- The best travel insurance plans for Belgium
- Is it currently safe to travel in Belgium?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Belgium?
- Why You Need Travel Insurance for Belgium
- What travel insurance for Belgium should cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Belgium
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Belgium
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Belgium?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Belgium: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Belgium covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen events.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for US citizens, but it is highly recommended for medical emergencies.
3. Healthcare cost: Belgian healthcare is excellent but expensive; a hospital night can cost over $1,000 for visitors.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for Belgium typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: Your U.S. health insurance, including Medicare, likely won't cover you in Belgium.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Belgium.
The best travel insurance plans for Belgium
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | This plan is recommended for U.S. travelers to Belgium. - high coverage limits - flexible terms - repatriation included |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Good for short or business trips to Belgium. - 24/7 helpline - cancellation cover - simple conditions |
| Tourist Card | $545k | Solid value for tourism with clear protection. - reliable medical cover - emergency support - competitive price |
| Travel Pass Monde | $765k | Balanced contract with wide scope for travel. - repatriation - hospital care - strong territorial cover |
| Globe Partner | $327k | Basic, dependable choice for Belgium. - emergency care - repatriation - civil liability included |
| Globe Traveller | $545k | Budget-friendly for short stays. - solid core protection - fast reimbursements - capped limits |
- high coverage limits
- flexible terms
- repatriation included
- 24/7 helpline
- cancellation cover
- simple conditions
- reliable medical cover
- emergency support
- competitive price
- repatriation
- hospital care
- strong territorial cover
- emergency care
- repatriation
- civil liability included
- solid core protection
- fast reimbursements
- capped limits
Is it currently safe to travel in Belgium?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution when visiting Belgium due to ongoing terrorism-related risks and common urban crime.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: attacks are possible in crowded public places or transit hubs such as Brussels Airport and main railway stations, with past incidents involving tourist areas and holiday markets. Travelers are advised to stay alert, especially during large public events.
- Health risks: no specific vaccinations are required for Belgium, but access to medical care can be expensive for foreigners, and US health plans are not recognized. Hospitals like UZ Brussel or Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc offer high standards but may require upfront payment.
- Legal requirements: visitors must present a valid US passport with at least three months remaining beyond their intended departure. The 12-page emergency passport is not accepted for visa-free entry at Belgian borders, and proof of funds and return tickets may be requested at arrival.
- Urban precautions: pickpocketing and bag theft are frequent on public transport and in central Brussels, especially near Grand-Place and Gare du Midi. It is important to keep personal belongings secure at all times.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Belgium.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Belgium?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for travelers from the United States to enter Belgium for short stays under 90 days.
While insurance is not legally required, it is strongly recommended because U.S. public health coverage does not apply in Belgium. Medical care can be expensive, and having travel insurance ensures access to the best treatment and support in an emergency.
According to our data, 50% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Belgium. Belgium is a safe and well-equipped country, but high medical costs make insurance a wise precaution.
Why You Need Travel Insurance for Belgium
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Belgium.
In Belgium, foreign travelers are often directed to private clinics and hospitals, such as Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc in Brussels or University Hospital Antwerp, where care is excellent but can be expensive. U.S. travelers cannot use Medicare or Medicaid, and routine visits or hospital stays must be paid for out-of-pocket if uninsured.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to the United States in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Belgium.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | €2,400 (about $2,550) | up to 100% reimbursement |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | €950 (about $1,000) | up to 100% reimbursement |
| I need to be repatriated | €30,000 (about $32,000) | up to 100% reimbursement |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | €4,000 (about $4,300) | up to 100% reimbursement |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What travel insurance for Belgium should cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospitalization, consultations, and emergency care in Belgium if you fall ill or are injured. We recommend a limit of at least $100,000. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation & repatriation | Pays for transportation to the United States or to a better-equipped facility if medically necessary. At least $150,000 recommended. |
| 💼 Baggage insurance | Reimburses lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal belongings when traveling. At least $1,500 coverage is advisable. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation/interruption | Reimburses prepaid, non-refundable expenses if your trip is canceled or cut short for covered reasons. $3,000 minimum recommended. |
| 🚗 Personal liability | Covers accidental injury or property damage caused to others. Minimum limit of $50,000 is prudent for travel in Belgium. |
| 🦷 Dental emergency | Covers urgent dental care following an accident or acute pain. We recommend at least $1,000 in dental cover. |
| 🕵️♂️ Legal assistance | Provides support if you face legal issues or disputes as a traveler. Having $10,000 legal coverage is recommended. |
| 📱 24/7 assistance hotline | Gives you access to medical, legal, and travel advice at any time. Ensure your policy offers this service with multilingual support. |
We recommend a limit of at least $100,000.
At least $150,000 recommended.
At least $1,500 coverage is advisable.
$3,000 minimum recommended.
Minimum limit of $50,000 is prudent for travel in Belgium.
We recommend at least $1,000 in dental cover.
Having $10,000 legal coverage is recommended.
Ensure your policy offers this service with multilingual support.
Travel insurance from banks or local providers often comes with low maximum limits and many exclusions, leaving important risks uncovered. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with broad coverage.
Compare the best plans on HelloSafe and subscribe online to receive immediate proof of insurance.
The cost of travel insurance for Belgium
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $32 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $49 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $67 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $110 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your policy is determined by several key factors: your age, your destination, the duration of your trip, your desired coverage level, and any optional add-ons like trip cancellation. It's important to consider these elements to find the right coverage for your trip without overpaying for your insurance.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Belgium
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Belgium while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧳 Type and duration of trip | Short trips and single destinations usually face fewer risks, so premiums can be lower. | Opt for single-trip coverage if not traveling often, and select the exact number of days needed. |
| 👤 Traveller's age | Older travelers often pay higher premiums, especially for extended trips or high coverage limits. | Compare insurers: for example, Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 💸 Deductible amount | A higher deductible can significantly lower the price, but means more out-of-pocket if you claim. | Choose the highest deductible you can afford to reduce your premium, but check what you’re willing to pay upfront. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Standard medical care in Belgium is high quality, and emergencies are rare for most visitors. | Focus on emergency medical and repatriation coverage, limiting extras like baggage if not essential to save costs. |
| 🎒 Activities planned | Certain activities (skiing, cycling, festivals) carry extra risk and may require additional cover. | If not participating in risky activities, exclude adventure sports coverage for a lower price. |
| 👩👦 Number of travelers | Family or group policies can offer discounts compared to buying policies individually. | Check if a family or group policy is available—it is usually cheaper per person. |
| 💳 Payment method and options | Some credit cards may include limited travel protection, but it is not always sufficient abroad. | Review your credit card benefits before purchase, but do not rely solely on them for your main coverage. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Belgium?
It is completely legitimate to wonder if your current coverage—such as credit card insurance or health insurance—can protect you when traveling to Belgium. Unfortunately, these options are often limited or insufficient. U.S. public health coverage is not valid abroad, and private or card insurance only covers certain risks and low amounts.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Belgium? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No medical costs, no hospitalization, no repatriation outside the US | Travel insurance covers up to $100,000+ plus medical evacuation and repatriation |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, Cigna) | Yes, partly | Some emergency costs, possible reimbursement up to $10,000–$20,000, rare repatriation | Travel insurance provides $100,000–$500,000 for medical care and includes 24/7 assistance |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Citi Double Cash, Capital One Platinum) | Yes, partly | Emergency costs up to $2,500–$5,000, no trip cancellation, limited baggage | Travel insurance includes up to $100,000 in medical care, baggage, and trip cancellation |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X) | Yes, partly | Medical care up to $15,000–$50,000, some baggage delay and trip delay | Travel insurance covers up to $500,000 and provides crisis support, full travel interruption, and evacuation |
Example
During a cycling trip in the Ardennes, Sarah had a severe fall, resulting in a complex leg fracture. The total hospital bill in Liège was $22,000. Her Visa Signature card's insurance had a low limit, covering only $1,500. Her US health plan deemed it out-of-network, leaving her to pay $17,500.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to the trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Belgium?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within Belgium for tourism or business purposes. You must have a valid U.S. passport with at least three months of validity beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen area. Always check for updated requirements before you travel.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Belgium?
Start by comparing several travel insurance options, ideally using a dedicated tool like the HelloSafe comparison platform. Review what each plan covers and its exclusions, making sure it fits your needs for Belgium. Then, purchase the policy online and once complete, you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
What medical services are available to travelers in Belgium?
Belgium offers high-quality medical facilities, especially in major cities. Emergency services are easily accessible, and English is widely spoken by medical staff. However, healthcare can be costly for travelers without insurance coverage, so out-of-pocket expenses may be significant without travel insurance.
Does travel insurance for Belgium cover terrorism or civil unrest?
Most travel insurance plans include emergency assistance for unexpected events such as terrorism or civil unrest. Check your policy’s terms to see what is covered, including emergency evacuation, trip interruption, and medical care due to such events. Always review limits and exclusions carefully.
What should I do if I lose my belongings or passport in Belgium?
If your belongings or passport are lost or stolen, report the incident to local police and request an official report. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for passport replacement help. If you have travel insurance, notify your provider promptly to start your claim and receive assistance.
Are there any special health or vaccination requirements for Belgium?
There are currently no mandatory vaccinations for travelers from the United States to Belgium. Ensure routine immunizations are up to date. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical care, emergency transportation, and repatriation to avoid costly medical bills during your stay.
Do I need a visa to travel to Belgium?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within Belgium for tourism or business purposes. You must have a valid U.S. passport with at least three months of validity beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen area. Always check for updated requirements before you travel.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Belgium?
Start by comparing several travel insurance options, ideally using a dedicated tool like the HelloSafe comparison platform. Review what each plan covers and its exclusions, making sure it fits your needs for Belgium. Then, purchase the policy online and once complete, you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
What medical services are available to travelers in Belgium?
Belgium offers high-quality medical facilities, especially in major cities. Emergency services are easily accessible, and English is widely spoken by medical staff. However, healthcare can be costly for travelers without insurance coverage, so out-of-pocket expenses may be significant without travel insurance.
Does travel insurance for Belgium cover terrorism or civil unrest?
Most travel insurance plans include emergency assistance for unexpected events such as terrorism or civil unrest. Check your policy’s terms to see what is covered, including emergency evacuation, trip interruption, and medical care due to such events. Always review limits and exclusions carefully.
What should I do if I lose my belongings or passport in Belgium?
If your belongings or passport are lost or stolen, report the incident to local police and request an official report. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for passport replacement help. If you have travel insurance, notify your provider promptly to start your claim and receive assistance.
Are there any special health or vaccination requirements for Belgium?
There are currently no mandatory vaccinations for travelers from the United States to Belgium. Ensure routine immunizations are up to date. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical care, emergency transportation, and repatriation to avoid costly medical bills during your stay.
On the same topic
