travel to belgium restrictions

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

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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 .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Belgium travel advice

Latest updates: Entry and exit requirements – added information on temporary entry under CETA

Last updated: August 30, 2024 14:17 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.

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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. Be cautious of distraction tactics employed by criminals, such as:

• spilling drinks
• engaging you in lengthy conversations
• posing odd questions
• persistent offers to assist you

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:

• don’t carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• 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

Violent crime

Incidents of violent crime are on the rise.

You should exercise increased caution due to a recent surge in violent crimes, including shootings and stabbings, in the Brussels-Capital Region and other major cities. You should remain vigilant despite local authorities’ response to these incidents and report any suspicious activities to the police.

If you find yourself in a dangerous situation:

• seek shelter immediately
• contact local authorities

Criminal gangs use ports on Belgium’s North Sea coast as a point of entry for drug trafficking and other contraband. This is particularly prevalent in Ostend and Antwerp. Clashes between rival gangs have led to violent incidents in Antwerp and its suburbs, including bombings and shootings.

Criminals do not tend to target bystanders, but there is always the risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Expect a heightened police presence in certain areas

Armed robbers and organized gangs have targeted jewellers, banks and individuals carrying cash and valuables. Use caution when using ATMs, especially after dark

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)

Strikes and pressure tactics occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport. These strikes can sometimes complicate travel and disrupt public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

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
• 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

Guide to temporary entry into Belgium under CETA 

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.

Health and safety outside Canada

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 .

Dual citizens

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 Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

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.

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Belgium set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the  Belgian Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Belgium. 

Travelling through Calais

If you’re travelling through Calais, check the  travel advice for France .

Passport validity requirements

Belgium follows Schengen area rules . Your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave the Schengen area

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements.  Renew your passport  if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area , which includes Belgium, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

The requirements for working in Belgium are different.

If you’re travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day visa-free limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days. If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years.

Make sure you get your passport stamped on entry and exit (until November 2024). 

If you’re a visitor, border guards will look at your entry and exit stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area.

If your passport is missing a stamp, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

At Belgian border control, you may also need to:

• show a return or onward ticket
• show you have enough money for your stay

Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period

To stay longer, you must meet the Belgian government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the  Belgian Embassy in the UK .

If you are in Belgium with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Belgium .

New Schengen entry requirements (planned for November 2024 onwards)

From November 2024, the new EU Entry/Exit System (EES) will start for all non-EU nationals, including British nationals, travelling in or out of the Schengen area. The Schengen area is made up of 29 European countries, 25 of which are EU Member States. The EES is a digital border system which registers non-EU visitors travelling into the Schengen area instead of stamping their passports.

You will need to have your fingerprints and your photo taken when entering the Schengen area. If you enter the Schengen area through Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, your fingerprints and photo will be taken before you leave the UK. You will also need to provide either your fingerprint or photo on exit.

You may experience longer queues at borders when the new system starts.

Read more  information on the EU Entry/Exit System .

Children aged 17 and under

Adults, including parents and guardians, who are travelling to or from Belgium with children aged 17 or under may have to provide proof of their relationship to the children they are accompanying. Carry a birth certificate or court order, particularly if you have a different surname to the children.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Belgium guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about  goods that can be brought into and taken out of Belgium . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food into Belgium

You cannot take  meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries . There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons.

Taking money into or out of Belgium

You must complete a disclosure form at customs if you’re carrying currency worth 10,000 euros or more.

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Measures taken by the National Security Council of 3 June 2020

Today, Wednesday, June 3, the National Security Council, extended to include the Ministers-President, approved the transition to Phase 3 of the phase-out plan starting on 8 June. As the daily reporting from the health authorities shows, the health indicators are encouraging. The experts have therefore given the green light to start this new phase.

This implies a radical change in approach compared to the rules that have been in force so far. After all, from now on, freedom is the rule and what is not allowed is the exception.

Any activities that are still banned are not allowed because they either involve too close contact between people or mass gatherings, or because no protocols - i.e. specific rules for a sector - have been defined yet.

This new approach must be understood at two levels. Firstly, the individual behaviour (how should I behave in light of my renewed freedom? ) and secondly, the regulatory framework applicable to organised activities (which protocols should professionals apply when organising activities?)

1. As far as individual behaviour is concerned, there are six golden rules:

• Hygiene measures remain essential.
• Outdoor activities should be favoured wherever possible. Where necessary, rooms should be adequately ventilated.
• Additional precautions should be taken for people belonging to a high-risk group. A charter is being developed for older people who do volunteer work to provide them with more clarity about the activities they can engage in safely.
• The rules regarding safety distance continue to apply, except for people within the same family, for children under the age of 12 and for people with whom there is closer contact, i.e. the extended bubble. Those who cannot respect the safety distance have to wear a mouth mask.
• It is possible to have closer contact with 10 different people every week, in addition to the family members (= extended personal bubble). This is an individual right. These 10 people can change from one week to the next.
• Group meetings are limited to a maximum of 10 people, including children. This applies to all gatherings, regardless of whether they take place at home or outdoors (e.g. in the park or at a restaurant).
• Organised sports and now also cultural activities supervised by a person in charge are limited to 20 people in June and 50 people in July, provided that the safety distance is maintained.

2. About the regulatory framework:

• All organised activities are resumed, unless the restart is planned in another phase, with protocols that protect both users and staff. These protocols are determined by the competent Minister, after consulting the GEES, in consultation with the sector and, in the case of North-South issues, with an inter-federal approach.
• The protocols will be evaluated by 1 July. If there is no protocol for a subsector, a document is placed online with the general rules that must apply as a minimum.
• Working from home is recommended where possible.

The hospitality, sports and culture industries are the main industries where important decisions have been taken.

Hospitality industry

The industry is allowed to reopen partially. Gaming halls (e.g. casinos), banqueting and reception halls will not be allowed to reopen until 1 July. As far as banqueting and reception halls are concerned, they will be allowed to operate with a maximum of 50 people present, subject to the same conditions as catering. Nightclubs are not allowed to open before the end of August, as no safety distance can be ensured.

In addition to these exceptions, all other hospitality establishments such as cafes, bars and restaurants will reopen according to a very precise protocol.

The main features of this protocol include:

• a distance of 1.50 metres between the tables
• a maximum of 10 persons per table
• each customer must remain seated at their own table
• waiters have to wear masks
• all hospitality establishments are allowed to remain open until one o'clock in the morning, just like the night shops

Cultural industry

From 8 June, cultural activities may resume without an audience present. Performances with an audience - including cinemas - can be resumed from 1 July, but only subject to specific rules regarding crowd management, such as respecting the safety distance in the audience and a maximum of 200 attendees.

Activities should be organised in such a way as to avoid gatherings of too many people, e.g. outside the venue.

When people take part in cultural and leisure activities, wearing a mask is recommended at all times.

Sporting and now also cultural activities that are organized and supervised by a person in charge are limited to 20 people in June and 50 people in July, subject to safety distances.

In these two industries - but not only those two - the very gradual reopening and associated requirements will make it more difficult to operate at a profit. At the federal and regional level, in addition to extending or adapting the generic measures to support the economy, we are currently working on a series of specific measures to help certain industries.

Sports industry

From 8 June, non-contact sports activities can be resumed, both indoor and outdoor, amateur or professional, league and training. Gyms and fitness rooms may also be reopened, subject to protocol.

• Contact sports (e.g. judo, boxing, football, etc.) should always be limited to "contactless" training.
• As far as sports facilities are concerned, the protocols will also have to be followed. Changing rooms and showers will still not be accessible.
• Swimming pools, saunas and wellness centres have to remain closed at this stage.

As far as sports are concerned, everything will be allowed again from 1 July, provided that the protocols are respected.

In both the cultural and sports industries, from 1 July, a seated audience of up to 200 people - regardless of the size of the venue - will be allowed, subject to safety distances and always in strict compliance with protocols.

Religious services

Religious worship or gatherings may be resumed on 8 June, subject to, inter alia, the following rules:

• Safety distances must be observed with a maximum of 100 persons;
• As of July, this number will be increased to 200, just like in the cultural and sports industries;
• Rituals with physical contact are still not allowed.

From 8 June, it will be possible to travel inside of Belgium with trips lasting one or more days.

From 15 June, Belgium will open its borders for travel to and from the European Union, including the United Kingdom and the four other Schengen countries (Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Iceland and Norway). However, it is up to each country to decide whether to open its borders. To know the situation in the country of destination, it is therefore advisable to consult the website of the FPS Foreign Affairs. The conditions for travel outside of Europe have yet to be defined in light of the evolution of discussions at European level.

Leisure and free time

Leisure and free time activities are permitted from 8 June, except for conferences, amusement parks and indoor playgrounds, which may only be reopened from 1 July.

Get-togethers

Cultural and leisure activities have to be organised in such a way as to avoid large gatherings. Wearing a mask is recommended at all times.

Gatherings (e.g. village fairs, village festivals, etc.) are prohibited until 1 August and may then be resumed gradually. Large-scale mass events, on the other hand, will remain prohibited until 31 August, as previously announced.

At the beginning of summer, an online evaluation tool will be made available for organisers who want to know whether they can organise an event and subject to what conditions.

Phases 4 and 5 of our phase-out strategy will take place in July and August, if the epidemiological situation permits.  

You can watch the press conference again here:  https://youtu.be/bJU2_TtpPNs?t=558

More information:

• Main website:  Info-coronavirus.be
• General number: 0800 14 689
• Press conferences: news.belgium.be

⇨  All useful links can be found here by theme

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What are the rules on travel to Belgium?

Rules on travel to Belgium are being tightened up.   A first set of tougher restrictions came into force on 21 December.   Further restrictions apply starting Christmas Day and 4 January.

Since 21 December everybody who has been abroad in a zone designated as red by the Belgian foreign ministry – at present this is virtually the whole of Europe - for over 48 hours must quarantine for seven days that ends when you have a negative corona test.   If you can show that you displayed low risk behaviour during your trip quarantine isn’t required.   This must be clear from the information you provide on the Passenger Locator Form.

Passenger Locator Forms are being more closely scrutinised.   On the basis of the information you provide on this form including the types of transport used a decision will be taken on whether or not quarantine is required.

Starting Christmas Day people travelling to Belgium for a stay in excess of 48 hours need to be able to produce a recent negative corona test on their departure. Fail to produce the document and you cannot leave for Belgium.

Starting 4 January a distinction will be made between private travel and business travel.   Business travellers won’t need to quarantine on arrival from a red zone if their Passenger Location Form shows they did not display any risky behaviour.   The Belgian economy ministry is drawing up a certificate that foreign business travellers will have to get their employer to fill in to show they are on business travel.

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Travel to Belgium

All information on travelling to Belgium: visa applications, practical information, travelling with pets, etc.

• Last updated on August 30, 2022

For any questions concerning access to Belgian territory , please consult the  FPS Interior website .

Visa for Belgium

Here you will find our tailor-made instructions for people applying for a visa in one of our U.S. consular posts.

Portal website of the federal government

On this external website, you will find useful information about moving to Belgium and about life in Belgium: finding a home, healthcare, studies, transportation, etc.

On this webpage of the Federal Public Service for Foreign Affairs, you will find general information about traveling to Belgium.

Traveling with pets (cat, dog, ferret)

On this webpage of the Embassy, we elaborate on the US and Belgian requirements when traveling to Belgium with pets.

Battle of the Bulge

On this webpage of the Embassy, we elaborate on the commemoration of the Battle of the Bulge.

© 2024 FPS Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation

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!

NOTICE September 28, 2024

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Belgium Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, belgium - level 2: exercise increased caution.

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.

If you decide to travel to Belgium:   

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Belgium.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, belgium map, search for travel advisories, external link.

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October 2021 COVID-19 Rules & Restrictions for Travelling to Belgium

Top 3 Most Sought-After EU Golden Visas by Foreign Nationals

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Belgium, known as the “heart of Europe”, is a small country with a lot to offer for travellers who enjoy sightseeing, cultural sites, and 30 world-class museums, which can be visited through a one-to-three day admission with public transport costs covered.

Furthermore, the country has more Michelin-starred restaurants than Paris, making it arguably the best food destination in Europe.

In order to enjoy the full Belgian experience, here is an extended guideline based on the government’s official information on what you need to know before booking your trip.

Who Is Allowed to Enter Belgium Without Being Quarantined?

All fully vaccinated travellers from green, orange and red countries (EU countries) with one of the European Medicines Agency authorised vaccines (Moderna, AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Janssen) and that can show the vaccination certificate upon arrival are allowed to travel to Belgium without being tested or quarantined.

As SchengenVisaInfo.com recently reported, Belgium has also recognised the CoviShield vaccine, manufactured in India by the Serum Institute of India . This decision will help those vaccinated with the jab to be released from quarantine requirements while travelling to Belgium.

Travellers presenting a recovery certificate proving they are immune to the COVID-19 virus due to the previous infection are allowed to enter Belgium under the same rules as vaccinated ones, provided the positive PCR test result is no older than 180 days.

A test certificate indicating the holder is negative for Coronavirus will also grant the traveller a quarantine-free entry to Belgium.

Belgium applies the coded colour system by region or country, based on the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) data, which gets updated weekly.

According to this list, green countries represent no risk of infection with Coronavirus. Therefore, travellers from these countries are usually allowed to enter EU countries undergoing little to no entry restrictions, SchengenNews reports.

Belgium’s green colour coded countries are all EU and Schengen Zone countries, as well as the following third countries:

• New Zealand
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

Arrivals from orange listed countries and regions are also free of entry requirements, and the orange category includes the following:

• Austria: Burgenland, Tyrol, Voralberg
• Czech Republic: Prague, Moravian-Silesian, Central Bohemia, Southwest, Northwest, Northeast, Southeast and Central Moravia
• Denmark: Capital Region of Denmark, Zealand, Southern Denmark, Greenland
• Finland: Åland
• France: Hauts-de-France, Pays de la Loire, Languedoc-Roussillon, Midi-Pyrénées, Auvergne, Rhône-Alpes, Île de France, Corse, Mayotte, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Guadeloupe, Polynésie française
• Germany: Schleswig-Holstein
• Greece: Attica, Crete, Epirus, South Aegean, Western Greece
• Hungary: Central Transdanubia, Western Transdanubia, Southern Transdanubia
• Italy: Autonomous Province of Bolzano, Veneto, Emilia-Romagna, Campania, Lazio, Sicily, Calabria, Aosta Valley, Basilicata
• Netherlands: Groningen, Drenthe, Overijssel, Gelderland, Utrecht, North Holland, Zeeland, North Brabant, Flevoland, South Holland, Friesland, Sint Eustatius, Aruba
• Norway: Innlandet, Adger and South Eastern Norway, Western Norway
• Poland: West Pomeranian Voivodeship, Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, Mazovian Voivodeship
• Portugal: North, Alto Minho, Cávado, Ave, Área Metropolitana do Porto, Alto Tâmega, Tâmega e Sousa, Douro, Terras de Trás-os-Montes, Algarve, Algarve, Center (PT), Oeste, Região de Aveiro, Região de Coimbra, Região de Leiria, Viseu Dão Lafões, Beira Baixa, Médio Tejo, Beiras e Serra da Estrela, Lisbon Metropolitan Area, Lisbon Metropolitan Area, Alentejo, Alentejo Litoral, Baixo Alentejo, Lezíria do Tejo, Alto Alentejo, Alentejo Central, Autonomous Region of the Azores
• Spain: Comunidad de Madrid, Catalonia, Baleares, Cantabria, Basque Country, Aragon, Melilla
• Sweden: Stockholm, East Middle Sweden, Småland and the islands, South Sweden, West Sweden, North Middle Sweden, Upper Norrland
• Switzerland: Lake Genova Region, Vaud, Valais, Genève, Espace Mittelland, Bern, Freiburg, Solothurn, Neuchâtel, Jura, Northwestern Switzerland, Basel-Stadt, Basel-Landschaft, Aargau, Ticino, Zürich
• Vatican City

Travellers From Which Country Are Unable to Visit Belgium Yet?

Travellers arriving from European countries in the red zone are free of quarantine if they are vaccinated, immune to the virus or tested negative for the virus in the last 72 hours. If not, they have to get tested within the first 48 hours upon arrival, and if the result is negative, the traveller is free of the quarantine requirements.

Children under 12 are not required to get tested for the virus.

Fully vaccinated arrivals and recovery certificate holders from red-listed countries have to take a COVID-19 test on the first or second day upon arrival and remain in quarantine until the test result is issued.

For unvaccinated travellers, a ten-day quarantine is required, in addition to two COVID-19 tests which have to be taken on days one and seven of the isolation period.

On the other hand, the red zones on the white list are Ukraine and Singapore, meaning that travelling for non-essential reasons to Belgium is permitted . 

The red category of EU countries and territories includes the following: 

• Austria: Lower Austria, Vienna, Upper Austria, Salzburg, Carinthia, Styria
• Bulgaria: Severozapaden/North West, Severen tsentralen/North Central, Severoiztochen/North East, Yugoiztochen/South East, Yugozapaden/South West, Yuzhen tsentralen/South Central
• Croatia: Pannonian Croatia, Adriatic Croatia, City of Zagreb, Grad Zagreb, North Croatia, Medimurska zupanija
• Denmark: Faroer
• Finland: South Finland, West Finland, Nort and East Finland, Helsinki-Uusimaa
• France: Martinique, Guyane, Saint-Martin, Nouvelle Calédonie, Saint-Barthélemy
• Germany: Stuttgart, Karlsruhe, Freiburg, Tübingen, Oberbayern, Niederbayern, Oberpfalz, Oberfranken, Mittelfranken, Unterfranken, Schwaben, Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Darmstadt, Gießen, Kassel, Braunschweig, Hanover, Lüneburg, Weser-Ems, Düsseldorf, Köln, Münster, Detmold, Arnsberg, Koblenz, Trier, Rheinhessen-Pfalz, Saarland, Dresden, Chemnitz, Leipzig, Thüringen, Sachsen-Anhalt, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
• Greece: Eastern Macedonia, Thrace, Central Macedonia, Western Macedonia, Thessaly, Ionian Islands, Peloponnese, Central Greece
• Hungary: Budapest, Pest, Northern Hungary, Northern Great Plain, Southern Great Plain
• Ireland: Northern and Western, Southern, Eastern and Midland
• Italy: Toscana, Marche
• Lithuania: Vilnius County, Cultural regions of Lithuania
• Netherlands: Curação, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Limburg
• Norway: Oslo and Viken, Trøndelag, Northern Norway
• Poland: Lublin Voivodeship, Podlaskie Voivodeship
• Romania: North West, Centre, North East, South East, South Muntenia, Bucuresti – Ilfov, South-West Oltenia, West
• Slovakia: Eastern Slovakia, Bratislava Region, Central Slovakia, Western Slovakia
• Slovenia: Eastern Slovenia, Western Slovenia
• Spain: Castilla-La Mancha
• Switzerland: Eastern Switzerland, Glarus, Schaffhausen, Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Appenzell Innerrhoden, St. Gallen, Graubünden, Thurgau, Central Switzerland, Luzern, Uri, Schwyz, Obwalden, Nidwalden, Zug

All third countries not found here are coloured as red.

What Are the Travelling Rules to Visit Belgium?

The Belgian authorities require a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) to be filled out 48 hours before arriving in the country.

The PLF requirement applies to all travellers reaching Belgium, whether it is by plane, boat, train or bus from any EU or Schengen Area country.

The testing and quarantine requirements vary depending on the traveller’s country of residence.

What About Belgium’s Vaccination Passport?

The country successfully connected to the EUDCC gateway in June, following the example set by Germany, Czechia, Greece, Denmark, Croatia, Poland and Bulgaria, who started issuing the document one month ahead of the deadline.

The EU Digital COVID-19 Vaccination Passport , which can be issued in paper and digital format, contains a QR code alongside other detailed information indicating whether the traveller has been vaccinated, tested for COVID-19 or recently recovered from the virus.

The document is being issued in a bid to facilitate travel across the EU amid the pandemic.

Furthermore, all holders of DCC are allowed to enter the country, provided 14 days have passed since the final vaccination has been administered. Moreover, for those who have a previous infection, at least 30 days must have passed since the positive test result before travelling to Belgium.

Indoor events now also use the DCC or Covid Safe Ticket, and testing requirements to enter facilities except vaccination and recovery, including PCR test, which must be taken within 72 hours. Rapid or antigen tests are not valid as they are more sensitive.

The vaccination certificate must include the personal data of the holder such as full name, birthdate, issuer, date of vaccinations, manufacturer and number of doses received.

Moreover, the recovery certificate must include a positive test result issued at least 30 days ago and is valid for 180 days or six months.

What Is Currently Open to Visit In Belgium?

The country imposes a face-covering requirement when travelling in a public transport vehicle for anyone older than 12 and participating in other public spaces where the 1.5 meters distance cannot be maintained. However, the curfew time for bars, restaurants or leisure facilities has been abolished. Only a group of eight people can sit at a table, without including minors and staff must wear masks while serving.

Travellers can attend cultural, artistic, sports and other entertaining performances and training sessions if the event is held indoors and has a maximum of 500 participants. For outdoors events, a 750 people capacity must be respected.

Furthermore, if markets and fair trades exceed a maximum capacity of 5,000 people, it must be divided into several facilities.

“If the private meeting takes place in a nightclub or dance hall, the use of the CST is therefore mandatory, given that access to nightclubs or dance halls is only possible by means of the CST. However, these maximum numbers can be exceeded as long as the conditions for larger events that do not use the Covid Safe Ticket are applied,“ the official site for Coronavirus related issues highlights.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance While Travelling to Belgium Amid Pandemic!

It is highly recommended that travellers planning to visit Belgium during COVID-19 purchase travel insurance to get a full or partial refund if their flight can be cancelled due to COVID-19 situations.

You can buy medical travel insurance protection for Belgium with economical prices from AXA Assistance or  Europ Assistance .

Current Vaccination Situation In Belgium

According to the World Health Organisation data, 1,289,033 positive cases have been registered in Belgium, four of them reported in the last 24 hours. Moreover, in recent hours, one death has been reported in Belgium, taking death rates caused by COVID-19 to 25,780.

ECDC data shows that 87.1 per cent of the adult population in Belgium has been vaccinated with the first shot of the vaccine, and 85.5 per cent of the population is fully vaccinated against the virus. Moreover, 19,783,595 have been distributed in Belgium, out of which 16,764,100 were administered to the population.

Planning to Visit Other EU Countries This Year? Here’s What to Expect

If planning to visit other European countries this year, the following guides explain everything you need to know before booking your trip:

• Travelling to Austria
• Travelling to the Netherlands
• Travelling to Greece
• Travelling to France
• Travelling to Italy
• Travelling to Spain
• Travelling to Portugal
• Travelling to Switzerland
• Travelling to Croatia

NOTE : This article was originally published on July 18. Since then, the same has been continuously updated with the most recent changes. The last changes to the article were made on October 21, 2021 in line with the most recent updates of the Belgian authorities.

• Belgium Travel Restrictions Due To Coronavirus

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Belgium launches interactive travel map detailing Covid-19 restrictions

An interactive map was launched by Belgium’s Foreign Ministry on Friday to clarify travel conditions abroad in the context of the Covid-19 health crisis.

"The aim is to make travellers understand in a few clicks where they can go, under what conditions and what the restrictions are on their return,” Foreign Affairs said.

They recognised that "the increasing number of changes in the colour codes of the various countries and their regions" made the situation "difficult to read" for the population.

Related News

• Europe-wide travel advice map with weekly updates expected soon
• Coronavirus: Belgium will lift ban on travel to red-zone destinations

By clicking on the map, people can now quickly see which colour a particular area has been assigned, namely red, orange, light orange or green.

In red zones, travel is strictly discouraged or banned by the local authorities.

For orange zones, Belgium asks for increased vigilance and a test and quarantine recommended on return.

Light orange zones are areas where local authorities impose a test or quarantine on travellers from Belgium.

Finally, green zones are free to travel to while keeping up rules of hygiene and social distancing.

The map can be consulted here .

The Brussels Times

Copyright © 2024 The Brussels Times. All Rights Reserved.

Belgium Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from South Africa to Belgium

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

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, new zealand, philippines, united arab emirates, united kingdom, united states, 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 South Africa?

Most visitors from South Africa, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belgium.

Can I travel to Belgium if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from South Africa can enter Belgium without restrictions.

Can I travel to Belgium without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from South Africa can enter Belgium without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Belgium?

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

Can I travel to Belgium without quarantine?

Travellers from South Africa 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 .

Belgium Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Singapore to Belgium

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

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, philippines, puerto rico, south korea, united kingdom, united states, 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 Singapore?

Most visitors from Singapore, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belgium.

Can I travel to Belgium if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Singapore can enter Belgium without restrictions.

Can I travel to Belgium without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Singapore can enter Belgium without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Belgium?

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

Can I travel to Belgium without quarantine?

Travellers from Singapore 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 .