Travel Guide: Uk To Belgium

If you're a UK citizen with a British passport, you can travel to Belgium without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Your passport must be less than 10 years old from the date of issue and valid for at least three months after you plan to leave Belgium. There are currently no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Belgium. However, you may need to show proof of a return or onward ticket and sufficient funds for your stay. It is important to be aware of the local laws, customs, and safety advice when travelling to Belgium.

Passport requirements

As a UK citizen, you will need a valid passport to travel to Belgium. Belgium follows the Schengen area rules, which means that your passport must meet the following requirements:

• The 'date of issue' must be less than 10 years before the date you arrive in Belgium. If you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years old.
• The passport must have an 'expiry date' of at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave the Schengen area.

Please note that if you are travelling with a child or someone under 18, you may have to provide proof of your relationship with them. It is recommended that you carry a birth certificate, especially if you have a different surname from them.

Since Brexit, UK travel document holders are required to have a Schengen Visa (but not an airport transit visa). If you are a holder of a blue travel document (Conventions of Geneva 1951) issued by the United Kingdom, you will need a Schengen visa (type C) to travel to Belgium. However, if you are only transiting through the airport and not leaving the international zone at Brussels Airport, you do not need an airport visa (type A). If you hold a red travel document (Conventions of New York 1954) issued by the United Kingdom, you will need a Schengen visa. If you hold a black travel document (Certificate of Identity) issued by the United Kingdom, please note that this travel document is not recognised by the Benelux authorities.

Belgian citizens travelling to the UK will need a valid passport for short stays from 1 October 2021. From 2 April 2025, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will be compulsory for all Belgian travellers wishing to visit the UK for a short stay of up to 6 months.

Travel options

If you're a UK citizen travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport, you can travel to Belgium without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Your passport must be less than 10 years old from the date of issue and valid for at least three months after you plan to leave Belgium. Irish citizens do not require a visa to enter Belgium either, but they will need a valid passport or passport card.

You can travel to Belgium by plane, train, bus or car. If you're travelling by Eurostar, you can take a direct train from London St Pancras International to Brussels in around two hours. There are also indirect trains to Brussels from London that involve changing trains in Paris. These journeys usually take between three and four hours. It's worth noting that there may be delays due to maintenance work, engineering works, or technical issues.

If you're travelling by bus, there are several coach companies offering services between London and Brussels, with journey times ranging from six to eleven hours.

For those who prefer to fly, there are direct flights available from several UK airports to Brussels Airport. The flight time is typically one hour and twenty minutes.

Finally, if you're considering driving to Belgium, you can take a ferry or the Eurotunnel to cross the English Channel. The drive from London to Brussels is approximately 200 miles and will take around four hours.

Safety and security

Belgium is a beautiful country to visit, but it's important to be aware of potential safety and security concerns to ensure a smooth trip. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attacks globally, including in Belgium. These attacks could target foreign nationals and might occur in places like transport hubs, cultural events, government buildings, and religious sites. The Belgian government has set the national threat level at 3 'Serious', so you can expect increased police presence and additional security measures. Stay vigilant and follow local authorities' advice.

Demonstrations and Strikes

Demonstrations and strikes frequently occur in major Belgian cities, particularly in transport hubs and the Schuman area (EU quarter) in Brussels. While most demonstrations are peaceful, some have escalated into violence and unrest. These events can cause severe travel disruptions and may be announced with little notice. Stay informed about local news and follow the instructions of authorities to ensure your safety.

Theft and Violent Crime

Be cautious of theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas, major railway stations, and on public transportation. Violent crimes have been reported around train stations and in large cities like Brussels and Antwerp. Keep your belongings secure, and never leave your luggage unattended. Motorbike thieves have been known to break into cars at traffic lights, so be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Laws and Cultural Differences

As a visitor to Belgium, it's important to respect their laws and cultural differences. You must carry your passport with you at all times. It is illegal to wear clothing that partially or completely hides your face in public places, and this law applies to everyone, including tourists.

Drugs

Possession and trafficking of illegal drugs are serious offences in Belgium and can result in prison sentences or fines.

Battlefields

If you plan to visit World War I battlefields in northwest Belgium, exercise caution. Stay on designated footpaths, and if you come across any munitions or shells, do not approach them. Report any such incidents to the police immediately.

Driving

Driving laws in Belgium differ from those in the UK. Be aware of speed limits and police enforcement. Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless you're using hands-free equipment. Belgium has a high accident rate, largely due to speeding. Always carry the necessary documentation when driving, including your driving licence, car registration, insurance, MOT certificate, and your passport.

Entry Requirements

Ensure your passport is valid and will remain so for at least three months after your planned departure from the Schengen area, which includes Belgium. You may be denied entry if your passport does not meet these requirements. Additionally, you may need to show proof of sufficient funds for your stay and a return or onward ticket.

In summary, while Belgium is a wonderful destination, staying vigilant and informed about potential safety and security issues will help ensure you have a pleasant journey. Follow local authorities' advice, stay aware of your surroundings, and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Travel insurance

• A minimum of $50,000 in Medical Emergency/Hospitalisation Coverage
• A minimum of $300,000 of Medical Evacuation/Repatriation Coverage
• The company providing this coverage must have offices located in Europe

As Belgium is part of the Schengen Area, its travel insurance requirements are identical to the other member countries. Obtaining Schengen Visa travel insurance will allow freedom of movement and travel insurance coverage for travellers within all 29 Schengen Area nations.

Although Belgium and the Schengen Area only require travel medical insurance with coverage for emergency medical treatment and evacuation, a policy with travel-related benefits is highly recommended for all travellers. Depending on the plan, benefits may include coverage for travel interruptions, weather-related delays, luggage loss or damage, and much more.

The price of travel insurance for Belgium is largely determined by the type of coverage, duration of the trip, number of travellers, and age of the traveller(s). The addition of more benefits or higher coverage limits generally comes with a higher price.

If you are travelling with family or friends, you can add up to 10 people to your policy, even if they do not live with you. You can also take out cover for trips to long-haul destinations.

If you are a UK citizen, you can get medically necessary state healthcare in Belgium with a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). However, a GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. You may have costs that your GHIC or EHIC does not cover, including:

• Changes to travel and accommodation bookings
• Additional standard costs for treatment
• Medical repatriation to the UK
• Treatment that is ruled non-urgent

It is important to ensure that your travel insurance covers your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Local laws and customs

When travelling to Belgium from the UK, it is important to be aware of the local laws and customs to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Identification

According to Belgian law, you must carry some form of identification with you at all times. Make sure your passport meets the requirements and keep it on you when exploring the country. Belgium follows the Schengen area rules, which means your passport must be issued less than 10 years before the date of your arrival, and it should have an expiry date at least 3 months after your planned departure from the Schengen area.

Face Coverings

It is illegal to wear clothing that largely or completely hides your face in public places, including parks, buildings, public transport, and streets. This includes items such as the burka and niqab, and the law applies to everyone, including tourists. Those who do not comply may face a fine of up to €137.50 and/or detention for up to 7 days.

Prohibited Items

When entering Belgium, be mindful of the items that are prohibited or restricted. You must declare certain goods, such as alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and perfume, and there may be limits on the quantity you can bring. Drugs, weapons, protected animals, and plants are strictly prohibited. Additionally, you must declare if you are carrying €10,000 or more in cash when travelling within or outside the EU.

Food and Drink Restrictions

When travelling to Belgium, you cannot bring meat, milk, or products containing them. However, there are exceptions for medical reasons, such as powdered infant milk, infant food, or special pet food. Check the European Commission website for detailed information on bringing food and drink into the EU.

Customs Procedures

When arriving in Belgium, pay attention to the customs procedures at the airport. If you have something to declare, use the red exit, and if you have nothing to declare, follow the green exit. Customs officers will inspect the import and export of certain goods, so it is important to be aware of the regulations to avoid any issues.

By familiarising yourself with these local laws and customs, you can ensure a smooth entry into Belgium and have a pleasant trip without unintentionally breaking any rules.

Frequently asked questions