Cars & Transportation Belgium

Belgium has a well-developed public transport system that covers all regions of the country and allows easy travel both within and between cities.

 

Rail Transport

The railway network in Belgium is one of the densest in Europe and is managed by SNCB/NMBS. Trains connect major cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, Liège, Bruges, and others, as well as provide communication with smaller towns and suburbs.

 

Moreover, Belgium runs several international routes, such as Thalys (connecting with France, the Netherlands, and Germany) and Eurostar (connecting with the United Kingdom).

 

Belgium is an important hub for high-speed rail transport in Europe. High-speed trains offer convenient and quick travel both within the country and with neighboring states.

 

- Thalys: Connects Brussels with Paris, Amsterdam, Cologne, and other major European cities. The travel time, for example, from Brussels to Paris is approximately 1 hour 22 minutes.

- Eurostar: Connects Brussels with London through the Channel Tunnel. Travel time is about 2 hours.

- ICE (InterCity Express): Connects Brussels with German cities such as Cologne and Frankfurt. The travel time to Cologne is approximately 1 hour 50 minutes.

 

These trains not only provide fast services but are also integrated with other modes of transport, making them convenient for transfers and combined routes.

High-speed trains in Belgium and on international routes reach speeds of up to 300 km/h, significantly reducing travel time compared to regular trains and cars. Trains operate with high frequency, making journeys flexible and convenient for passengers.

 

High-Speed Trains Offer a High Level of Comfort:

- Comfortable Seats: Wide and comfortable seating with ample legroom.

- Wi-Fi and Power Outlets: Free Wi-Fi and power outlets are available on most trains for charging mobile devices and laptops.

- Business Class: Some trains, such as Thalys, offer business class with additional amenities such as onboard catering, access to lounge areas at stations, and an enhanced level of service.

- Cafés and Bars: Trains usually have a restaurant car or the option to purchase drinks and snacks onboard.

 

Booking and Fares

- Online Booking: Most tickets can be purchased online, which is convenient for trip planning.

- Flexible Pricing: Various fares are available, from economy class to business class, with options for refundable or non-refundable tickets, allowing passengers to choose the best option based on their budget and needs.

 

Metro

The metro operates in the country's capital — Brussels. The Brussels Metro consists of 4 lines and covers both the city center and distant areas.

 

Tram

The tram network in Belgium is very developed and operates in several cities, including Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Charleroi. Trams provide convenient transport both within cities and on some suburban routes.

A notable feature is the Kusttram — a tram line along the North Sea coast, approximately 67 km long, connecting towns and resorts from De Panne to Knokke-Heist.

 

Buses

Bus routes cover all areas, including rural regions, and are an important complement to rail and tram services.

 

Ferries

On the Scheldt River in Antwerp, there is a ferry service that connects different parts of the city. This is a convenient and scenic way to cross the river.

 

Air Transport

Belgium, being a relatively small country, has a well-developed international air transport network, while domestic air service is much less represented due to the compact size of the country and its developed ground transport network.

 

Main Airports:

   - Brussels Airport — the largest and main international airport of the country, located in Zaventem, near the capital. It serves most international flights and is a key hub for many airlines. Brussels Airport offers flights to all major European cities, as well as to America, Asia, and Africa.

   - Brussels South Charleroi Airport — the second most important airport, mainly serving budget airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air. Charleroi specializes in flights to European countries, offering a wide selection of low-cost flights.

 - Liège Airport — is a major cargo hub and also offers a limited number of passenger flights, mainly charter and seasonal.

 - Ostend-Bruges Airport — a small international airport specializing in charter and tourist flights, especially in the summer season.

 

International Airlines:

 Belgium is served by numerous international airlines, including Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, British Airways, and many others. Brussels Airlines, the national carrier, also offers a wide selection of international destinations, including regular flights to Africa, making Brussels an important hub for African destinations.

In Belgium, several types of tickets are available depending on the mode of transport and the region:

 

- Unified tickets: Valid for use on multiple modes of transport (bus, tram, metro) within one city or region.

- Single tickets: Suitable for a one-time trip on a specific type of transport.

- Day/Week/Month passes: Allow unlimited travel within a specified period.

- Subscriptions and cards: Such as MOBIB (Brussels), Go Pass, and Rail Pass (trains), which can be used for regular trips or trips with a certain discount.

 

 

In Belgium, there are several ways to purchase public transport tickets:

 

- Ticket machines: Installed at metro stations, train stations, tram stops, and major transport hubs. The machines support several languages (French, Dutch, German, English) and accept cash, bank cards, and electronic wallets.

- Online purchase through mobile apps: Mobile apps such as STIB/MIVB (Brussels), De Lijn (Flanders), SNCB/NMBS (trains) can be used to purchase tickets. Apps allow you to choose various types of tickets, get discounts, and manage your ticket via smartphone.

- Purchase at kiosks and ticket offices: In major cities and stations, kiosks and ticket offices are available where you can purchase tickets and get advice on routes.

- Purchase from the driver: On some buses and trams, it is possible to purchase a ticket from the driver, although this is often more expensive than purchasing through a machine or online. There may also be restrictions on the types of tickets available.

 

Features and important points

 

- Mandatory validation: Regardless of the purchase method, most tickets require validation before the trip. Turnstiles are installed at metro and train stations for this purpose, while buses and trams have validators that need to be used upon boarding.

 

- Fines for fare evasion: If the ticket is not purchased or validated, the passenger faces a significant fine. Ticket inspections are carried out regularly, especially in major cities.

 

- Discounts and benefits: Specific categories of citizens, including youth, pensioners, and people with disabilities, can avail themselves of discounts on passes and tickets. Group tickets are also available for joint trips.

 

- Combined tickets: In some cases, combined tickets are available, which include a trip on multiple modes of transport (for example, train + bus). They can be convenient for those undertaking complex routes.

 

Regions and differences

 

Depending on the region (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels), the ticket purchasing system and transport cards used may differ:

 

- Brussels: The main transport card is MOBIB, which can be used on all types of public transport in the city.

- Flanders: The De Lijn system operates in the region, offering its subscriptions and cards for bus and tram trips.

- Wallonia: In this region, transport is managed by TEC, which also has its own features in terms of ticket purchase and usage.

Taxis

Taxis in Belgium offer a convenient way to travel, especially at night or when you need to get to a destination quickly.

 

- How to call a taxi: In Belgium, taxis can be found at dedicated stands near stations, airports, and city centers. You can also call a taxi via mobile apps such as Uber (available in Brussels and Antwerp) and local services like Taxis Verts (in Brussels) and Taxi Stop.

  

- Payment: Most taxis accept both cash and credit cards. Mobile payment systems like Payconiq are also available.

 

Car Sharing

Car sharing in Belgium is gaining popularity due to its convenience and flexibility, especially among those who do not need a car on a permanent basis.

 

- Main services: In Belgium, several car sharing services are available, such as Cambio, Poppy, and DriveNow. These services allow you to rent a car for a short period, from a few minutes to a few hours, and pay only for the actual time of usage.

 

- How it works: After registering with a service via a mobile app, a user can book a car in the desired location, unlock it using the app, and start their trip. Once the trip is completed, the car can be left at any authorized parking spot within the service area.

 

- Rates: Payment usually consists of an hourly fee and a kilometer rate. Some services offer fixed packages for several hours or days. Fuel, parking, and insurance are generally included in the price.

 

- Electric cars: In recent years, the popularity of car sharing with electric cars has been growing, making transportation not only convenient but also environmentally friendly.

 

Scooter and Bicycle Rental

Scooter and bicycle rental is another popular way to get around in Belgian cities, especially considering the heavy traffic and the desire for eco-friendly transport.

 

- Scooters: In major cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Liège, several electric scooter rental services operate, including Lime, Dott, and Bird. These scooters can be found on city streets, rented through a mobile app, and used for short trips. Rental costs usually include a fixed price for unlocking the scooter and an hourly rate.

 

- Bicycles: Belgium has a well-developed infrastructure for cyclists, making this mode of transport convenient and safe. In Brussels, for example, the Villo! system offers city bike rentals for short trips. Antwerp has a similar service called Velo. These services allow you to rent a bike at one station and return it to any other. In Brussels, Antwerp, and other cities, extensive networks of bike paths and numerous bike parking spots are created, making this mode of transport safe and convenient.

 

- Payment and registration: To use the service, registration in a mobile app is usually required. Payment is made through the app using a credit card. Many services offer subscriptions for a day, month, or year, making the use of transport even more advantageous.

 

Usage Features

- Parking: For all types of car sharing, scooters, and bicycles, it is important to follow parking rules. It is important to leave vehicles in authorized places to avoid causing inconvenience to other road users.

Belgium, with its developed transport infrastructure and compact size, offers many alternatives to a personal car, making life without a car not only possible but also convenient.

While public transport in rural and remote areas of Belgium may be less developed, even here living without a car is possible. Using a bicycle, car sharing, or ride-sharing can be an effective alternative. However, in such areas, having a car may be convenient, especially for families with children or people with special needs.

Obtaining a local driver's license in Belgium may require a different approach depending on whether you have a driver's license from another country or plan to obtain it from scratch.

 

Exchange of foreign driver's license

If you have a valid driver's license issued in another country, it can be exchanged for a Belgian one under certain conditions:

 

- EU/EEA citizens: If your license was issued in one of the European Union or European Economic Area countries, it can be exchanged for a Belgian license without the need for exams. However, this exchange is not mandatory, and you can continue to use your license until it expires.

  

- Citizens of countries outside the EU/EEA: If you are coming from a country that is not part of the EU or EEA and your country has an agreement with Belgium on mutual recognition of driver's licenses (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, etc.), you can exchange your license for a Belgian one. Otherwise, you will need to pass theoretical and practical exams to obtain a Belgian license.

 

- Exchange process: To exchange, you need to contact the local municipality with an application, provide the original driver's license, its translation (if required), as well as a passport and proof of registration in Belgium. The process may take several weeks.

 

Obtaining a driver's license from scratch

If you do not have a driver's license, you will need to undergo training and pass exams:

 

- Theoretical exam: The first step is to pass the theoretical exam. It is available in French, Dutch, and German and is conducted at specialized centers. The exam includes questions on traffic rules, signs, and safe driving. For preparation, you can use study guides or attend courses at a driving school.

 

- Learner driving: After successfully passing the theoretical exam, you will be issued a learner's permit, which allows you to practice driving under the supervision of an instructor or accompanying driver (who must have at least 8 years of driving experience). The training period usually lasts at least 3 months.

 

- Practical exam: After completing training, you must pass the practical exam, which assesses your driving skills in real road conditions. The exam includes checks on maneuvering, city driving, and parking. If passed successfully, you will receive a temporary driver's license, allowing you to drive independently.

 

- Obtaining a permanent license: After a certain period (usually 6 months), you can exchange the temporary license for a permanent one.

 

Important nuances

 

- Age restrictions: The minimum age for obtaining a category B (passenger cars) driver's license in Belgium is 18 years.

  

- Medical certificate: In some cases (e.g., for certain categories of vehicles), a medical certificate of fitness to drive may be required.

 

- Language courses: If you do not speak one of Belgium's official languages, it is recommended to take language courses or use the services of a translator during exams.

 

- License replacement: If your driver's license is lost or stolen, it can be replaced by contacting the local municipality. You will need an application, proof of identity, and a registration document.

Buying a car

 

- New and used cars: In Belgium, there is a wide range of both new and used cars available. Buying a new car is done through official dealerships, while used cars can be purchased through private advertisements or specialized car dealerships. Popular platforms for searching used cars include Autoscout24 and Vroom.be.

 

- Documents and registration: After purchasing a car, it must be registered. 

 

Car insurance

 

- Mandatory insurance: In Belgium, all cars must be insured at least under the mandatory civil liability insurance program. This insurance covers damage to third parties in the event of an accident that is your fault. Without a valid insurance policy, car registration is impossible.

 

- Additional types of insurance: In addition to mandatory insurance, additional types can be arranged, such as comprehensive coverage, which covers damage to your car in case of an accident, theft, or natural disasters.

 

Taxes and fees

 

- Car registration tax: This is a one-time tax levied during the first registration of a car in Belgium. Its size depends on the type of car, its power, and CO2 emissions.

 

- Annual road tax: This tax is paid annually and depends on the power of the car and the level of emissions. The more powerful and less eco-friendly the car, the higher the tax.

 

- Environmental taxes: In some regions, such as Brussels, car owners with high CO2 emissions may be subject to an additional environmental tax.

 

Traffic features

 

- Right-hand traffic: Belgium uses right-hand traffic, like most European countries. Traffic signs and markings conform to European standards.

 

- Speed limits: General speed limits are as follows:

  - In populated areas — 50 km/h.

  - Outside populated areas — 90 km/h.

  - On highways — 120 km/h.

  - In 30 zones (near schools and residential areas) — 30 km/h.

 

- Alcohol while driving: The permissible blood alcohol level is 0.5 per mille.

 

- Parking: In cities, especially in Brussels, parking can be restricted and paid. Parking in central areas often requires the use of parking discs or payment through parking meters. Parking on sidewalks is prohibited, except in specially designated areas.

 

Low Emission Zones (LEZ)

 

- Low Emission Zones (LEZ): In major cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent, low emission zones (LEZ) are in place, where entry is restricted for old and environmentally harmful vehicles. To enter such zones, your vehicle must meet certain environmental standards, otherwise, you face significant fines.

 

- LEZ registration: If your vehicle is registered outside of Belgium, you must register it in the appropriate system before entering an LEZ. This can be done online.

 

Technical inspection

 

- Mandatory technical inspection: Cars in Belgium are subject to regular technical inspections, starting from the fourth year of use for new cars.

 

Operating costs

 

- Fuel: The cost of fuel in Belgium is higher than the European average. Drivers have access to both gasoline and diesel. Additionally, there is a well-developed infrastructure for electric vehicles, including charging stations in cities and on highways.

 

- Technical maintenance: Regular technical maintenance of the vehicle is recommended to be carried out at certified service centers.

 

 

Parking issues 

 

Parking is a significant issue in major cities in Belgium, especially in metropolises such as Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Liège.

 

Parking zones: Different parking zones with various rules are introduced in cities. Most central districts have paid parking regulated by parking time limits. Residents are provided with special parking permits; however, the number of such permits may be limited, creating additional challenges for locals.

 

Parking fines: Violations of parking rules, such as exceeding the parking time limit, parking in forbidden zones, or in disabled spaces, can lead to significant fines. In Brussels and Antwerp, parking inspectors are actively working, making the risk of getting a fine high.

 

Parking discs: In some zones, parking is time-restricted and requires the use of parking discs. The driver is required to set the disc indicating the arrival time, and exceeding the set time can lead to a fine.

 

Mobile applications: Mobile apps for parking payment such as Pango, 4411, and ParkMobile are actively used in cities.

 

Parking garages: Most major cities have underground and multi-level parking garages that offer safe and long-term parking. However, the cost of using such garages can be significant, especially in central areas.

 

- Parking on city outskirts: Many cities offer a Park & Ride (P+R) system, where drivers can leave their cars on the outskirts and take public transport to the center. This solution helps to reduce the load on central areas and alleviate parking problems.

Belgium has strict traffic rules, and significant fines and penalties are provided for their violation.

 

Speeding

Speeding is one of the most common violations in Belgium, and the penalty for it depends on how much the set limit was exceeded:

 

- Exceeding the speed limit by up to 10 km/h in urban areas and up to 20 km/h outside urban areas: The fine is between 50 to 150 euros.

- Exceeding the limit by 11-30 km/h in urban areas and by 21-40 km/h outside urban areas: The fine increases to 150-300 euros.

- Exceeding the limit by more than 30 km/h in urban areas or by 40 km/h outside urban areas: This violation can lead to a court summons, where a fine of up to 4,000 euros and temporary revocation of driving license may be imposed.

 

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Driving under the influence of alcohol is considered a serious offense in Belgium:

 

- The permissible blood alcohol level is 0.5 per mille. If the blood alcohol level is between 0.5 and 0.8 per mille, the fine can be from 200 to 2,000 euros.

- With a blood alcohol level of 0.8 to 1.5 per mille: The offender can be fined from 1,200 to 6,000 euros and face a driving ban from 3 months to 5 years.

- Exceeding 1.5 per mille: This may lead to immediate confiscation of the driving license and a fine of up to 12,000 euros, as well as possible imprisonment.

 

Driving under the influence of drugs is also subject to severe fines and driving bans.

 

Parking violations

Violations of parking rules, especially in city center areas, can lead to the following fines:

 

- Parking in a restricted area: Fines range from 50 to 150 euros.

- Parking in disabled spaces without proper permission: This offense is punishable by a fine of up to 250 euros.

- Exceeding paid parking time: The fine can be up to 25-50 euros depending on the zone.

 

Running a red light and ignoring signs

Running a red light or ignoring traffic signs is a serious offense, subject to significant fines:

 

- Running a red light: The fine is from 150 to 300 euros, and in some cases, the driving license may be revoked.

- Violating right of way (e.g., not stopping at a 'Stop' sign): Fines can reach 150 euros, and a court summons is possible if there is a threat to road safety.

 

Using a mobile phone while driving

Using a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free system is an offense:

 

- The fine for using a phone is 116 euros. For repeat offenses, the fine may increase, and the driving license may be temporarily confiscated.

 

Failure to maintain a safe distance

The driver must maintain a safe distance between vehicles to avoid accident situations:

 

- Failure to maintain a safe distance can lead to a fine from 100 to 300 euros depending on the situation and degree of risk.

 

Exceeding the limit of penalty points (penalty point system)

Belgium operates a penalty point system for drivers. Points are assigned for each violation, and upon reaching a certain threshold, the driver may lose their license. The number of points depends on the severity of the violation:

 

- 3 points for a minor violation (e.g., slight speeding).

- 6 points for a serious violation (e.g., driving under the influence of alcohol).

 

Upon accumulating 12 points, driving rights may be revoked for a certain period.

 

Additional penalties

Depending on the severity of the violation, additional penalties may be applied:

 

- Revocation of driving license: The court may revoke the driver's license for a few months to several years.

- Imprisonment: In extreme cases, such as repeated serious offenses or accidents with serious consequences, imprisonment for several years is possible.

- Confiscation of the vehicle: In cases of serious violations, the vehicle may be seized.

 

 

Penalties for foreign drivers

In Belgium, traffic rules are equally stringent for both local residents and foreign drivers. If a foreign driver violates traffic rules in Belgium, they are subject to the same penalties as Belgian drivers, but there are some nuances related to the international status of the offender.

 

On-the-spot fines

- Immediate payment of the fine: If a foreign driver violates traffic rules and the violation is recorded on-site by the police, they may be required to pay the fine immediately. This is because a foreign driver may leave the country without paying the fine later. In case of refusal to pay the fine on the spot, police officers have the right to detain the vehicle until payment is made.

- Simplified procedures: For some offenses, especially minor ones, the police may offer the option to pay a fine on the spot with the possibility to avoid court proceedings. 

 

Notification of fines

- Postal notification: If the offense is recorded by automatic cameras or police officers but the driver is not stopped on the spot, a fine notification may be sent by mail to the offender's home address. Belgium has agreements with a number of European countries that allow such fines to be sent beyond its borders.

- International cooperation: Within the EU, there is a system for exchanging violation data, which allows Belgian authorities to pass on information about fines to other EU countries. This means that a foreign driver may receive a fine notification for an offense committed in Belgium upon returning to their home country.

 

Revocation of driving licenses

- Revocation in Belgium: If the offense is serious, such as driving under the influence or significant speeding, the court may render a decision for temporary revocation of the driving license. This decision is applicable only within Belgium. In such a case, the driver will not be able to legally drive in Belgium for a certain period.

- On-the-spot confiscation: In particularly serious cases (e.g., alcohol level above the legal limit or causing an accident situation), the police may confiscate the driver's license on the spot pending a court decision.

 

Vehicle confiscation

- Confiscation: In cases of repeated serious violations or if the driver refuses to pay fines, the vehicle may be confiscated. In such cases, the car may be held until all legal and financial issues are fully resolved.

 

Appeals and legal proceedings

- Appeal: Like local drivers, foreigners have the right to challenge imposed fines or other penalties in court. However, they will need to engage with the Belgian legal system, which may require additional efforts, including hiring a lawyer.

 

Impact on driving licenses in the country of residence

- Transfer of penalties: In some cases, information about the violation may be transmitted to the driver's country of residence. This could result in the penalty imposed in Belgium (e.g., license revocation) being considered during the renewal or update of driving licenses in another country.

- Consequences in the EU: Within the European Union, there is a principle of mutual recognition of judicial and administrative decisions. This means that if a driver has been revoked in Belgium, it may affect their ability to drive in other EU countries.

Vehicle registration

Vehicle registration is a mandatory step for all car owners in Belgium. This process involves several stages:

 

- Purchasing a car: After purchasing a car, whether new or used, it must be registered in your name. The registration process is handled through the Federal Mobility and Transport Service.

 

- Required documents: To register a car, the following documents must be provided:

  - Passport or identity card.

  - Proof of address (e.g., utility bills).

  - Invoice or sales contract for the car.

  - Insurance policy (mandatory civil liability insurance).

 

- Registration process: Registration can be done online through the DIV (Direction pour l’Immatriculation des Véhicules) portal or at a local post office offering registration services. Once all documents are submitted and the registration fee is paid, you will be issued a license plate and a registration certificate confirming that the vehicle is registered in your name.

 

- Transit plates: If the car was purchased abroad and you plan to bring it to Belgium, you will need transit plates, which can be obtained from the Federal Mobility and Transport Service. These plates are valid for up to 30 days until full registration is completed.

 

Vehicle inspection

Regular inspection is mandatory for all vehicles in operation on Belgian roads. 

 

- First Technical Inspection: New cars are exempt from mandatory inspection for the first four years. After this period, the first inspection must be conducted. Used cars must undergo inspection before registration if the car is over four years old.

 

- Regular Inspection: After the first inspection, cars are subject to annual checks. If the inspection is successfully passed, the owner is issued a sticker for the license plate and an updated technical passport with a mark indicating the inspection has been passed.

 

- Inspection Failure: If a car fails the inspection, the owner receives a list of defects that need to be rectified. Once these are fixed, the car must undergo a reinspection within a specified time frame.

 

- Pre-Sale Inspection: If you plan to sell a used car, it must undergo inspection before the sale. The buyer is provided with an inspection certificate confirming that the car is in good working condition.

 

Cost and Payment

- Registration Cost: The registration fee depends on the type of vehicle, its power, and CO2 emission level. For passenger cars, the amount can range from 30 to 500 euros.

- Inspection Cost: The cost of inspection varies depending on the type of car and region but averages around 50-60 euros. An additional fee may be charged for reinspection.

- Fines for Late Inspection: Delayed inspection can lead to fines and a ban on using the car until the inspection is completed.

Using Foreign Cars

 

- Short-Term Stay: If you are temporarily in Belgium (for vacation, work, or study), you can use a car with foreign plates without having to register it in the country. However, the car must be insured according to Belgian standards, and you need to carry the vehicle documents, including the insurance policy, technical passport, and driver's license.

 

- Long-Term Stay (more than 6 months): If you plan to stay in Belgium for more than 6 months, you will need to register your car in the country. This rule applies to both EU residents and non-EU citizens. After six months, a car with foreign plates is considered illegal if not registered in Belgium.

 

Process for Registering a Foreign Car

Registering a foreign car in Belgium involves several steps:

 

- Document Preparation: You need to provide the following documents:

  - Passport or ID card.

  - Proof of residence in Belgium.

  - Original vehicle registration certificate (from the country where the car was registered).

  - Sales contract (if you bought the car abroad).

  - Technical inspection certificate (if the car is older than four years).

  - Insurance policy valid in Belgium.

  - Customs declaration (if the car was imported from a non-EU country).

 

- Technical Inspection: Cars older than four years must undergo a mandatory technical inspection before registration. This inspection includes safety and exhaust emission checks.

 

- Customs Formalities (for non-EU cars): If the car was imported from a non-EU country, you will need to pay customs duties and VAT. A customs declaration must be submitted to the local customs office.

 

- Registration with DIV: To register the car, you need to contact the Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport, where you will be issued a license plate and registration certificate. This process can be done online or through local post offices.

 

Customs Duties and Taxes

 

- Car Import Taxes: If you import a car from a non-EU country, you may need to pay customs duties and VAT. 

 

- Avoiding Double Taxation: If moving to Belgium for permanent residence and bringing your car, you may be eligible for an exemption from VAT and customs duties, given certain conditions are met, such as proof of car ownership for a specified period before moving.

 

Car Insurance

 

All cars registered in Belgium must be insured under a mandatory civil liability insurance program. This insurance covers damage caused to third parties in the event of a traffic accident. Foreign insurance policies may not cover all risks in Belgium, so it is important to either adapt your policy to Belgian standards or purchase a new policy from a local insurance provider.

 

Temporary Registration and Transit Plates

 

If your car was purchased abroad but has not yet been registered in Belgium, you may need transit plates that allow the car to be legally used on the country's roads for a limited period (usually up to 30 days) while the full registration process is completed.

 

Low Emission Zones (LEZ)

 

- Low Emission Zones: In major cities such as Brussels and Antwerp, low emission zones (LEZ) are in place where entry is restricted for vehicles with high CO2 emissions. If your car is registered outside Belgium, you need to register it in the LEZ system before entering these zones. Otherwise, you may face significant fines.

Belgium is actively developing infrastructure for electric vehicles, aiming to support environmental initiatives and the transition to sustainable modes of transport.

Charging Stations 

- Charging Station Network: Belgium has an extensive network of charging stations covering both major cities and more remote regions. As of 2024, there are over 13,000 public charging points in the country, and this number continues to grow. Charging stations are located in supermarket car parks, shopping centers, at office buildings, petrol stations, and along highways.

Types of Charging Stations:

  - Slow Charging Stations (AC): These stations offer charging power from 3.7 to 22 kW, allowing an electric vehicle to be charged in 4-8 hours. They are widely distributed in cities and residential areas.

  - Fast Charging Stations (DC): The power of fast-charging stations can reach 50-150 kW, allowing a car to charge up to 80% in 30-40 minutes. These stations are most often installed on highways and at major transport hubs.

  - Ultra-Fast Charging Stations: The power of these stations reaches 350 kW, allowing a car to charge in just 15-20 minutes. These stations are gradually appearing along major European corridors, connecting Belgium with neighboring countries.

Access to Charging Stations: Charging stations can be public or private (such as on company or residential complex premises). Access to most public stations is provided through mobile apps or RFID cards offered by operators like Blue Corner, Allego, EVBox, Shell Recharge, and others. Some stations support payment via bank cards or smartphone apps.

Service Centers for Electric Vehicles

- Network of Service Centers: With the growing popularity of electric vehicles, the number of specialized service centers is also increasing. In major cities like Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Liège, there are service centers that provide maintenance and repair for electric vehicles. Many official dealers of brands that manufacture electric vehicles (Tesla, Nissan, BMW, Volkswagen, and others) have their own certified centers.

- Specialized Workshops: In addition to official dealers, the number of independent workshops specializing in the repair and maintenance of electric vehicles is growing in Belgium. These workshops often offer competitive prices and can service vehicles of different brands.