How good is healthcare in Belgium?
- See the data table below for detailed numbers
- Check the FAQ section for common expat questions
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How good is healthcare in Belgium really? We looked at the data — system type, costs, quality scores, and what other expats report.
Healthcare System Overview
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| System Type | Mixed |
| Healthcare Quality Index | 87/100 |
| Spending per Capita | €5,847 |
| Life Expectancy | 81.7 years |
How the System Works
Belgium's healthcare system is classified as Mixed system. The system combines public and private healthcare elements.
Public vs Private Healthcare
Most countries offer both public and private healthcare options:
- Public healthcare: Available to all registered residents. May have waiting lists for non-urgent procedures. Typically lower cost but less choice of provider.
- Private healthcare: Shorter wait times, choice of specialist. Higher cost but often better facilities. Many expats choose private insurance for the first year.
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Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Universal Emergency | 112 |
| Ambulance | 101 |
| Police | 101 |
Save these numbers in your phone before arriving in Belgium. In EU countries, 112 works universally. In non-EU countries, learn the local numbers and keep them accessible.
Health Insurance for Expats
As an expat in Belgium, your insurance options typically include:
- Employer-sponsored insurance: If employed locally, your employer may enrol you in the public system or provide private coverage
- International health insurance: Global plans from providers like Cigna, Allianz, or Bupa — ideal for the first year or if you plan to move again
- Local private insurance: Often cheaper than international plans but may have language barriers in claims
- Public system enrolment: Available once you have a residence permit and employment
Healthcare Quality
With a healthcare quality index of 87/100, Belgium offers excellent healthcare by international standards.
Life expectancy in Belgium is 81.7 years, which is above the global average.
Government healthcare spending is approximately €5847 per capita per year.
Practical Tips
- Register immediately: Sign up for health insurance within your first week of arrival
- Bring medical records: Carry translated copies of your medical history, prescriptions, and vaccination records
- Find an English-speaking doctor: Expat communities and forums often maintain lists of English-speaking practitioners
- Prescription medications: Check if your regular medications are available and legal in Belgium. Bring a 3-month supply with a doctor's letter
- Dental care: Dental coverage varies widely — check what your insurance covers and consider supplemental dental insurance
Additional Practical Information
The following information is compiled from expat community sources and recent reports to complement the official data above.
Key Institutions and Services
Based on current expat reports, the following organisations and services are relevant for newcomers to Belgium:
- Expats Health Insurance
Additional Data Points
Recent reports and expat sources provide these additional figures for Belgium:
- Exclusive discounts and additional benefits on Regency for Expats Health Insurance. Get a free quote now and save up to 40% on the best health insurance for Expats.
- Specialists in international health insurance for 40 years, offering health cover adapted to your needs as an expatriate, whether for a temporary stay or a long-term expatriation.
- by the enf of 2025, about 2.4 million Belgians will be over 65 years old. Although this isn't a huge portion of the population, it is expected that the number of seniors will only increase in the coming years. Naturally, you and your loved ones will need elderly healthcare at some point, so it is important to know your options.
- For both nursing homes and rest homes, the average monthly budget is €1,446. Note that this is an indicative price as it depends on the person's health status and the need for a more or less pronounced level of medicalization.
- by the enf of 2025, about 2.4 million Belgians will be over 65 years old. Although this isn't a huge portion of the population, it is expected that the number of seniors will only increase in the coming years. Naturally, you and your loved ones will need elderly healthcare at some point, so it is important to know your options.
- In Belgium, health insurance is mandatory. You can also obtain supplementary health insurance policies , which can help cover healthcare expenses you might incur.
- However, some Brussels municipalities are exploring regional alternatives, such as professional exemption cards or parking facilities for medical caregivers . It is important to inquire directly with your municipal administration to find out what options are available in your neighborhood.
- For both nursing homes and rest homes, the average monthly budget is €1,446. Note that this is an indicative price as it depends on the person's health status and the need for a more or less pronounced level of medicalization.
Additional data sourced from expat community reports. All information should be verified with official sources.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are prescriptions from my home country valid in Belgium?
Foreign prescriptions are generally not valid in Belgium. Bring a translated copy of your prescriptions and a doctor's letter explaining your medication needs. Visit a local GP to get prescriptions reissued. Some medications may have different brand names or availability.
How does mental health care work in Belgium?
Mental health services in Belgium vary in availability and quality. Public sector waiting times for non-emergency mental health care can be long. Private psychologists and psychiatrists are available in urban areas. Check if your insurance covers mental health consultations.
What is the quality of healthcare in Belgium?
Belgium's healthcare quality index is 87/100, ranking it among the top healthcare systems globally. Life expectancy is 81.7 years. Healthcare spending per capita is €5847.
How much does healthcare cost in Belgium?
Government healthcare spending is approximately €5847 per capita. Out-of-pocket costs depend on your insurance type and coverage. Private insurance premiums for expats typically range from €100-500 per month depending on age and coverage. GP visits, specialist consultations, and prescriptions may have co-payments.
How long are hospital waiting times in Belgium?
With a healthcare index of 87/100, waiting times in Belgium are generally short for both emergency and elective procedures. Private hospitals typically offer shorter waiting times.