Health insurance
In Belgium, it is compulsory to take out health insurance. If you are ill, the health insurance fund pays a large part of the medical costs. If you are unable to work due to illness or an accident, you will receive financial compensation to replace your wage.
If you are recognised as a refugee, you must join a recognised health insurance fund of your choice. If you do not want to become a member of a health insurance fund, you can join the 'Auxiliary fund for sickness and invalidity insurance' free of charge.
What does a health insurance fund do for you?
A health insurance fund (or 'mutuality')
- pays the costs for medical care
- pays a financial benefit if you are unfit for work as a result of illness or an accident
- pays a financial benefit during your maternity leave (after childbirth)
- organises home care services (assistance for children and the elderly)
- lends medical equipment for the care of sick people at home.
How much does health insurance cost?
If you join, you will have to pay a fixed annual contribution (between 80 and 110 euros). For children or other dependants, health insurance is free.
What health insurance funds are there?
Christian health fund, Liberal health fund, Socialist health fund, Independent health fund, Neutral health fund. On the website of the RIZIV/INAMI, you can find an overview of all health insurance funds.