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Are you packing your bags for a move to the beautiful country of Belgium? Maybe you are a student, an ex-pat, or simply someone with a taste for waffles and good drinks. Whatever your reason for moving to Belgium, taking care of your health and well-being should be at the top of your list. Belgium is a country that takes care of its people, and it is reflected in the country’s ranking in the 5th spot in the 2023 Euro Health Consumer Index – some even call it “Europe’s most generous healthcare system.”
This blog is your one-stop guide to healthy living in Belgium in 2025. We will get into everything from navigating the healthcare system to incorporating delicious Belgian cuisine into a balanced diet. We will also let you in on the best ways to stay active and embrace the outdoorsy Belgian lifestyle.
Settling into the Belgian Healthcare System
Moving to Belgium is exciting! But amidst the waffle-fueled adventures, prioritizing your health is key. Let’s explore the Belgian health and wellness system, helping you find the right doctors and understand how things work.
A System of Choice and Accessibility
Belgium’s healthcare system operates on two pillars: the public and private sectors. This structure allows residents to choose their preferred level of care across the country’s three regions (Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels).
The core principle is universality, guaranteeing that everyone has access to high-quality healthcare. This is achieved through mandatory expat health insurance in Belgium, which subsidizes a wide range of services.
The Powerhouse of “Mutualité” (Health Insurance)
Upon joining the workforce in Belgium, enrolling in social security becomes mandatory. As part of this process, you will also contribute to a health insurance fund, known as a “mutualité” (mutuelle in French, ziekenfonds in Dutch). Here’s how it works:
- Choosing Your “Mutualité”
The beauty lies in choice! You can select the health insurance fund that best suits your needs. Each fund offers slightly different coverage options and benefits.
- Contribution Breakdown
Expect to contribute 7.35% of your gross salary towards health insurance. This contribution is typically shared between you and your employer, with you paying 3.55% and your employer covering the remaining 3.8%. Self-employed individuals shoulder the full 7.35% contribution.
A Note on Initial Coverage
If you haven’t previously paid social security contributions in another country, there might be a waiting period (up to 6 months) before you receive full reimbursements for healthcare services. However, fret not! Here are your temporary coverage options:
- EHIC (European Health Insurance Card)
If you’re a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you can utilize your EHIC card for basic medical care during this waiting period.
- Private Health Insurance
For more comprehensive coverage from the outset, you can opt for private health insurance. This can be particularly useful if you require immediate access to specialists or prefer shorter waiting times for appointments.
The Registration Process
- Social Security First
If you’re navigating the healthcare system in Belgium for ex-pats, your journey begins with registering for social security. Your employer typically handles this, but you can also visit your local Social Security office with your passport, residence permit, and proof of address. This registration process grants you a social security card, also known as an eID.
- Picking Your “Mutualité”
Once you have your eID, you can choose your preferred health insurance fund (mutuelle/ziekenfonds). Research different funds to find one that aligns with your needs and budget.
Once registered with your chosen health insurance fund, you will receive a membership card. When you visit a doctor, hospital, or other healthcare provider, the bill is usually paidupfront. Don’t worry, you’ll get reimbursed! Simply submit the receipt and other necessary documents to your mutuelle/ziekenfonds for a partial or full refund, depending on the service and your specific coverage plan.
Emergency Situations
- Medical Emergencies
In case of a medical emergency, dial 100 for immediate assistance
- Emergency Doctor
For urgent medical situations after hours, you can reach an emergency doctor by calling 1307
- On-Call Pharmacy
If you need medication outside of regular pharmacy hours, dial 0900 10 500 / 070 66 0160 to locate an on-call pharmacy (fees may apply).
- Life-Threatening Situations
For life-threatening emergencies, remember the pan-European emergency number 112. You can also use 114 if you’re hearing impaired.
Eating Healthy in Belgium
Don’t let the reputation of hearty dishes fool you. Healthy living in Belgium is absolutely possible!
- Traditional Delights with a Twist
While waffles, fries (frites!), and mussels are Belgian staples, there’s more to the story. Explore healthier variations – opt for whole wheat waffles, savor baked fries with a side salad, or try steamed mussels in a light broth.
- A Focus on Freshness
Belgian cuisine often highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients. Embrace this! Visit bustling farmers markets (like the daily marche at Place du Jeu de Balle in Brussels) to stock up on local fruits, vegetables, and lean protein sources like fish.
Balance is Key
Savor the traditional fare, but don’t make it your entire diet. Focus on incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein into your meals. This will fuel your body for exploring Belgium’s charming towns and keeping up with your fitness tips in Belgium.
- Healthy Grocery Stores and Meal Prepping
Look for supermarkets like Colruyt or Carrefour that offer a wide range of healthy options. Planning and prepping meals in advance can save you time and money, so you have healthy choices readily available throughout the week.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Options
The vegetarian and vegan scene in Belgium is flourishing! Many restaurants offer meatless alternatives, and dedicated vegetarian/vegan restaurants are popping up in major cities.
- Finding Gluten-free and Allergen-friendly Products
Look for stores like Bio Planet or specialized gluten-free shops to find suitable alternatives. Most supermarkets have designated allergen sections as well.
Staying Active in Belgium
- Cycling Nation
Belgium boasts a deep-rooted cycling culture. From leisurely rides along picturesque canals to challenging climbs in the breathtaking Ardennes region, there’s a cycling route waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a curious beginner, you can find trails that suit your pace and skill level.
- Hiking Adventures
Lace-up your boots and get ready to discover Belgium’s diverse landscapes on foot. Hike through the rolling hills of the Condroz region, conquer the dramatic cliffs of the HautesFagnes, or uncover hidden waterfalls within the Ardennes. With a variety of trails to choose from, you can tailor your hiking experience to your desired intensity and duration.
- Walking for Wellbeing
Sometimes, the simplest activities can be the most effective. Walking is a fantastic way to stay active and enjoy the beauty of Belgium at your own pace. Explore charming towns with their historic architecture, meander through bustling city parks, or simply relish a walk along the scenic coastline.
Mental Health and Wellbeing in Belgium
Belgium demonstrates a strong commitment to mental health by allocating 6% of its total health budget to this crucial area. This guarantees that adequate resources are available for various mental health services and programs. Mental health services are seamlessly integrated within the existing public and private healthcare systems of Belgium. This means you can access mental healthcare professionals through the same channels you would use for general medical needs, making the process familiar and streamlined.
The system operates on a shared responsibility model. The federal government takes the lead in financing psychiatric hospitals and wards, while also running dedicated mental healthcare projects. Additionally, each region (Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels) has its own system for providing services. This decentralized approach allows for regional specificities to be addressed.
What Services Are Available?
The Belgian system offers a multi-pronged approach to mental healthcare, catering to various needs:
- Mental Health Centers
These centers are the backbone of the system, offering consultations with a range of professionals. You can access psychiatrists who can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication if necessary.
- Psychiatric Hospitals
For individuals requiring more intensive support due to severe mental health conditions, specialized treatment is provided in dedicated psychiatric hospitals. Additionally, some general hospitals have dedicated psychiatric wards to offer in-patient care.
- Preventative Programs
Belgium goes beyond just reactive care. Recognizing the importance of prevention, various educational programs are offered. These programs can be targeted at specific age groups, such as young people or the elderly, focusing on mental health awareness and promoting strategies for maintaining emotional well-being.
Accessing Care
- Direct Access
One of the advantages of the Belgian system is the ability to directly access a mental health professional. This means you don’t necessarily need a referral from your GP for an initial consultation. You can contact a mental health center or therapist directly to schedule an appointment.
- Consulting Your GP
While direct access is available, it can still be beneficial to consult your GP first. They can provide a preliminary assessment and offer guidance on the most suitable mental health professional or service for your specific needs. This is especially true if you’re dealing with complex mental health issues or require medication management.
Conclusion
Healthy living in Belgium is possible with the appropriate attitude to health and wellness.
Integrating these health and wellness ideas that we have highlighted in this guide into your everyday routine so you can lead the best life. From exploring gorgeous landscapes by bike to indulging in delicious local produce (with a balanced approach, of course!), Belgium offers a fantastic environment for your well-being.
So, pack your bags with enthusiasm and set out on this exciting voyage with confidence, knowing that you will live a healthy and vibrant life in this wonderful European country.
