belgium travel warning

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Belgium travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:21 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, belgium - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Belgium due to the threat of terrorism.

Back to top

Increase in drug-related violence

There has been an increase in violence, including stabbings and shootings, linked to the drug trade in Brussels and other major cities.

In February 2024, shootings have occurred in the commune of Brussels, in the Marolles neighbourhood, and around the following locations in the commune Saint-Gilles:

• Port-de-Hal
• Gare du Midi
• Place Jacques Franck

If you are in Brussels:

• be aware of your surroundings
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• expect a heightened police presence in certain areas

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, particularly in major cities, at popular tourist sites such as the Grand-Place (Grote Markt) in Brussels.

Pickpockets also target passengers in transportation hubs such as:

• train stations

Incidents of petty crime on trains along the Paris–Brussels–Amsterdam and Brussels–London routes are frequent, as well as at the following train stations:

• Gare de Bruxelles-Nord (Noordstation)
• Gare de Bruxelles-Centrale (Centraalstation)
• Gare de Bruxelles-Midi (Zuidstation)

While in Belgium:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times, particularly on public transportation
• take extra precautions on trains, as criminals often steal carry-on luggage from overhead compartments or from below seats
• never leave your luggage unattended
• keep car windows and doors locked at all times
• don’t leave any valuables in plain sight inside of vehicles
• be cautious of distraction tactics employed by criminals, such as spilling drinks, engaging you in lengthy conversations, posing odd questions, or offering to assist you unprompted

Violent crime

Violent crime is uncommon. However, incidents have been on the rise. Armed robbers and organized gangs have targeted jewellers, banks and individuals carrying cash and valuables.

• Don’t carry large amounts of cash
• Use caution when using ATMs, especially after dark

Organized gangs use the ports in the North of the country to conduct criminal activities such as smuggling, notably the trafficking of illicit drugs. This is particularly prevalent at the North Sea ports of Ostend and Antwerp. Clashes between rival gangs have lead to violent incidents in Antwerp and its suburbs, including explosive attacks and shootings. Always be aware of your surroundings.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others, and don’t let servers or merchants take your card out of sight
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• check ATMs or other machines for skimmers or removable readers, and avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.

In Belgium, separate attacks causing multiple deaths and injuries have taken place. Further attacks in Belgium cannot be ruled out. Further attacks elsewhere in Europe are also likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events, and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Enhanced security measures

Following a shooting in Brussels in October 2023, the national threat level increased to level 3 on a scale of 4.

Expect heightened security measures, including:

• an increased police presence across the country
• increased caution and scrutiny from security forces
• potential added security measures in certain places

Public alert system

The Government of Belgium maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media and social media.

Useful links

• Register with the Belgian Public Alert System (BE-Alert) - Belgian Crisis Centre
• Current terrorism threat levels - Belgian Crisis Centre
• @CrisiscenterBE - Belgian Crisis Centre (in French)

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place frequently, especially in Brussels in the city centre and the European Quarter. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are very good throughout the country.

The “priority to the right” system is in effect in Belgium.  Drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections. This is often a surprise to foreign drivers and results in accidents.

Familiarize yourself with the “priority to the right” system.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Belgian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

Belgium is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Student visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Work visa: required

Other requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Travel health insurance

When arriving in Belgium, visitors must show proof of travel health insurance covering the possible costs medical evacuation and emergency medical care.

The insurance must be valid throughout the territory of the Schengen States for the duration of the intended stay or transit. The minimum coverage is 30,000 euros.

Letter of support

If you plan to stay in private accommodations, you must show an invitation with proof of address or a letter of support from a local guarantor.

This letter of support must be issued prior to the date of travel.

Letters of support - Office des étrangers, Government of Belgium (In French)

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent in Belgium. Service is available throughout the country.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Belgium are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Belgium to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Belgium authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to show them appropriate identification at any time.

• Carry adequate identification, such as a passport or a residence permit
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it is lost or seized

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Belgium.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Belgium, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Belgium.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Belgium, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Belgian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Belgium to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You must be at least 18 years of age to drive a car in Belgium.

You should carry an international driving permit.

If you have obtained residence status in Belgium, your Canadian driver’s license will no longer be valid. You may convert your Canadian license to a Belgian licence before the date of expiry if it was issued by one of the following provinces:

• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Nova Scotia
• Saskatchewan

You can exchange the license in the municipality where you reside.

• Driving in Belgium - European Commission
• International Driving Permit
• Recognized Canadian driver's licenses - Service public fédéral Mobilité et Transports (in French)

The currency of Belgium is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Belgium has a temperate climate with little variation from one region to another.

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains, particularly in spring and summer, can cause severe flooding and landslides. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Flooding - Belgian crisis centre

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 101
• all other emergencies: 112

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Belgium, in Brussels, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

• KAYAK for Business NEW

Belgium Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Belgium

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

Belgium entry details and exceptions

Ready to travel, find flights to belgium, find stays in belgium, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Belgium from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belgium.

Can I travel to Belgium if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Belgium without restrictions.

Can I travel to Belgium without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Belgium without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Belgium?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Belgium.

Can I travel to Belgium without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Belgium?

Mask usage in Belgium is not required on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Belgium?

Restaurants in Belgium are open. Bars in Belgium are .

coronavirus info

Dear future visitors, dear Brussels residents,  we wish you a pleasant visit to Brussels. Please follow the information available on this page to ensure a safe journey, taking into account the measures that are in force.

General rules

The following measures apply:  Wearing a mask (that covers both your nose and mouth) is only mandatory in health care facilities and pharmacies. Masks must be worn from the age of 12. There is no obligation in wearing a mask in public transport.

We would like to remind you that these measures are in addition to the 6 golden rules:

• Respect the health and safety measures;
• Outdoor activities are preferred to indoor ones;
• Pay special attention to vulnerable people;
• Respect 1m50 social distancing;
• Limit close contact with others;
• Follow the rules on gatherings.

To find out more, please consult the  SPF (Federal Public Services) COVID-19 website .

COVID Safe Ticket and COVID certificate

The Covid Safe Ticket (CST) is the variation of the European Covid certificate, intended for travel abroad. The use of the CST is currently suspended. 

More detailed information on the use of the Covid Safe Ticket in Brussels and on the certificates for travellers is available  here . 

Travel and moving

• If you are thinking of travelling in Belgium or coming back to Belgium after a trip abroad, you must read the  latest travel advice .
• The  Passenger Locator Form  (PLF) is no longer mandatory. 
• The requirement to be tested on the 1st and 7th day and the 10 day quarantine is removed. 
• There is no more requirement for people travelling to Belgium to have one of the three COVID-19 certificates (vaccination, test or recovery), unless it is required for travellers coming from a country with a new variant of concern. 
• If you are leaving Belgium, in order for you to find out about the situation in your destination country, consult the  Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs'  website.  

Transport : arrival to Brussels

When coming to Brussels by train, bus, plane or car it is strongly advised to check the latest information about your means of transport and the main places of arrival.

• Airplane : situation at  Brussels Airport  (Brussels Airport) and at  Brussels South Charleroi Airport  ;
• Train :  SNCB ,  Eurostar ,  Trainline  
• International bus services :  Flixbus

Transport : moving around Brussels

In Brussels, public transport flows swiftly. 

More information – Brussels public transport agency :  STIB  (bus, tramway, metro) ; and also  SNCB  (train),  De Lijn  (bus),  TEC  (bus).

You can also use taxi services and shared bikes or scooters.

Accomodation

• Hotels can welcome guests. However we invite you to check the opening of the hotel of your choice before your arrival.
• Other accomodations such as bed&breakfast or youth hostels may welcome guests. However we invite you to check with the establishment of your choice before your arrival.
• The camping sites are open.

Leisure : walks, visits, cultural, sporting and recreational activities

• City centre - When you move throughout Brussels, look through the webcam in order for you to visit the city centre safely:  Grand Place ,  De Brouckère Square . Check the people counting on Rue Neuve  here
• Museums are open to the public via their reservation system. 
• Bookshops, libraries, media and games libraries are open to the public.
• Discotheques and nightclubs are open.
• Party halls are open. 
• Casinos, bowlings and escape rooms are open.
• Cinemas, theatres and concert halls are open. A Covid Safe ticket or certificate is required. 
• Professional sports competitions may only take place with public. 
• All sports halls and fitness centers are open. A Covid Safe ticket or certificate will be required for access for all indoor sports and outdoor above 200 persons. 
• Swimming pools are open and community protocols regulate access and organisation.
• Spa and wellness centres are open.
• Funfairs are allowed. Applicable rules must be signposted at the entrance, at the stand or the attraction.
• Outdoors, you can enjoy a break sitting in a park, an outdoor playground or natural parks, as well as the outdoor spaces of sports centres to do sports alone.
• Animal parks are open. 
• Amusement parks are open.
• Guided tours are organised with a maximum of 200 people.

Shopping and services : Shops, markets, flea markets

• The various shops and night shops are open. 
• Hairdressers are open.
• Local markets are allowed following the conditions set by the municipalities.
• Flea markets and seasonal markets are allowed. 

HORECA : Cafés, bars, restaurants

• Bars and restaurants are open. (without time restrictions)
• In restaurants, meals can be ordered to take away upon the restaurant service hours. Hotel restaurants can provide room service meals for hotel guests.

Meetings: gatherings, events, fairs, trade shows, conferences, worship services and ceremonies

• Open air manifestations are allowed with with no limit on the maximum number of people.
• Public events are allowed indoors and outdoors. 
• Trade fairs, exhibitions, conferences and professional meetings indoors are allowed. 
• Team building activities are permitted. 
• Receptions, parties and banquets are permitted.
• Places of worship and public buildings are open.
• The maximum amount of guests for civil weddings, religious ceremonies, funerals and cremations for indoor events for outdoor events is abolished.

Work and schools

• Working from home is recommended in the private sector and in all public administrations, unless the nature of the function or the continuity of the activities do not allow it. 
• Schools are open and operate according to the rules for respective education levels.  

Hygiene measures

Please note that basic hygiene measures remain valid, such as washing hands with soap, coughing and sneezing into the crook of the elbow and avoiding close contact. If you need medical advice, we recommend that you contact your doctor by phone or visit  http://doctorbrussels.be .

Travellers: Instructions in case of suspected Covid-19

If you have fever and/or difficulty breathing or other symptoms that suggest you have Covid-19, you are instructed to quarantine yourself in your accommodation. Your accommodation should provide a room with a means of isolation to avoid contact with other people. You can also contact your consulate or embassy. If you have any further questions, please also check  www.info-coronavirus.be   for the latest updates and news.

Additional information sources

• Brussels information portal on the coronavirus -  coronavirus.brussels
• Frequently asked questions  (FAQ) to the Federal Public Service (FPS) Public Health, Safety of the Food Chain and Environment
• Situation in Belgium and recommendations of the Belgian government : Federal Public Service (FPS) Public Health, Safety of the Food Chain and Environment
• Recommendations of the World Health Organisation  (WHO)
• Recommendations of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control  (ECDC, European Agency)
• European Commission / Public Health website
• Re-open EU  platform - with information on borders, available (public) transport, travel restrictions, public health and safety measures such as distance rules or protective masks. It also provides practical information for travellers, such as beaches, cafés or restaurants open in summer.

We remind you that these measures applied in Brussels are being regularly updated. For more information on the situation in Belgium, please consult the  SPF (Federal Public Services) COVID-19 website .

As for us, at visit.brussels, we will continue to support you and will handle all your requests. Do you have a specific question? Our welcome offices and the exhibition  experience.brussels  are open. We will be happy to help you. Contact us by chat via our homepage or by phone on +32 2 513 89 40 from 09:30 to 17:30 during the week and from 10:00 to 18:00 during the weekends and on bank holidays.

Look after yourselves and others!

• Skip to content
• Watch the latest news broadcast

What are Belgium's new corona restrictions?

From 20 November Belgium is (re)introducing a raft of measures to stem the spread of coronavirus. The consultative committee that groups the various governments and has the final say on restrictions convened at 2:30PM on Wednesday.

Face coverings become mandatory in indoor public spaces: on public transport, in hospitality, at health care centres, at events both indoor and outdoor, in shops and malls, in public buildings and businesses where there is public access, in libraries, at gyms and places of worship.

Down the pub and in restaurants customers will once again have to don a face covering unless they are seated.   You will need to mask as you enter, when you stand up or use the facilities at all hospitality venues. The measure comes in addition to the requirement to show a green Covid Safe Ticket.

At the disco you will have to present your Covid Safe Ticket and take a self-test or don a face covering if you wish to dance.  Cafés where dancing is permitted need to follow the rules for hospitality: face coverings will be required while you dance.

The age at which children are obliged to wear a face covering is being lowered to ten years of age - down from 12. Education ministers will decide the exact modalities of face covering wearing in schools.

The Covid Safe Ticket and face coverings will be required at public and private events for 50 and more people indoors and 100 and more people outdoors, but also in hospitality when you are not seated, in theatres, concert halls, cultural centres, cinemas, museums and indoor amusement arcades.

Four days of homeworking a week become obligatory till 12 December.   After 12 December three days of homeworking a week will be required. Businesses where this is not possible will enjoy an exemption.

The measures will apply till 28 January.

In the next ten days ministers will finalise plans for a booster or third jab to be offered to everybody by the end of March or April. Over 65s and health care workers are first in line. People who received the Janssen vaccine (Johnson & Johnson) or the AstraZeneca vaccine will be next. The booster jab is a dose of Pfizer or Moderna.

Prime Minister Alexander De Croo (Flemish liberal) told a news conference in Brussels that the map of Europe was colouring red as a result of an increase in infections.   He said Belgium wasn’t escaping the new advance of the virus and that measures were needed.   “Fortunately, nine out of ten people are vaccinated and this means that no new lockdown is required.   The vaccine lessens the severity of the illness, but doesn’t rule it out altogether” Mr De Croo said.

He spoke of health care workers, who were tired as they faced yet another wave, and said he understood people were frustrated.   He too would have preferred a winter without corona, but the delta variant was three times more contagious.   The prime minister said an effort from everybody was required and that the most important thing was to reduce contacts.

The premier insisted on four basic rules: limit your contacts as much as possible and meet up outside, keep a physical distance, wear a face covering and ventilate indoor spaces.

Top stories

Council of state rules that ban of conservative-right conference violated right to peaceful assembly, antwerp teenager seriously injured after being hit by tram, small boat to be escorted to uk waters: “migrants refuse to alter course”, 9-year-old boy that went missing on tuesday found alive in a ditch, one in three women in belgium is a victim of psychological violence, brussels municipality takes legal action against flemish regional authority over roadworks at leonard interchange, weather fails to put a dampener on “play outside day”: more than 60% of activities to go ahead as planned, princess eléonore celebrates her 16th birthday, three attacks in one night in antwerp province: explosive devices thrown at homes in merksem, borgerhout and boom, belgium and norway join forces to transport and store co2.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Belgium due to the threat of terrorism.

Belgium (PDF 198.98 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

• The threat level for Belgium, including Brussels, remains at level 3 of 4, meaning there's a possible and imminent threat. (A threat level of 3 is identified as 'Serious' by the Belgian Coordination Unit for Threat Analysis).
• There's an ongoing threat of terrorism in Belgium. Terrorists have staged attacks and may plan more. Crowded places, such as music and cultural events, tourist areas, shopping areas, transport hubs, major sporting events and other public areas are possible targets. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local authorities. Report anything suspicious to the police.
• Petty crime, such as mugging, pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs. Thieves often try to distract you. Take care of your belongings and passports, particularly at tourist spots, on public transport, train stations and other crowded areas.  
• Demonstrations are common. Belgium hosts large international meetings. Increased security can disrupt transport. Avoid affected areas.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Medical care and facilities are similar to Australia.
• Australia has a reciprocal health care agreement with Belgium. You can get treated in public medical facilities, but you still need travel insurance.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Always carry your passport or Belgian government-issued ID.
• It's illegal to wear clothing that largely or completely hides your face in public places (parks, buildings, public transport, on the street). Wearing such clothing risks a fine and/or detention for up to 7 days. There's no exemption for tourists.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Belgium is a part of the  Schengen area , along with many other European countries, meaning you can enter Belgium without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you'll need a visa.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Belgian embassy or consulate for the latest details. 

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy  in Brussels.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Following a terrorist attack in 2023, the threat level for Belgium, including Brussels, is now level 3 of 4, meaning there's a possible and imminent threat. (A threat level of 3 is identified as 'Serious' by the Belgian Coordination Unit for Threat Analysis.)

Brussels hosts several international institutions (EU and NATO) and government and foreign embassy buildings, which are sensitive locations. 

There have been many high-profile terrorist attacks across Belgium. Previous incidents include attacks against civilians and security forces:

• 16 October 2023 – 2 people were shot and killed in Brussels.
• Nov 2022 - a police officer was killed and another injured in a suspected terrorist incident in Brussels. 
• May 2018 – 2 police officers and a passer-by were killed in a shooting in Liege in a suspected terrorist incident. 
• June 2017 — a failed attack at Brussels central train station
• March 2016 — attacks at Brussels National Airport, Zaventem and Maalbeek/Maelbeek metro station — 32 people killed and 300 injured.

More attacks may happen at any time.

In 2019, the Belgian authorities successfully disrupted various attack plans, making a number of arrests. Anti-terrorism operations continue. 

Crowded places may be the target of an attack, such as:

• tourist areas
• shopping areas
• train stations
• public transport
• major sporting and music events

Belgian police continue to conduct anti-terror operations. These may occur with little or no warning.

If you're in the area of a police operation:

• follow the instructions and advice of local authorities
• stay indoors and close windows and blinds, if possible

Enhanced security arrangements are in place at the Australian Embassy in Brussels. Visitors must pass a security screening. Don't bring your luggage with you.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• report anything suspicious to the police
• monitor official and media sources for updates
• follow the advice of local authorities

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Public Alert System

The Belgian Government provides information in the case of emergencies through the  Belgian Crisis Centre  (available in French, Dutch or German) and social media ( Facebook  and  Twitter ). You can also register to be notified in an emergency through the Belgian Public Alert System ( Be-Alert ).

More information:

Crimes such as theft,  mugging , pickpocketing, and bag snatching are common in urban and tourist areas. Theft on board intercity and international trains is also common.

Hotspots for crime include the popular tourist spots in:

Pickpockets also target passengers in transportation hubs such as the Metro, train stations and airports.

Incidents of petty crime on trains along the Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam and Brussels-London routes are frequent.

Thieves often work in teams of 2 or 3. They distract victims by:

• asking you a question
• spilling food or drink
• telling you someone has spilt something on your clothes

To stay safe from crime:

• take care in transport hubs, tourist areas and some inner-city areas, especially at night
• seek local advice about the safety of certain areas
• take care of your belongings on trains, in public transport and at major train stations, particularly at Gare du Midi/Zuidstation (South Station), Gare de Bruxelles-Nord/Noordstation (North Station) and Gare De Bruxelles-Centrale/Centraalstation (Central Station)
• carry your travel documents while travelling
• avoid walking alone after dark or in isolated areas.

In the event of theft, contact the nearest police station and get a police report.

Incidents of violent crime among organised criminal gangs involved in drug trafficking have increased recently, particularly in Antwerp. The risk primarily concerns those involved in drug crime. Be vigilant if you suspect illegal activity is underway. In the event of any incident involving violent or serious crime, follow the advice of local authorities.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and strike action often occur in transport hubs, cities, and the Schuman area in Brussels. While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of isolated incidents of unrest or violence. 

Demonstrations are common, often directed at:

• European Union institutions

Belgium often hosts large international meetings. Heads of state, senior government and business figures may attend.

Before and during these meetings, authorities often increase security measures around Brussels or other parts of Belgium. This may disrupt travel.

To avoid issues:

• follow the instructions of local authorities or security staff
• monitor local media for updates on possible unrest
• avoid affected areas
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Climate and natural disasters

Severe weather  can affect your travel. Monitor local media for updates.

If you plan to visit an affected area:

• confirm your plans with your tour operator or travel provider
• check conditions with local tour operators and hotels

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Belgium. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

There have been outbreaks of measles in Belgium. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

More Information:

• Communicable diseases  (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• Measles immunisation service  (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Other health risks

Other health risks in Belgium are broadly similar to those in Australia.

• Coronavirus COVID-19  (Belgium Health Department)
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)  (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities is high.

Belgium and Australia have a  reciprocal healthcare agreement . You can get subsidised treatment in the Belgian public health system, including:

• medical care
• prescription drugs

To access the reciprocal health care agreement, you must present your:

• valid Medicare card
• current Australian passport or evidence that you're an Australian permanent resident

You may need to pay at the time of treatment and get reimbursed from a Belgian health insurance fund ('mutuelle').

The reciprocal health care agreement does not cover treatment in:

• private medical facilities
• public facilities as a private patient

If you're a private patient, you must pay for any treatment, services or medicine you receive.

• The reciprocal health care agreement doesn't replace the need for travel insurance.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Laws relating to drugs are similar to those of Australia. Possession of drugs and trafficking of drugs are serious offences.

You must carry your passport or a Belgian government-issued ID at all times.

It's illegal to wear clothing that largely or completely hides your face in public places (parks, buildings, public transport, on the street). Wearing such clothing risks a fine and/or detention for up to 7 days.  There's no exemption for tourists. 

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

Belgium recognises dual nationality.

• Dual nationals
• Possessing several nationalities  (Kingdom of Belgium)

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa conditions

Belgium is a part of the  Schengen area , along with many other European countries. This means you can enter Belgium without a visa in some cases.

In other situations, get a visa before you travel.

Always carry your passport when you cross borders, even in the  Schengen area .

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Other formalities

Increased security measures are in force at international airports and train stations.

Carry your passport when you enter or exit Belgium, even by road or rail.

Contact your airline or travel agent for updates or check-in requirements.

• Belgian Foreign Affairs website

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Also, go to the nearest police station to:

• report the crime
• get a declaration of theft

This may be useful for any insurance claims.

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

Belgium's currency is the Euro.

ATMs are widely available.

If you're travelling between Belgium and a non-EU country, declare currency of 10,000 euros or more or equivalent. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You'll be fined if you don't declare currency or give incorrect information on entry or exit.

You don't need to declare currency if you're travelling to or from another EU country.

Local travel

Driving permit.

For short visits, you'll need both:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• a valid Australian driver's licence

Car rental companies may require both documents.

You must be at least 18 years old to drive in Belgium.

If you register as a resident with a local commune, you'll need to change your Australian driver's licence for a Belgian licence.

Communes usually require the date of issue of your Australian licence. If your licence doesn't show this, contact your state or territory licensing authority for official notice that states the date of issue.

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety are very good throughout the country. The 'priority to the right' system is in effect in Belgium. 

Drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections. This is often a surprise to foreign drivers and results in accidents.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check that your travel insurance policy covers you when riding a motorbike.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use licensed, official taxis.  Assaults  and  robberies  have occurred in unlicensed taxis.

Targets for unlicensed taxis include high-traffic destinations, such as:

• other tourist locations

Rideshare options are available. Taxis can be booked via the Uber app.

Public transport

Pickpockets operate on intercity and international trains.

Pay close attention to valuables and your passport on trains and other forms of public transport.

Check  Belgian Rail  for bookings and any service interruptions.

• Transport and getting around safely

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

See  Belgium's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Contact the nearest police station if it isn't an emergency.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Brussels

Level 7, Avenue des Arts/Kunstlaan 56 1000 Brussels, Belgium Phone: (+32 2) 286 0500 Email: [email protected] Website:  belgium.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Australian Embassy, Brussels Twitter:  @ AustraliaEU

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Visitors must pass a security screening. Don't bring luggage with you.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Belgium?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Learn about your destination

Take 90 seconds for safer travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

Enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Travel advice

In this section you will find all the important information when travelling abroad.

Please consult our French, Dutch or German section for more information. The travel advice section is only available in French or Dutch .

See our page dedicated to COVID-19

Travel documents

To travel abroad, you need to be in possession of official travel documents. 

Belgian in distress

Belgians in distress.

Despite all your precautions, you get into a distress situation abroad. What to do?

Assistance in case of crisis

In the event of a natural disaster, calamity or accident involving a large number of Belgians, the crisis centre of the FPS Foreign Affairs is activated.

Belgian or European consular assistance

On this page you will find all the information about Belgian or European consular assistance.

17 tips for sustainable travel

There is no ingenious code of conduct for sustainable travel. A lot depends on the context, but in any case respect for people and planet take priority. Here are 17 tips to help you on the right path.

Travellers Online

Travelling abroad? Register now!

Useful links

• National Crisis Center
• FPS Public Health
• FPS Economy
• Tropical Medicine in Antwerp (Wanda)
• European Union
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• Reopen.europa.eu

Embassies and consulates

On this page you will find the addresses of Belgian embassies and consulates abroad, as well as the addresses of foreign embassi...

For Belgians abroad

On this page you will find all consular information if you are Belgian and live abroad.

© 2024 FPS Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation

Last verified: Wednesday, 17. April 2024 at 08:01 AM

Belgium Travel Advisory

• Western Europe
• Belgium Travel Advice

We advise caution when travelling to Belgium

Local situation: 3.0 / 5.

We advise caution when travelling to Belgium. We detected travel advisories from 7 sources for this specific country.

Regional Situation: 2.9 / 5

Belgium shares a land border with 4 neighbouring states. For this region of countries (including Belgium), the Advisory Index is 2.9 (average value over all countries). All countries have some reported advisories: Netherlands (3.3), Germany (3), France with 3 and Luxembourg with 2.3 (of 5).

Current informationen on Covid-19 in Belgium

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Belgium. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET).

There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Belgium.

Source: www.ecdc.europa.eu

Advice scoring history for Belgium

Chart of the risk level over that last 200 days. This is the daily calculated travel risk for Belgium.

Chart of the number of sources over that last 200 days. This is the daily number of advisory sources (of any rating) that have been active on that day.

Note: Changes happening on the 28th/29th of July 2019 are related to a change in the software and number of sources processed.

Rating Details (single travel warnings)

These are the individual advisories published by other countries about the destination Belgium from a travellers perspective. The scoring of all messages combined is the foundation for the current rating 3.0 out of 5.0 .

This is the general advisory usually covering the country as a whole.

Advisory issued by: New Zealand

Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to the ongoing threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4). 

Source: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/belgium

Advisory issued by: United States

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to terrorism. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Belgium. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, ...

Source: http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/belgium-travel-advisory.html

Advisory issued by: Finland

Iaktta normal försiktighet - Belgien är ett tryggt resmål. Liksom i andra europeiska länder, kan risken för terrordåd inte uteslutas. Belgien har höjt terrorhotnivån till en trea på en skala från ett till fyra. Detta kan leda till extra säkerhetsåtgärder. Var försiktig och följ myndigheternas meddelanden.

Source: https://um.fi/resemeddelande/-/c/BE

Advisory issued by: Canada

The Canadian goverment suggests: Exercise a high degree of caution.

Source: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/belgium

Individual rating changes for Belgium

This is the recent history of individual changes of travel advices that affected the total asessment of Belgium. Most recent events first.

Changes from August 14th 2020

The total rating for Belgium changed from 3.6 to 3.8 . Here are the influencing details:

The Danish government increased their existing warning for Belgium to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from August 7th 2020

The total rating for Belgium changed from 3.4 to 3.6 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government increased their existing warning for Belgium to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +2.0).

Changes from April 9th 2020

The total rating for Belgium changed from 3.1 to 3.4 . Here are the influencing details:

The Austrian government issued a new warning for Belgium with a rating of 5.0.

Changes from March 22nd 2020

The total rating for Belgium changed from 3.0 to 3.1 . Here are the influencing details:

The Canadian government increased their existing warning for Belgium to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 18th 2020

The total rating for Belgium changed from 2.7 to 3.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government increased their existing warning for Belgium to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by +1.0).

The Irish government increased their existing warning for Belgium to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 14th 2020

The total rating for Belgium changed from 2.5 to 2.7 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government issued a new warning for Belgium with a rating of 4.0.

Changes from March 8th 2020

The total rating for Belgium changed from 2.3 to 2.5 . Here are the influencing details:

The Danish government increased their existing warning for Belgium to 3.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from September 25th 2019

The total rating for Belgium changed from 0.0 to 0.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Danish government issued a new warning for Belgium with a rating of 2.0.

The Finnish government issued a new warning for Belgium with a rating of 2.0.

The Irish government issued a new warning for Belgium with a rating of 3.0.

The New Zealand government issued a new warning for Belgium with a rating of 2.0.

The Canadian government issued a new warning for Belgium with a rating of 3.0.

The United States government issued a new warning for Belgium with a rating of 2.0.

About Belgium

Belgium with its capital Brussels is a country in Europe (Western Europe), about the size of Maryland (30,510 km²). The country is located Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between France and the Netherlands. The climate can be described as temperate; mild winters, cool summers; rainy, humid, cloudy. The landscape is flat coastal plains in northwest, central rolling hills, rugged mountains of Ardennes Forest in southeast. With a population of about 10.4 million citizens.

Belgian flag

Introduction Video

Basic Statistics and Facts

Environmental problems and natural hazzards.

These are problems Belgium is facing. Environmental issues refer to damages of the nature due to industry and society. Natural hazzards refer to potential dangers originating in nature.

Environmental problems

• air and water pollution also have repercussions for neighboring countries
• dense transportation network
• extensive animal breeding and crop cultivation
• intense pressures from human activities: urbanization

Natural hazzards

• flooding is a threat along rivers and in areas of reclaimed coastal land, protected from the sea by concrete dikes

Top Industries and Agricultural Products

These are the main product industries and agricultural products of Belgium. This list indicates what this country is good at producing.

• base metals
• engineering
• metal products
• motor vehicle assembly
• pharmaceuticals
• processed food

Agriculture products

• fresh vegetables
• sugar beets

Belgian Imports and Exports

These are the main product categories of imports and exports to and from Belgium.

Export products

• finished diamonds

Import products

• oil products
• raw diamonds
• raw materials
• transportation equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current travel advisory for belgium.

Belgium is currently rated at 3,0 out of a possible 5.0. Collected from 7 official sources. We advise caution when travelling to Belgium.

Is it safe to travel Belgium in 2024?

Visiting the country Belgium is usually fine. The score is at 3,0 Just keep an eye open, obey local rules and you'll most likely be fine.

How many travel advisories do you know for Belgium?

We currently evaluate 11 official sources each morning. Today, we know of active advisories from 7 individual sources for Belgium.

What is the current Corona virus situation in Belgium?

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Belgium. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET). There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Belgium.

What is the size of Belgium?

Belgium has a size of 30,510 km² or 11,780 mi² which is about the size of Maryland.

Common Frequently Asked Questions

For non-country specific questions, please check our global F.A.Q.

Travel safety map for Belgium and bordering countries.

If you want to embed Belgium travel warning information into your website or application, check out these tools.

• Is Belgium safe to travel?
• What's the safety situation in Belgium?
• Are there security warnings for Belgium?

2020-03-10: Integrated data from European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (COVID-19/ SARS-CoV-2/ Coronavirus).

2019-09-01: Added timeline charts for risk level and number of advisories.

2019-07-29: Added two more sources (Finland and Denmark). Affects country ratings.

2019-07-15: South-Sudan was missing and was added today.

2019-05-18: Performance improvements for API users.

2019-03-23: Introduced professional API with more data.

2019-02-13: Added three more sources (Cyprus, Ireland and Malta). Affects country ratings.

Current travel advisories for Belgium

Hinweis: der Gesamtscore für dieses Land gibt aktuell einen falschen Wert aus. Bitte prüft die Quellen. Note: the total score for this country shows a wrong value. Please check the sources.

Last Update: Wednesday, 17. April 2024 at 08:01

• World Overview
• Western Europe

We advice caution when travelling to Belgium.

Current situation : 3 / 5, bordering countries: 2.9 / 5.

Belgium shares land borders with 4 neighbouring states. For this country, the Danger Index is 2.9 (average value for all countries). All countries habe been reported as somehow dangerous: Netherlands (3.3), Germany (3.0), France with (3.0) and Luxembourg with (2.3 of 5). See danger map of the region.

Current informationen on Covid-19

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control currently reports of no cases of COVID-19 (infection with SARS-CoV-2 or Coronavirus).

Source: www.ecdc.europa.eu

Single advisories / travel warnings

New zealand government.

Quelle: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/belgium

National warning: This advisory covers the whole country.

Brief summary: Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to the ongoing threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4). 

Danger level: 2

Exercise increased caution / Some Risk.

US American government

Quelle: http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/belgium-travel-advisory.html

Brief summary: Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to terrorism. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Belgium. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting, music, and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Belgium.

Finnish government

Quelle: https://um.fi/resemeddelande/-/c/BE

Brief summary: Iaktta normal försiktighet - Belgien är ett tryggt resmål. Liksom i andra europeiska länder, kan risken för terrordåd inte uteslutas. Belgien har höjt terrorhotnivån till en trea på en skala från ett till fyra. Detta kan leda till extra säkerhetsåtgärder. Var försiktig och följ myndigheternas meddelanden.

Travel is usually safe. .

Canadian government

Quelle: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/belgium

Brief summary: The Canadian goverment suggests: Exercise a high degree of caution.

Danger level: 3

Exercise a high degree of caution.

If there is more than one advisory/message of a single government for a given country, it indicates regional differences in means of security for your personal health and well-being. Single messages can indicate specific regions to be safer or less safe as mentioned in the main advisory. In these cases it's advisable to consult your own governments information. Additional Disclaimer: Since the evaluation is an automated process, it can only provide first steps for your own research. Please make sure to consult the sources.

Warnindex Description

Advertising

Country information

Country flag.

Basic facts

Airports in Belgium (extern)

Frequently asked questions

This section gives some brief answers to common questions regarding travel safety in Belgium.

Is Belgium safe to travel in 2020?

We see a slighty raised risk with traveling to Belgium. The risk index is at 3 (out of 5). We recommend you check the single sources.

How many countries have issued advisories for Belgium?

We currently know of 7 countries having issued advisories for Belgium.

What countries does Belgium share land borders with?

Belgium travel warning: UK holidaymakers warned to 'remain vigilant' amid rise in organised crime and 'high threat' of terrorist attack

UK holidaymakers travelling to Belgium are being urged to "remain vigilant" due to a rise in organised crime and a "high threat" of a terrorist attack

UK tourists have been issued a travel warning for a European destination that is popular for city breaks. Belgium is just over an hour away from the UK but there are fresh warnings about violent crime and the threat of terrorism.

Holidaymakers in Belgium have been warned by the UK government to "remain vigilant" amidst the ongoing threat of organised crime. Gov.uk told UK holidaymakers: "There are regular incidents of violent crime among organised crime gangs involved in drug trafficking, particularly in Antwerp, Brussels and other large cities."

British tourists are not being specifically targeted but the advice is that they should exercise caution when visiting Belgium. Gov.uk said: "The risk mostly affects those involved in drug crime, but remain vigilant if you suspect illegal activity. Follow the advice of local authorities. There have been reports of truck and van drivers being approached at parking lots or service stations by organised crime groups and asked to smuggle products to the UK (‘window tapping’)."

If UK tourists see anything "suspicious" they have been warned to report it to the local authorities. The official website of the Federal Police reads: "The emergency number 112 is the only emergency number you can call free of charge throughout Europe if you need urgent help from the fire services, a medical team, or the police.

"If you call the emergency number 112 for the police in Belgium, you will be transferred to the emergency number 101. You may therefore waste valuable time." For emergency assistance, call 101 directly.

With regard to terrorism, the Foreign Office warns that terrorists are “very likely to carry out attacks in Belgium”. Government advised: "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times. UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack."

The Foreign Office warns that UK tourists should be “vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local authorities” adding that there “have been some high-profile terrorist attacks across Belgium.” The Foreign Office says: “The main threat is from extremists linked to Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL). Previous incidents have included fatal attacks against civilians and law enforcement”.

It warns that terrorism attacks “could be indiscriminate” including in places “frequented by foreign nationals” such as on public transport, in national and international transport hubs, in international institutions, in places of worship and in other places visited by foreigners. For further information on safety and security for Britons in Belgium, including terrorism, demonstrations and strikes, transport, laws and cultural differences, and crime, holidaymakers can consult Gov.uk

In March 2016, 32 people died and more than 300 were injured in two terrorist attacks in Brussels carried out by the Islamic State (IS). Two suicide bombers detonated bombs at Brussels Airport, and one detonated a bomb on a train leaving Maelbeek metro station in the city's European Quarter.

Travel Advice for Belgium

Going to Belgium and need to know about the latest government travel advice for Belgium? Find the updated travel advice and travel warnings for Belgium from governments around the world, here.

General Travel Advice and Warnings for Belgium

The decision to go to Belgium is your choice and you are accountable for your individual welfare whilst in Belgium.

The web content on this web page is given information only and pulled together from travel advice and warnings for Belgium by authorities worldwide to their citizens.

While we make every effort to offer you most current travel advice info, it is supplied on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied.

This owners of this website does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information given.

General Cautions You Need to Keep in Mind When Taking a Trip in Belgium

Crime – Petty criminal activities such as pick pocketing in a crowded surrounding to sexual assault and muggings do take place in larger cities of Belgium. Make sure that all your personal belongings, such as passports and other traveling documents, are safe at all times.

Terrorism – Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly cautious if attending sporting occasions and during religious holidays and various other public celebrations, as terrorists frequently make use of such celebrations to mount attacks.

Demonstrations and Protests – Demonstrations might take place. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also result in disruptions to traffic and public transport. It is in your interest of safety and security to avoid areas where demonstrations and big gatherings are taking place and follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media in Belgium for information on on-going demonstrations in Belgium.

Scams – Take caution in popular tourist locations in Belgium, where scammers target foreigners. If you have actually been scammed in Belgium, get to a safe location right away; make note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; alert the police in Belgium and get a report and if your credit card is used by the scammer call your credit card provider to report the fraud; they will likely ask for a copy of the police report to cancel the financial transaction.

Spiked Food and Drinks – Never leave food or beverages unattended or in the care of complete strangers when travelling in Belgium or anywhere else. Watch out for accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may have drugs that can put you in danger of sexual assault and robbery.

What is the entry/exit conditions for Belgium?

Every country or territory chooses who can get in or exit through its borders, in the same manner Belgium decides exactly who enter its territories. The Government of your home country can not step in on your behalf if you do not fulfill your Belgium’s entry or exit requirements.

For more information concerning the entry/exit requirement for Belgium go to visa requirements for Belgium or get the most up to date info with the visa office at the Belgian consulate in your home country.

Travel insurance coverage for Belgium

Health cover is among the main reasons travellers obtain travel insurance. It will not avoid you getting sick or hurt, though it can stop you being affected financially. Medical aid overseas can be really expensive.

You have to pay for all healthcare you obtain overseas. You can’t expect to get free or subsidised treatment through your Belgium’s public health system, like you would in your home country.

If you can’t pay, local authorities could jail you. The government from your home country can not pay you health care bill for you, loan you cash or get you out of jail.

You need travel insurance coverage for travelling to Belgium . You also need to make sure you pick a policy that is right for you.

Check out the fine print of your travel insurance policy.

Declare all pre-existing conditions to your travel insurance firm upfront. If you do not, you may void your travel insurance coverage.

Inform your travel insurance company the activities you plan to do, prior to you go. Many common activities like snowboarding are excluded in standard plans. You might need to pay added.

Check if you have complimentary credit card travel insurance policy. Some cards include travel insurance policy cover. Nonetheless, they usually have different conditions than paid policies. Understand the differences.

If you’re going to Belgium from a country that has a reciprocal health care arrangement, you still require travel medical insurance. Agreements are restricted in what they’ll will cover.

If you have an incurable health problem, you might not have the ability to obtain standard travel insurance policy. However you may be able to find a specialised insurance provider that covers you for health, mishaps or property issues unassociated to your health problem. Speak to your insurance company to learn.

Find out more about getting global travel insurance policy for Belgium before you go.

© 2021 Government Travel Advice

• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked