Belgium is set to implement a new road tax starting May 1, 2027, a move that will require all motorists—including foreign drivers transiting through the country—to contribute to the upkeep of the nation’s highway network. The three regions of Belgium, which are responsible for the maintenance of motorways, announced the decision on Friday following years of debate regarding the introduction of road usage charges.
Currently, Belgium does not charge drivers to use its highways. Under the new policy, vehicle owners will be required to register their vehicles and secure a pass. The system will offer day passes for those traveling across the country, while annual passes will be priced based on environmental impact. Owners of zero-emission vehicles will pay €90 annually, whereas those driving higher-polluting vehicles will face fees of up to €125. To enforce the new system, road cameras will be utilized, and drivers found without a valid pass will be subject to a €70 fine.
François Desquesnes, the transport minister for the Wallonia region, emphasized the necessity of the measure, stating, “Everyone who uses our roads must contribute fairly to their maintenance.” Officials have noted that the revenue generated will be dedicated exclusively to the operation and upkeep of the road infrastructure.
While the plan has been announced, it still requires final approval from both the regional authorities and European officials. According to the chairman of the liberal-conservative MR party, the government intends to offset the new toll by lowering other taxes for Belgians.
Md. Kazi Bijoy is a dedicated tech enthusiast and content creator with a passion for digital innovation. With years of experience in the tech industry, he specializes in breaking down complex topics into easy-to-understand guides. When he isn’t writing, he explores the latest gadgets and researches emerging trends in the digital world.