New Toll in Belgium Starting in 2027
Key information about the introduction of tolls in Belgium
“Everyone who uses our roads must make a fair contribution to their maintenance,” said François Desquesnes, Walloon Minister of Infrastructure and Mobility. From 1 May 2027, the digital toll will be introduced after being under discussion for years.
An overview of the key information regarding the introduction of tolls:
- The Belgian toll will take effect on 1 May 2027. Following its introduction, there will initially be a two-month grace period. After that, fines starting at €70 may be imposed.
- The new digital toll applies to all vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes. A toll has been in effect for vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tonnes for several years.
- Motorcycles and tour buses are exempt from the toll.
- Depending on the vehicle, the annual toll is expected to range from €90 for electric cars to up to €125 for older internal-combustion vehicles. In addition, short-term tollsa are planned; their prices are listed in the table below.
- Compliance with the toll will be monitored using license plate recognition via cameras.
As of now, the following prices apply:
| Validity Period | Rates by Vehicle Type | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric Vehicle | Euro 4 and above” | Euro 0 to 3 | |
| 24 Hours | €8.10 | €9.00 | €11.25 |
| 10 Days | €10.80 | €12.00 | €15.00 |
| 1 Month | €17.10 | €19.00 | €23.75 |
| 2 Months | €27.00 | €30.00 | €37.50 |
| 1 Year | €90.00 | €100.00 | €125.00 |
Who are the new toll rules for, and where do they apply?
The new toll applies to all vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes on Belgian motorways and regional roads in Flanders, Wallonia, and the Brussels-Capital Region. Drivers who travel exclusively on local municipal roads do not need a digital toll pass. It does not matter whether the vehicle has a Belgian or foreign license plate. In addition, Belgium is planning tax breaks for residents. However, it is currently unclear whether these are compatible with European law.
As early as 2019, Germany attempted to introduce a passenger car toll that would have provided financial relief to German drivers. However, the European Court of Justice rauled that this model was discriminatory. Belgium could now face a similar legal challenge.
What does this mean for travellers? Whether you're coming from Belgium, Germany, France, or any other European country – anyone planning even a day trip to Belgium by car will need to arrange the digital toll in advance.
Conclusion
With the introduction of digital tolls starting May 1, 2027, there will be some changes for drivers in Belgium. Anyone planning to drive on Belgian motorways and regional roads in the future should therefore familiarise themselves with the new regulations well in advance and purchase the required toll before setting out on their trip.
Are you planning a trip to Belgium despite the new toll?
► Here you’ll find more information about toll regulations in Belgium so you can be fully prepared for your trip.