for medical costs upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement.

Listed below are some things to know about private healthcare in Belgium.  

• Insurance: Many private health insurance policies allow patients to choose their own hospitals and medical professionals. Most insurers require patients to pay for medical costs upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement.  
• Coverage: Private health insurance can cover a wider range of treatments, including ambulance transport, hospital stays, surgery, and shorter waiting periods.  
• Cost: Private healthcare in Belgium can be expensive, especially at private hospitals in Brussels and Antwerp.  
• Doctors: Most doctors in Belgium work in both public and private institutions, and many have a proficient understanding of English. 
• Clinics: Religious organizations or universities typically manage private clinics, which provide basic treatment for minor ailments. 
• Specialists: Many specialists combine their private practice with a hospital posting or teaching position. 
• Experts and Assessment Consultants: These specialists evaluate patients as a second opinion or for insurance purposes. 

Here is a list of some of the best private hospitals in Belgium. These private hospitals deliver comprehensive medical services with advanced technology and expertise, often catering to both Belgian nationals and expatriates: 

• Chirec Hospital Group (Brussels): A leading network offering high-quality healthcare across several sites, including the renowned Edith Cavell and Delta Clinics. Known for advanced treatments and patient-focused services​.
• Middelheim Hospital (Antwerp): Part of the ZNA group, this private hospital is recognized for excellent care, particularly in specialized fields such as cardiology and orthopedics​.
• Antwerp University Hospital (UZA): While it operates semi-privately, UZA provides exceptional care, specializing in complex medical treatments and innovative research​. 
• Saint Elisabeth Clinic (Namur): A high-quality private hospital offering diverse medical services and modern facilities, catering to both local and international patients​.

Health Insurance Options for Expats in Belgium

When foreign nationals gain employment in Belgium, they are required to choose between joining the national health insurance scheme or obtaining private health insurance. The reason for this legislation is due to the fact that Belgian hospitals are extremely expensive. 

For a foreign national to join one of the national insurance funds for public coverage, they must obtain written confirmation from their employer stating that they work and live in Belgium. After that, the individual chooses an insurance fund. 

Private Health Insurance for Expats in Belgium

Private health insurance is a popular choice for expats to enhance their medical security and gain access to benefits not covered by the public system. This includes coverage for services like private hospital rooms, specialized treatments, or faster access to care.

Private health insurance also proves essential for those who frequently travel, as many international plans offer global healthcare access, medical evacuation, and multilingual support. 

The following is a list of the main characteristics of private health insurance in Belgium:

• Supplementary Coverage: Covers out-of-pocket costs, such as dental care, optical services, and private hospital stays not fully reimbursed by public healthcare.
• Employer-Sponsored Options: Some companies provide private insurance as part of employee benefits, covering premiums partially or fully. 
• Self-Employed and Freelancers: Tailored plans are available for those outside traditional employment structures, offering flexible coverage options.
• Comprehensive and International Plans: Ideal for expats needing worldwide healthcare access or specialized care, including repatriation and medical evacuation.
• Tailored Expat Policies: Many providers offer plans designed for expats, featuring multilingual customer support and direct billing with select providers.

Public Health Insurance for Expats in Belgium

Belgium’s public health insurance system ensures that residents, including expats, have access to high-quality healthcare. Funded through social security contributions, this system partially reimburses a range of medical expenses, such as doctor visits, hospital care, and prescriptions.

Enrollment in one of the country’s health insurance funds (ziekenfonds or mutuelle) is mandatory for anyone living or working in Belgium, with contributions automatically deducted from salaries.

Public health insurance is comprehensive but may not cover all healthcare costs. For example, while consultations and treatments are partially reimbursed, certain specialized services or comfort options, like private hospital rooms, require additional payment.

The key characteristics of Belgium's public health insurance system for expats include:

• Mandatory Enrollment: Expats must register with a health insurance fund upon securing residency or employment in Belgium.
• Social Security Contribution: Automatic deductions from salaries finance public healthcare access.
• Dependents Coverage: Non-working family members, like spouses and children, can be included under the same insurance plan.
• Partial Reimbursements: Covers up to 75% of general healthcare costs, with some out-of-pocket payments for non-covered services.
• Flexibility in Choice: Expats can choose from five subsidized mutual funds or a public government option.

International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Belgium

Expats in Belgium can choose from a variety of coverage options offered by international insurance providers such as Cigna, AXA, Allianz, April International, and many more. Below, we will go over each service provider and give you a rundown of what each plan has to offer.

Cigna Global Insurance Plan

Cigna offers global health plans with different tiers (Silver, Gold, and Platinum) that cover services such as hospitalization, inpatient and day patient treatments, emergency evacuation, and preventive care. This flexibility makes Cigna a preferred option for those needing adaptable coverage.

Some examples of shared coverage by all Cigna insurance plans include:

AXA

AXA Global health insurance provides various levels of customizable coverage, including options for hospitalization, outpatient treatments, emergency care, and medical evacuation. AXA’s plans are popular among expats for their coverage for a wide range of health services. 

Some examples of shared coverage by all AXA insurance plans include:

Allianz

Allianz offers international insurance plans that can cover hospitalization, surgeries, diagnostics, and outpatient care. Expats in Belgium can add riders for dental and optical services to any basic plan, providing a tailored insurance experience that accommodates different health needs.

Some of the basic coverage for their plans includes:

April International

April International specializes in health insurance tailored to expats, offering plans that cover hospitalization, outpatient services, dental, and maternity. Known for user-friendly mobile claims and support, April International also has a 24/7 telemedicine service and a vast direct billing network.

Some of the shared coverage across their plans are:

Factors to Consider When Choosing Health Insurance in Belgium

When selecting health insurance as an expat in Belgium, there are several essential aspects to evaluate such as those listed below:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Belgium's public healthcare system reimburses a significant portion of medical expenses, but certain treatments, private rooms, or specialized care may require private insurance. Supplemental coverage for dental, optical, or alternative therapies is also common among expats​.
• Employer-Sponsored Plans: Some employers in Belgium offer private health insurance as part of employee benefits. These plans may cover premiums fully or partially, which can significantly reduce personal expenses​.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Private insurers in Belgium vary in their approach to pre-existing conditions. Some may impose waiting periods or higher premiums, while others exclude such conditions entirely. Be sure to clarify these terms before committing to a policy​.
• Family Coverage: Expats with dependents should ensure their chosen policy extends coverage to family members. While public healthcare covers dependent children and spouses in many cases, private insurance may offer more tailored family options​.
• International Coverage: For those who frequently travel, international private health insurance with worldwide access, medical evacuation, and multilingual support is worth considering​.
• Claims and Reimbursement Process: Belgian healthcare often requires patients to pay upfront, with reimbursement processed later by insurers. Look for policies with straightforward claims procedures and options for direct billing at select providers​.

Health and Safety Tips for Expats and Travellers in Belgium

Belgium is a generally safe and welcoming country for expats and travelers, but ensuring your safety and well-being involves being aware of local nuances and practices. Here are essential tips to help you navigate health and safety in Belgium:

• Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for medical, fire, or police emergencies. This centralized number is free and operational across the EU.
• Healthcare Access: Belgium boasts a high-quality healthcare system. If you're staying long-term, consider registering for public health insurance. Otherwise, ensure you have comprehensive private health insurance to cover medical costs.
• Vaccinations: Ensure routine vaccinations such as tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap), and measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) are up to date. Hepatitis A and B vaccinations are recommended for long-term visitors or those at higher risk.
• Food and Water Safety: Tap water is safe to drink, and food hygiene standards are high. Exercise caution with food from unfamiliar vendors and consume bottled water in less urbanized areas to avoid any potential issues.
• Public Transportation: Belgium’s public transit system is efficient but can attract pickpockets in crowded areas, especially in major cities like Brussels and Antwerp. Keep valuables secure and stay alert.
• Road Safety: Roads are generally well maintained, but traffic congestion in cities can be challenging. Be cautious when driving or cycling, and always follow traffic rules. Winter travelers should prepare for icy roads, particularly in rural areas.
• Pickpocketing and Scams: Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, is common in tourist-heavy areas and busy public transit hubs. Avoid displaying valuables and remain vigilant in crowded spaces.
• Protests and Strikes: Demonstrations and strikes occur regularly in Belgium and can disrupt services, especially public transportation. Monitor local news and avoid areas of unrest.
• Terrorism Awareness: Like other European countries, Belgium has faced isolated terrorist incidents. Stay informed of security alerts and follow local authorities' advice.
• Cultural Etiquette and Laws: Always carry valid identification, as it is required by law. Additionally, familiarize yourself with local laws, such as bans on public face coverings, and adhere to regulations on alcohol consumption and smoking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an EHIC card in Belgium?

Temporary visitors to Belgium from the EU/EEA/Switzerland can receive discounted healthcare through their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Those without an EHIC and visitors from outside the EU will need to purchase private health insurance for Belgium. 

Do I need health insurance in Belgium if I’m an expat?

All residents in Belgium, including expats, must have health insurance. Public health insurance is available to those living and working in the country, funded through social security contributions. 

How does the Belgian healthcare system handle billing?

In Belgium, the healthcare system often works on a reimbursement basis. Patients pay upfront for medical consultations or treatments and then submit receipts to their insurance provider for partial reimbursement. 

Conclusion

Whether you are planning a move to Belgium soon or have already settled there and are in need of affordable, high-quality health insurance for your family, Pacific Prime can help you navigate the system of options.

The brokers at Pacific Prime have been helping international families find affordable health insurance for over 20 years. In addition to this, the policies will offer you a number of additional benefits, including coverage for outpatient treatment and dental and maternity protection.

Contact us today right away if you have any questions or would like to use our online system to compare quotes.