As of the 14th of September, you can get tested on Covid-19 at our airport after your trip, when returning from a red zone. The internationally recognised PCR test can be taken at the departure hall, outside the airport building. The test centre is operated by Ecolog and is open daily from 3.30 a.m. until midnight. Preferably you can book your appointment online, but you can also register on the spot.
In a second phase, when the on-site lab is operational at the airport (end of September), departing passengers too will be able to get tested for the virus. Passengers who, for example, are travelling to a country that requires a negative COVID-19 test certificate, will be able to obtain this certificate at the airport.
1. Who can get tested?
- Passengers arriving from a red zone. They are obliged to get tested when arriving in Belgium and can immediately get tested upon arrival at Brussels Airport, or later at any other testing facility.
- Persons with an activation code. You will receive this “corona test prescription code” by SMS from the Belgian government. This is done following a contact tracing procedure, for example after filling in a Passenger Locator Form. The code consists of 16 digits and letters.
You can only get tested if you do not show any COVID-19 symptoms. In a second phase, when the on-site lab that will carry out the analyses is operational, departing passengers will also be able to have themselves tested at the airport. This may be useful when travelling to a country that requires a negative test certificate.
Taking a test is possible from the age of 2 years. For returning passengers from red zones, by government decision, children under the age of 6 should not be tested.
2. What kind of test is it?
Operator Ecolog performs a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test. A sample is taken from the nose with a cotton swab (according to Sciensano’s instructions, the Federal Scientific Institute of Public Health in Belgium).
The molecular test gives an indication of the presence of the COVID-19 virus only at the time of testing. You may not eat, drink, smoke or brush your teeth 15 minutes prior to the test.
Ecolog collaborates with an ISO 15189 accredited lab, which makes the results internationally valid.
3. How can I register for a test?
You can register online for a COVID-19 test through the platform of operator Ecolog.
To register, you will need:
- Your activation code i.e. the “corona test prescription code” which exists of 16 digits and letters.
- Your current address as well as the address where you will be staying for the next 14 days.
At the test centre itself, you must also be able to present your passport or identity card. Please keep in mind that wearing a face mask is compulsory at the airport premises.
If you don’t have the possibility to register online, you can also register on site. Please take into account that there may be a queue.
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4. When do I get the result of my test?
In case of a mandatory test (with an activation code) you will receive the results as follows:
- If the test is taken before 2 p.m., you will receive the certificate the same day, before midnight.
- If the test is taken after 2 p.m., you will receive the certificate in the course of the following day.
With a rapid test you will get the result after about 3 hours. This test will shortly be available at this location.
Operator Ecolog will send you the results of your COVID-19 test by e-mail if you have registered online for the test, by post if you have registered on site. This means that you can just go home and wait for the result or continue your stay.
An online registration is strongly recommended.
The certificate can be issued in the following languages: English, Dutch, French and German.
5. How much does it cost?
Passengers who return from a red zone and receive an SMS with a “corona test prescription code” on arrival at Brussels Airport, pay the rate of €46.81. If you are a member of a Belgian health insurance fund, that amount is covered by the health insurance and you do not have to pay. This is done directly between the health insurance and the lab.
Without a corona test prescription (activation code), for voluntary tests, the standard PCR test will cost 67 euros, for a rapid test you pay 135 euros. This will only be possible in a second phase.
You can pay by various means of payment, either at registration or on site. We advise you to pay contact-free, if possible.
6. What if I test positive?
In the event of a positive test, we ask you to leave the airport premises immediately and respect a self-quarantine. Also contact your doctor.
In the event of a positive test result, operator Ecolog will also notify the necessary authorities, even if you are not a Belgian national. The contact tracing process is initiated in the same way as in other laboratories.
