Healthcare System in Belgium

Understand what to expect from the Belgian medical system if you're moving there to live and work or to retire…

Healthcare in Belgium is considered to be of a very high standard and is funded by a combination of social security contributions and private health insurance.

It is compulsory for all residents to register with a social security organisation in order to receive medical care in Belgium. Registration is essential for obtaining a Carte SIS (Social Identity Card), which is a required when visiting a doctor or getting medication from a pharmacy. Once a resident has registered, all dependents (such as children or a non-working spouse) are automatically covered under the same social insurance scheme.

This section has details on registering for healthcare, the costs of medical care, finding a doctor, emergency care, pharmacies and medication.