Whether you need a landline, a mobile plan, or a broadband Internet connection, Belgium offers a wide range of operators and packages. This article explains the procedures, necessary documents, expected costs, and options to bundle your services and save.
Steps to obtain a landline in Belgium
Contact Proximus, the national telephone operator in Belgium. You can either visit a branch or call them at 32 800 33 800 or 32 800 33 200 (toll-free). You will then be able to choose from the various telephone operators in Belgium.
The subscription requires you to be at least 18 years old and present a valid ID. A contract must be signed for the installation of a physical line at your home.
Connecting the line costs about €50, but it might be free if you subscribe to a package combining Internet, TV, and phone. Once Proximus has processed your request, it usually takes up to 10 days for the line to become active. You will receive a letter, a call, or an SMS informing you that your line is ready to be used.
The landline phone itself is not free. You will need to purchase one either from specialized stores or through your operator.
The bill is sent every two months. It must be paid within 15 days of receipt. You can also choose to pay by direct debit. To do so, you will need to sign a form authorizing your bank to debit the amount directly from your bank account.
Mobile telephony in Belgium
Mobile phones
You can use your mobile phone with a monthly subscription or a recharge card. If you are a foreigner and wish to call your family and friends in your home country or send them an SMS, you will need to ask your operator to activate the international calls option on your phone (additional charges apply).
Belgium uses the GSM mobile network, with national coverage in 4G and 5G. For the best coverage, check with Proximus, Orange, or Telenet/Base.
Phone numbers
Mobile phone numbers in Belgium consist of 9 or 10 digits. The prefixes generally indicate the provider. For example, 047 is Proximus, 048 is Base, and 049 is Orange.
Subscriptions
To get a subscription, you must be a registered resident in Belgium and choose an operator. The documents required for subscription in person or online are:
The following documents are required to sign up in person or online:
- ID card or passport;
- Bank details;
- Proof of residence.
Non-subscription mobile services
Prepaid SIM cards in Belgium must be registered with a valid ID. You can buy a SIM card from any operator or authorized retailer. The average price is around €10. Top-ups are possible with cash, debit card, or online, often in increments of €5.
High-speed internet in Belgium
If you already have a telephone line (with Proximus, for example), you can check online if your address is eligible for an Internet signal. For cable or fiber, the connection is usually made by the chosen operator (Telenet, VOO, Proximus, Orange, etc.).
If you do not have an existing line, the installation of an access point is necessary before activation. Activation times vary: on average 3 to 10 days for cable or fiber, sometimes longer for satellite.
Be very careful of hidden fees: some operators provide all the necessary equipment, while others charge additional rental fees for the equipment. Fees may also apply in case of early termination.
Telecommunications offers in Belgium
Most operators in Belgium offer packages combining landline phone, high-speed Internet, digital television, and sometimes mobile telephony. Bundling your services often allows you to benefit from significant discounts or free installation fees.
Depending on your address, you can choose between the main players: Proximus, Orange, VOO, Telenet, as well as several alternative or specialized operators (Youfone, Mobile Vikings, edpnet, etc.).
Subscriptions may include additional services such as video on demand, cloud storage, or even mobile apps to manage your bills and options. In some professional offers, it is also possible to include website creation or hosting.
The following documents are necessary to subscribe to various subscriptions:
- ID card or passport;
- Bank details;
- Proof of address.
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