Belgium is set to introduce a toll system for all vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tonnes on its motorways and national roads from 1 May 2027. Although the scheme has yet to be finalised, news of the impending toll has already sparked a wave of enquiries from motorists in Luxembourg, according to Frank Maas, Head of the Mobility Solutions Department at the Automobile Club of Luxembourg (ACL).
He explained that the lack of clarity surrounding the system and the absence of an official law have led to uncertainty among drivers. The ACL is closely monitoring developments in order to keep the public informed as more information emerges.
Luxembourg's Minister of Mobility, Yuriko Backes, confirmed that the government is also still waiting for the full details of the Belgian plan, which it intends to analyse in cooperation with neighbouring countries. Backes emphasised that the government does not look favourably on the Belgian decision, highlighting that a final assessment can only be made once all legal texts are available and compliance with EU law can be verified.
She referenced the failed attempt at introducing a car toll in Germany, which was overturned because German residents would have received a tax rebate equal to the toll amount, effectively discriminating against foreign drivers.
EU rules explicitly prohibit discrimination based on nationality. Any system that charges only foreign-registered vehicles is not permitted. Belgian authorities have indicated that they have learned from Germany's failed toll scheme, but the precise details of the new vignette system have not yet been made public.
Based on current information, several options are being considered, including one-day and two-day tolls, one-month and two-month passes, and an annual pass. The fee would apply to all vehicles under 3.5 tonnes driving on Belgian motorways and expressways, with motorcycles exempt from the requirement.
Frank Maas of the ACL added that if the funds raised through the toll system are invested directly into Belgium's road infrastructure, the system could be considered positive. However, he stressed that any new toll must remain fair and straightforward, ensuring that freedom of movement between neighbouring countries is not compromised.
