Health & Protection in Brussels

The city of Brussels has about two million residents and is the headquarters of several international organisations, multinational companies and premiere universities. It has one of the highest standards of living in Europe, and its society is evidently multicultural. Brussels can also be quite an expensive city to live in. It’s best to make sure that you and the most important things in your life are fully covered when it comes to insurance and protection to avoid paying a huge sum of money unexpectedly in cases of emergency.

Getting Insurance

As an expat, you should know that insurance is a necessity wherever in the world you may be. You should have a life, medical, property, auto and travel insurance if necessary in addition to the coverage your employer extends.

If you’re a holder of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can access healthcare services in Brussels and other parts of Belgium for free or at lower cost in any public hospital. If you don’t have an EHIC, you’d need to get a private medical insurance. Expats using their EHIC should be aware that doctors and dentists’ fees are initially paid out-of-pocket, even in state-run hospitals and clinics, and reimbursed up to 75% of the total costs.

If you’re bringing your car to Brussels, you’re required to have it insured. Always have your car insurance policy with you. The minimum cover you’d need is a Third-Party Liability Insurance that protects against costs of damage on a third-party of their property. You can also buy a Part Comprehensive Car Insurance that includes fire damage coverage and a Fully Comprehensive plan that protects against any type of damage on your vehicle or a third-party’s property.

A property or home insurance is mandatory in Belgium. If you’re renting a place in Brussels, expect a provision in your lease contract requiring you to buy insurance within 30 days of signing. You’re responsible for any damage to the leased property and to third persons. If you’re buying a home in Brussels, your mortgage will likely have an insurance attached to it. Whether you’re renting or purchasing a property, it’s advisable to take out contents insurance for your personal belongings.

It’s also recommended that you get a life insurance, especially if you have dependents, as well as a travel insurance if you move from one place to another quite regularly. It’s also recommended that you get a life insurance, especially if you have dependents, as well as a travel insurance if you move from one place to another quite regularly.

Importance of Insurance

Peace of mind is priceless. What else can you ask for if you can sleep peacefully at night knowing that you and your family are in good hands while living in a foreign land? Insurance offers financial protection in the event of illness, injury, accidents, property damage or political turmoil abroad. For a minimal premium payment, you can fail-proof your life.

Local Insurance in Brussels

The only insurance compulsory in Brussels and other parts of the country is a car insurance that protects against third-party liability. Nevertheless, expats are strongly advised to secure life, medical, property and travel insurance protection. The most well renowned local insurance companies in the country are Ageas, Belfius, and AG Insurance. Most international insurers have representative offices in Belgium.The Brussels Regulation oversees the insurance industry in the country. You can contact the government agency or an insurance broker to know whether you’re dealing with a legitimate insurance provider.