Travel to Belgium to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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Intro

Backpacking or traveling in Belgium?

  • Alee! You want to travel to Belgium, the country of beer, chocolate and a far too complicated state structure that makes even the smartest politician dizzy. However, the country has much more to offer than these culinary highlights, such as beautiful walks, beautiful old cities and friendly people (in the pub at least).
  • Spotting activities: shop in Antwerp; walk, cycle or climb in the Ardennes; visit the picturesque Dinant; climb the Sint Rumboutstoren in Mechelen; relax in the thermal baths of Spa; visit the Atomium in Brussels and visit the beautiful Bruges.
  • Spotting animals: wild boars, foxes, beavers, Flemish Giants, storks.
  • Spotting food: Flemish fries of course, chocolate, waffles, mussels, stew, shrimp croquettes, speculoos, orval cheese, cuberdons.

Studying in Belgium?

  • Belgium is known for its top universities and excellent chocolate shops. If you are having a hard time studying, you can at least fight your sadness with chocolate. There are many possibilities, but popular study programs are law, economics and Burgundian enjoyment. And student life is very pleasant if you like pubs.
  • Study cities: Leuven, Ghent, Brussels, Antwerp.
  • Language: Dutch, French and German.

Internships in Belgium?

  • There are all kinds of internships possible in Belgium. Interesting possibilities can be with EU institutions, multinationals, the cultural sector, NGOs or in technology.

Volunteering in Belgium?

  • If you want to do volunteer work in Belgium, you can mainly rely on part-time volunteer work. However, private individuals sometimes offer room and board via volunteer websites for some help.

Working in Belgium?

  • There is a lot of work to be found in Belgium, but for temporary work you can think of the catering industry and tourism in the winter and summer seasons. Work at a campsite, in a hotel, guide tours and activities or try to get a much-coveted spot with a festival crew. Working as a digital nomad in Belgium?
  • Belgium is a comfortable country for digital nomads - not only because of the good internet and the many facilities, but also because of the delicious food and lots of beer (if you like it). It is also quite affordable compared to neighboring countries.
  • Favorite locations: Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, Leuven.

Living in Belgium?

  • Living in Belgium means enjoying the best fries, chocolate and beer, combined with a rich culture, many outdoor activities and history.
  • Why, why not? Well, the reason is already mentioned above and on top of that it is also well connected to the rest of Europe. So you can easily go somewhere else if you are tired of Belgium. However, it can be rainy, in the cities you sometimes have to be careful in certain neighborhoods and the complex government structure can be confusing.
  • Education: Belgium has excellent schools.
  • Expat community: There is a large and diverse expat community, especially in Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent.
  • Safety: Quite safe (if you can resist your appetite). Health insurance: healthcare is excellent, but make sure you have good health insurance.

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Preparation & Packing

Packing list for Belgium, insurance for Belgium and packing your belongings

Packing list for Belgium, insurance for Belgium and packing your belongings

What to take to Belgium: brief

To pack and check
  • Documents and money: a valid identity card or passport is sufficient for travelers from the EU, but for most other nationalities, a visa might be required. Belgium uses the euro, and you can pay by debit card or contactless payment almost everywhere. A small amount of cash can be handy for markets, chip shops, or a local café.
  • Clothing: layers! Belgium is known for changeable weather, with sun, rain, and wind all on the same day. A good raincoat or folding umbrella is almost always a good idea, regardless of the season. Furthermore, clothing depends on the season you are going in.
  • Shoes: comfortable sneakers are ideal for cities like Bruges, Ghent, and Brussels, where you will be walking on cobblestones a lot. When you are visiting the Ardennes, bring comfortable hiking boots with good grip.
  • Personal care and hygiene: sunscreen.
  • Packing and protection: a rain cover for your backpack and possibly a dry bag if you intend to do a lot of hiking or cycling.
  • Insects and animals: mosquito repellent when camping near rivers or lakes during the summer months. Medicines and travel first aid kit: a small first aid kit with plasters, painkillers, and blister plasters is usually sufficient.
  • Outdoors and practicalities: a reusable water bottle, sunglasses, and a reusable bag. Plastic bags are prohibited in shops.
  • Technology and equipment: a travel adapter for type C and E sockets.
To consider
  • Rain trousers for hikes in the Ardennes.
  • Cycling gloves if you plan to explore the many cycling routes.
  • Swimwear for the Belgian coast or wellness centers.
  • An insulated mug for hot chocolate or coffee during winter city walks.
  • A little space in your suitcase for Belgian chocolate, beer glasses, and speculaas.

Are there mosquitoes in Belgium?

  • Yes, everywhere during the warmer months, with larger populations near stagnant water, rivers, and forest areas.
  • They are mostly just annoying, but not dangerous.
  • More about protection against mosquitoes and insects.

Are there sandflies in Belgium?

Can you buy DEET, or other mosquito repellents, in Belgium?

  • Yes, DEET, picaridine, and other mosquito repellents are available everywhere at pharmacies, outdoor stores, drugstores, and supermarkets.
  • For example, visit a Kruidvat, Medi-Market, A.S. Adventure, Delhaize, or Carrefour, and you will have a huge selection.
  • See also DEET mosquito repellents and the percentages.

Can you buy a joint or weed in Belgium, or bring it into Belgium?

  • Cannabis is illegal in Belgium. There are no official points of sale, and the sale, cultivation, and import of weed, hash, space cake, and CBD products containing THC are punishable offenses.
  • Possession of small quantities for personal use is sometimes tolerated, sometimes resulting in a simple police report, but it officially remains an offense. Taking cannabis across the border is not permitted, not even from the Netherlands.

Health, Insurance & Safety

How does healthcare work in Belgium, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Belgium, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

What is the quality of healthcare in Belgium?

  • Belgium is known as a country with one of the best healthcare systems in the world, despite being expensive and quite complex.
  • Healthcare in Belgium is of very high quality and is financed by public or private health insurance funds for Belgians.
  • Everyone who lives or works in Belgium must join a health insurance fund (mutuelles in French). This also applies to expats.
  • Belgium has agreements with more than 20 countries outside Europe which affects access to healthcare. Check which countries get social security online. 

How does the public healthcare system work in Belgium?

  • Healthcare is largely subsidised by the Belgian government.
  • Public care is available to residents who are affiliated with a health insurance fund.
  • Public health insurance funds in principle reimburse 50-75% of the costs of treatment and medicines for patients.
  • Mutualities, such as CM (Christian Mutuality) or Partena, arrange reimbursements for medical costs. Public health insurance covers consultations with general practitioners and specialists, hospital admissions, medication (partially), limited dental care, rehabilitation services.
  • Expats from the EU can temporarily use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), but Belgian insurance is required for long-term stays.

How does the private healthcare system work in Belgium?

  • In addition to public healthcare, many people in Belgium opt for additional private insurance.
  • Private clinics and hospitals often offer more luxurious facilities and shorter waiting times.
  • Employees can take out private insurance through their employer (the so-called hospitalisation insurance), which covers additional costs, such as a single room in hospitals.

How is the family doctor or general practitioner arranged in Belgium?

  • Belgium works with a general practitioner system. The GP (generalist or "médecin généraliste") is usually your first point of contact for medical problems.
  • GPs often work with appointments, but some practices have free consultations.
  • Many GPs speak English, French and/or Dutch, depending on the region.

How is the dental care and dentist arranged in Belgium?

  • Dental care is of high quality in Belgium. Dentists work in both public and private clinics.
  • The costs are reasonable: a standard check-up costs around €30, part of which is reimbursed by your health insurance for basic treatments.
  • For orthodontics and other complex treatments, additional insurance is recommended.

How is pregnancy and maternity care arranged in Belgium?

  • Belgium offers excellent care for pregnant women.
  • When you are pregnant, you will receive regular prenatal consultations with gynaecologists, which are largely or fully reimbursed.
  • Hospitals offer comprehensive maternity care with both private and shared rooms.
  • There are also options for home births with midwives.
  • Breastfeeding in public is accepted in Belgium.
  • Abortion is legal until 12 weeks of pregnancy. 

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Belgium?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Belgium?

  • Belgium is a relatively safe country, but as in almost any urban environment, you should be alert to your belongings.
  • Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, occurs in tourist areas and busy stations.
  • Violent crime is rare, but there is extra security in public places since previous terrorist attacks.
  • Watch your belongings in busy cities such as Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Belgium?

  • Belgium has no specific health risks such as tropical diseases. However, you can pick up ticks when walking. So always check your body for tick bites after a walk in nature/in parks.
  • The tapwater is safe to drink and of good quality.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Belgium?

  • The roads are generally well maintained, but traffic jams are common around cities such as Brussels.
  • Traffic drives on the right, as in the Netherlands.
  • You need a valid driving licence to drive; an EU driving licence is sufficient.
  • Traffic in cities can be chaotic, especially during rush hour. Cycling is becoming increasingly popular, but Belgian cities are not always as bike-friendly as the Netherlands.
  • Belgium has an extensive and reliable public transport system, with trains, buses, and trams that cover the entire country.

What are the best insurance options for backpacking, traveling, doing an internship, studying, volunteering, or working in Belgium?

What types of insurance should you get if you're planning to emigrate, work as an expat, or live in Belgium?

What insurance can you choose as backpacker, emigrant, expat, intern, nomad, student, volunteer or traveler abroad?

What are the main international insurances through JoHo and WorldSupporter for activities, backpacking or travel to or from Belgium

Advice and decision support
Insurance

What are the main international insurances through JoHo and WorldSupporter for emigrants, expats and nomads in Belgium

Advice and decision support
Insurance
Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is travel insurance to insure your trip or vacation?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance in the event of accidents, for example, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back to your home country urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies in your home country.
  • With continuous travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.

Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are away.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you are going to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possible work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

What insurance do you need for a trip or vacation?

 

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

What is backpacking insurance and travel insurance for backpackers?

  • Backpacking insurance for backpackers means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad and is specifically intended for those who are traveling for a long time, traveling independently, or making frequent use of local transportation.

Why should you take out travel insurance specifically for backpacking?

  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage for damage and accidents during your adventurous or sporting activities.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family while backpacking.

What aspects are important to insure when backpacking abroad?

  • The duration of your trip: so that you are also covered during a very long backpacking trip, or can extend your coverage if you want to stay longer
  • The activities during your trip: so that you can also participate in all kinds of sports and adventure activities that are excluded from travel insurance
  • Coverage of your medical expenses during your trip: so that you are always covered, even if you go to work or if the costs in the event of an accident are higher than the Dutch rate
  • Coverage for natural disasters and war during your trip: so that you don't have to return home immediately with your tail between your legs every time the Dutch government issues negative travel advice
  • Your insurer's specialization: so that your insurer specializes in backpacking trips or long stays abroad, and doesn't treat you like an “all-inclusive sunglasses claimant.”

What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

What is insurance for working abroad?

  • Insuring yourself for working abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your paid work abroad.

Why take out insurance, and when is normal travel insurance no longer sufficient?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for paid work abroad.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes greater during your work, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only special insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive a salary or compensation (for example, food or housing), your local health insurance coverage will normally lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally do not provide sufficient coverage to apply for a work visa or working holiday visa.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only cover stays abroad for a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that there will be no coverage for the entire travel period.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without study, internship, or work. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities, this generally means that you will no longer be covered for the entire travel period.

What should you pay attention to in your insurance policy if you are going to work abroad?

  • Make sure you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and working.
  • Make sure you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you take care to choose the right coverage when working in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous machinery.

What insurance do you need to work abroad?

What is insurance for working with animals abroad, and why do you need specific insurance for jobs, internships, and volunteer work abroad?

What is insurance for working with animals abroad, and why do you need specific insurance for jobs, internships, and volunteer work abroad?

What is insurance for working with animals abroad?

  • Insuring yourself for working abroad with animals means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your paid, unpaid, or internship work abroad, where minor or major risks are involved.

Why take out insurance, and when is normal travel insurance no longer sufficient?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for work abroad.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only special insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work. Almost all standard insurers exclude working with animals from coverage.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes greater during your work, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work. All over the world, there are reserves, rescue centers, and zoos where you can roll up your sleeves as a veterinarian, intern, or volunteer. Working with animals or wildlife is not without danger. No matter how cute they may look, or how tame they may behave. All animals can suddenly bite viciously or lash out with a claw or beak. Not only can this result in nasty injuries, but it can also transmit diseases that you would rather not have, and certainly not abroad.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive a salary or compensation (for example, food or housing), your local health insurance coverage will normally lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.

What should you pay attention to in your insurance policy if you are going to work abroad?

  • Make sure you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and working.
  • That you have insurance that provides sufficient coverage for the work you will be performing.
  • Make sure you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.

Which insurance do you need for working, an internship, or volunteering with animals abroad?

What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work?

What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work?

What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.

What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.

What insurance do you need when volunteering abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.

What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.

What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

What is an expat insurance or emigration insurance, and why specifically take out insurance if you are going to do move abroad?

What is an expat insurance or emigration insurance, and why specifically take out insurance if you are going to do move abroad?

What is an expat insurance?

  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.

What is an emigration insurance, or insurance for moving and living abroad?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.

Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.

What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks

When can you also live abroad for a longer period of time with travel insurance?

  • There are also special expiring travel insurance policies that provide coverage without you having valid health insurance in your home country, however, these travel insurance policies are not intended for emigration or expats, but for stays outside your home country of up to a few years, for study, temporary work, volunteer work, and longer trips.
  • See the information at International Insurances for backpacking and travel abroad

What insurance do you need for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

International insurance through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

International insurance through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

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Table of content

  • Why should you take out insurance through the JoHo Foundation when you go abroad?
  • Insuring activities abroad:
    • internships, studying, volunteer work or paid work
    • backpacking, holiday, travel or round the world
    • emigration, living abroad, working as expat
  • Insurances for abroad: per insurance 
  • Insurances for abroad: per organization
  • How healthcare works
......Read more on this page
Insuring, troubleshooting and safe travel abroad

Insuring, troubleshooting and safe travel abroad

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Table of contents
  • Why get specific insurance when going abroad?
  • How to survive disasters abroad ?
  • How to insure activities abroad?
  • Which Insurances apply for internships, staying, studying, volunteer work or paid work abroad?

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Reading & Remembering

Belgium: Updates & Travel

Belgium: Updates & Travel

Travel in Belgium?

  • Belgium has a lot to offer: from outdoor activities in the beautiful Belgian Ardennes to great city trips in medieval towns such as Ghent and Bruges. The world port city of Antwerp and Brussels as the ‘Capital of Europe’ also have interesting museums, cozy cafes, terraces, restaurants and beautiful historic buildings. A road trip through the countryside is also worthwhile, with an overnight stay in one of the many castles. Liège waffle, Belgian fries and Belgian specialty beer complete the picture.
  • You never get enough to enjoy outdoor activities such as mountain biking and canoeing in the beautiful Belgian Ardennes!
  • Admire (with many other tourists) Manneke Pis in the center of Brussels.
  • Sail through the medieval canals in Ghent
  • Visit the ‘Musee de la Bataille des Ardennes’ in La Roche-en-Ardennes, where the Ardennes offensive in the Second World War is depicted in an impressive way. Wander through the medieval streets and alleys of Bruges (like an open-air museum).
  • Bruges is famous for its historic centre and is also a good shopping and walking city, because cars are prohibited in most of the centre.
  • A long weekend of relaxation in Ghent is definitely recommended. This Flemish city in the northwest of Belgium exudes a medieval atmosphere and has a lively student life.
  • Antwerp is a diamond city, so a visit to the diamond museum is a must. Antwerp is also one of the largest port cities in Europe with a large harbour on the Scheldt. The Jewish quarter is also nice, where you can eat delicious kosher food.
  • La Roche-en-Ardennes: Very pleasant place in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes. Good base for outdoor activities in the area and famous for its smoked ham.
  • Brussels: This bilingual city (half French, half Flemish) has a number of world-famous sights with the Atomium and Manneke Pis. But also the Grote Markt with its many terraces and impressive buildings is absolutely worth it. Brussels is also seen as the ‘Capital of Europe’ because the European Parliament and the European Commission (worth a visit!) are located here.
  • Be prepared: in every (large) city you have to watch out for pickpockets. Especially in busy tourist places.

Updates Belgium

  • More about Belgium, updates and contributions, see the link below.
Belgium: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle

Belgium: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle

Content about Belgium shared by WorldSupporters

Welk visum regelen voor een reis naar België

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Image Combineer het buiten zijn en genieten van de Ardennen door het doen van allerlei klusjes op een camping! Met gratis verblijf, mits je eigen kampeergerei hebt en voor een lange tijd kunt blijven
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Zoek je een baan op financieel gebied? Deze organisatie kan je daarbij helpen!
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Doe ervaring op in de horeca of op evenementen, met internationale doorgroeimogelijkheden
Image Draai mee in een professionele werkomgeving binnen een internationaal marketingbureau
Draai mee in een professionele werkomgeving binnen een internationaal marketingbureau
Image Ga in het hoogseizoen aan de slag in de horeca op een luxe camping te midden van de Ardennen
Je bedient de gasten van een luxe camping in één van hun horecagelegenheden en zorgt dat alles naar wens is. Afhankelijk van waar je staat help je ook mee in de keuken...
Image Word restaurant-/barmedewerker op een cruiseschip
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Werken en stagelopen in de makelaardij in het buitenland
Image Interculturele projecten in Brussel zoals meewerken aan jeugd werk en bijlessen geven, Franse kennis vereist
Interculturele projecten in Brussel zoals meewerken aan jeugd werk en bijlessen geven, Franse kennis vereist.
Image Live with a Dutch/Belgium family as an au pair
Live with a Dutch/Belgium family as an au pair and help with general housework and childcare in exchange for room, board and pocket money
Activities abroad: home bundle

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,,,accommodations, adventure activities, courses, internships, jobs and volunteer projects

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Activities abroad: home page

Activities abroad: home page

From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

      Activities abroad: for experiencing countries and cultures abroad

      Activities abroad: for experiencing countries and cultures abroad

      Bundled content for experiencing countries and cultures during gap year, travel and backpacking abroad

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      Activities abroad: for sports, adventure and outdoor abroad

      Activities abroad: for sports, adventure and outdoor abroad

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      How does the healthcare system work in Belgium, and which insurance do you need? What is the quality of healthcare in Belgium? How does the public healthcare system work...
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      Image Belgium: Updates & Travel
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      Countries & Destinations: home bundle

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      Europe: country bundles

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      Image Flowtrack
      Flowtrack is een reisorganisatie die actieve reizen aanbiedt voor jongeren, van surfcamps tot skireizen. Voor de reizen zijn ze regelmatig op zoek naar Nederlandse...
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      Image Camping Bertrix
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      international law

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      Organizations: for mediation in au pairs, childcare and elderly care in the Netherlands
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      Moving abroad and relocation

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      Costa Rica rain forest - Jungle

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      Organizations: for providing accommodation and hospitality work in hotels, guesthouses, ecolodges and hostels abroad

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      Organizations: for providing healthcare and working in medical care abroad

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      Organizations: for psychological assistance and mental health care abroad

      Organizations: for psychological assistance and mental health care abroad

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      Psychological assistance, coaching and mental health care abroad: by position

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      Organizations: for research and scientific work abroad

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      Boeksamenvatting bij de 1e druk van Politiek in een veranderende wereld van Erk

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      SIW

      SIW is een Nederlandse vrijwilligersorganisatie die Nederlandse vrijwilligers naar projecten over heel de wereld zendt, en buitenlandse vrijwilligers op diverse projecten in Nederland ontvangt. Heb je een tussenjaar, wil je eens iets anders of wil je misschien ervaring opdoen en wil je voor korte of...

      Werk en Reis

      Werk En Reis is opgericht door backpackers voor backpackers! De missie is om zoveel mogelijk mensen te helpen om zonder zorgen op working holiday te vertrekken en dezelfde levensveranderende ervaring te hebben als destijds Michelle de oprichtster .

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