Belgium to begin collecting road tolls in May 2027

Belgium is preparing to introduce road tolls across all three of its regions, affecting both domestic and foreign vehicles starting May 2027. This significant shift in transportation policy aims to manage road usage and potentially fund infrastructure improvements.

Drivers will have the option to purchase digital toll passes, known as "Viapass," either in advance online or at fuel stations. These passes will be linked directly to a vehicle's license plate, streamlining the toll collection process. The system is designed to be flexible, offering short-term passes valid from one day up to two months, alongside the primary annual system.

The annual toll fee will be determined by the type of vehicle, creating a tiered pricing structure. Notably, electric vehicles will benefit from the lowest annual charge, set at €90. In contrast, vehicles running on older diesel or gasoline engines will face a higher annual fee of €125. This pricing strategy is intended to incentivize the use of more environmentally friendly transportation options.

Motorcycles and buses will be exempt from the new toll system in Flanders, Wallonia, and the Brussels-Capital Region. While the core details of the plan are set, some aspects are still being finalized. Reports suggest that Belgian drivers might receive tax exemptions through adjustments to the country's vehicle tax system, designed to offset the cost of the new road tolls they will be required to pay.