Sharing Netflix accounts now more expensive in Belgium

Streaming service Netflix will make sharing an account with someone who does not live in the same house more expensive in Belgium, the company has announced.

Until now, Netflix has tolerated the fact that millions of people worldwide are using a family member's or friend's account, but this is about to change. The company already launched a trial to end sharing outside the household in several countries and is now rolling it out further, including in Belgium.

"We recognise that our members have many entertainment choices," the company said. "This is why we continue to invest heavily in a wide variety of new films and TV programmes."

Additional member fee

Netflix customers who share an account will receive an email reminding them that an account can only be used by people living at the same address. If they ignore the message, they will have to verify their household and additional viewers from outside the household will no longer have access.

Those who want to continue sharing their subscription with someone outside the household will be able to add an additional member for 3.99 euros per month. However, this will only be possible for Standard or Premium subscriptions and not for the cheapest Basic subscription.

Watching Netflix while travelling, on your own device or on a television in a hotel or holiday home, will remain possible for everyone in the same household, the company said.

^{© PHOTO CHRIS DELMAS / AFP}