Source: European Union/Re-open EU
10.11.2021
What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Mandatory travel documentation
All travellers entering this country must fill in a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) withing 6 months before their arrival in Belgium, even if they are fully vaccinated.
Important: to determine the quarantine measures, the PLF will take into consideration the areas where you have been in the 14 days before travelling. If the zones have changed colour, measures will apply retroactively.
You must ALWAYS fill in the PLF in the following cases:
- You are travelling to Belgium by air or by sea
- You are travelling to Belgium by train or bus from a country outside the EU or the Schengen area (e.g., Eurostar from the UK)
- You have stayed in a very hight risk country during the last 14 days
Entry requirements depend on the colour attributed to the country of departure, according to Belgium’s own national classification of risk areas: green, orange or red areas.
Children below 12 years are exempt from quarantine and testing requirements.
Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate
Belgium accepts the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC).
Travellers arriving from "green" or "orange" zones, with or without a EUDCC, are not subject to testing or quarantine requirements.
Travellers arriving from a "red" zone, and holding a EUDCC, are exempted from further testing and quarantine requirements only if their EUDCC contains either:
- a certificate of full vaccination
The vaccination is considered to be completed (full) 14 days after taking the second dose (or 14 days after the single dose for vaccines requiring 1 dose only). For people who had been previously infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the vaccination is considered to be completed also after a single dose of a vaccine requiring 2 doses - a certificate of recovery from Covid-19, valid between 11 and 180 days from the date of a positive PCR test
- a pre-departure PCR test taken no earlier than 72 hours prior to arrival. Residents in Belgium and persons of Belgian nationality can replace the pre-departure PCR test by a PCR test taken within 48 hours from arrival, by remaining in self-isolation while waiting for the test result.
All travellers from an EU "red zone”, who do not have a vaccination or recovery certificate, must present a pre-departure negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. Belgian residents can get tested on day 1 or 2 after the arrival in Belgium and must undergo a quarantine while waiting for the result. If the test is negative, they can end the quarantine. A second test must be taken on day 7. If any of these tests is positive, an isolation of 10 days must be observed.
Brussels Region applies stricter rules: all travellers coming from a red area and not holding a EUDCC must, in addition to the tests obligations, respect a mandatory quarantine of 10 days. The quarantine can be shorted if the result of the test taken on day 7 after arrival is negative.
Children under 12 years old are exempted from the testing requirement.
When arriving from a very high-risk country inside the European Union or Schengen Area, people who do not have a certificate of full vaccination must present a test certificate and take a PCR test on day 7 after their arrival in Belgium.
Residents in Belgium must perform a PCR test on day 1 or 2 of their arrival in Belgium, and get tested again on day 7. Quarantine is mandatory, until the test result is known.Important: Belgium has developed a national COVID certificate, the “Covid Safe Ticket” (CST) that allows access to various places and activities in the country without any restriction (restaurants, movie theaters etc.). There are three different types of certificates that prove you are Covid-safe:
- A vaccination certificate proves that you have been fully vaccinated against the Covid-19 virus (prior to 2 weeks)
- A test certificate proves that you have taken a negative Covid-10 test (less than 48 hours)
- A recovery certificate shows that you have recovered from Covid-19 after a previous positive Covid-19 test (less than 6 months)
The Covid Safe Ticket could be extended by regional authorities. More information on: https://covidsafe.be
Different rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region. For more information, check https://visit.brussels/en/ e CST is required. More information on:https://www.wallonie.be/fr/actualites/coronavirus-covid-19-mesures-regionales
Measures for Flanders are available on:https://www.vlaanderen.be/evenementen-met-covid-certificaat-als-toegangsvoorwaarde-het-covid-safe-ticket
Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements
The Belgian Government has introduced a traffic light system of "green", "orange", "red" and "very high-risk" zones. Belgium's classification isupdated every Sunday and is valid from the Monday immediately following. It is based on the data and criteria communicated by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) every Thursday. Each country is given a colour code (red, orange, green). The measures applicable to travel to Belgium depend on the colour code assigned to each country. In addition to the colour code, countries of origin may also be classified as “very high-risk" zones, to which additional stricter measures apply. From 19 July 2021 stricter rules can apply to travellers coming from EU and Schengen associated countries characterised by high rates of variants of concern, regardless of the colour classification.
Find out the current colour code assigned by Belgium to each country.
The country or region has to be classified "orange" or "green" for at least 14 days, without being classified as “very high-risk” zone, before being exempted from the requirements applied to "red" zones and “very high-risk” zones.
ALSO: Travellers can access Belgium if they fill in the Passenger Location Form (PLF) within 6 months before their arrival in Belgium, even if they are fully vaccinated.
Are a coronavirus test or quarantine required?
All travellers from an EU "red zone”, who do not have a vaccination or recovery certificate, must present a test certificate prior to arrival. Belgian residents can get tested on day 1 or 2 after the arrival in Belgium and must undergo a quarantine while waiting for the result. If the test is negative, they can end the quarantine. A second test must be taken on day 7. If any of these tests is positive, a quarantine of 10 days must be observed.
When arriving from an EU or Schengen associated country with high rates of variants of concern, regardless of their colour classification, people who have not been fully vaccinated for at least 2 weeks must present a test certificate before arrival, or on day 1 after the arrival for Belgian residents (in this case, a quarantine must be observed while waiting for the results). If the test is negative, they can end the quarantine. A second test must be taken on day 7. If any of these tests is positive, a quarantine of 10 days must be observed. More information on inbound travel exemptions because of the “essential reasons” is available at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/countries-with-high-risk/
Important: Check your Belgium national COVID certificate at www.covidsafe.be to be able to access specific places (restaurants, theatres etc ) without any restriction.
Find out more:
diplomatie.belgium.be
www.info-coronavirus.be
Arriving in Belgium
Documents you need to travel in Europe
Health cover for temporary stays
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Non-essential travel to countries outside the European Union and the Schengen Area is strongly discouraged. Depending on the epidemiological situation, the country or zone of origin is classified as 'green', 'orange', 'red' or 'very high-risk' zone, and different measures apply.
Non-EU countries are considered to be 'red zones', unless they are included in the Council's list of countries* for which COVID-19 travel restrictions should be lifted (Annex I of Council Recommendation (EU) 2020/912 of 30 June 2020). This list is updated every two weeks by the Council of the EU.
* Some of the countries listed in the Annex I are considered 'red' by Belgium. These are Singapore and Ukraine. Non-essential travel to Belgium from these third countries is still allowed, but travellers must respect the following measures: all travellers who do not have a vaccination or recovery certificate, must present a pre-departure negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. Belgian residents can get tested on day 1 or 2 after the arrival in Belgium and must undergo a quarantine while waiting for the result. If the test is negative, they can end the quarantine. A second test must be taken on day 7. If any of these tests is positive, a quarantine of 10 days must be observed.
Brussels Region applies stricter rules: all travellers coming from a red area and not holding a EUDCC must, in addition to the tests obligations, respect a mandatory quarantine of 10 days. The quarantine can be shorted if the result of the test taken on day 7 after arrival is negative.
For more information, check: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/redcountrieswhitelist/
Non-essential travel to Belgium from non-EU 'red zones' is prohibited for people who are neither nationals of the EU, nor of a country that is part of the Schengen Area, and who have their primary residence in a non-EU 'red zone' (third countries not listed in Annex I to Council Recommendation), except for fully vaccinated individuals with a recognised vaccination certificate.
Authorised travellers from a 'red zone' outside the European Union who can present a recognised European or Belgian certificate of vaccination or recovery certificate must get tested on day 1 or day 2 after their arrival in Belgium. If the result is negative the quarantine is lifted. This does not apply to children under the age of 12. Authorised travellers who do not have a vaccination or recovery certificate must quarantine for 10 days and get tested on days 1 and 7 after their arrival.
More information on essential travels on: www.info-coronavirus.be - FAQ
In addition, an entry ban applies to non-EU countries classified as 'very high-risk' zones. People who have been in these countries during the past 14 days can travel to Belgium only if they meet one of the exceptions listed on www.info-coronavirus.be/en/countries-with-high-risk/.
Belgians and Belgian residents travelling from a non-EU 'very high-risk' zone - even if holding a valid EUDCC and fully vaccinated - are subject to a mandatory 10-day quarantine and PCR test on day 1 and day 7 from entry. People without a valid EUDCC certificate must present a negative test certificate. This applies also if the stay in the country has been of less than 48h.
Some countries of origin are exempt from the quarantine obligation, see https://www.info-coronavirus.be for further details.
Non-nationals and non-residents of Belgium, who have stayed in a 'very high-risk' zone (with variants of concern) in the last 14 days - even if holding a valid EUDCC - can enter Belgium only in the case of 'travels for essential reasons'. A negative test certificate or an EU Digital COVID Certificate are required. A mandatory 10-day quarantine and PCR test on day 1 and day 7 from entry will also apply. If the second test is negative, the quarantine is lifted.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form in advance.
There is an exception when the person is travelling by specific travel means and staying less than 48 hours abroad, or less than 48 hours in Belgium. Persons who travel to Belgium by boat or plane are always obliged to fill in the Passenger Locator Form. The same applies to people who travel to Belgium by train or bus from outside the EU or Schengen area. This exception does not apply to travellers from 'very high-risk' zones, who are always required to fill-in the form.
Find out more:
Colour codes by country
Mandatory form for travel to Belgium
Info coronavirus
Contact Point
For any questions concerning the measures applicable to arrival in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/ and contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected].
May I transit this country?
Transit is considered essential travel and is therefore allowed. Travellers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a statement indicating the reason of their journey (more information and the form can be found at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
All persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
Transit by air
Travellers who only transit by air and who only enter the transit zone are not required to present a negative test. However, these travellers are required to show a negative test certificate before arriving in Belgium if this is needed to travel on to the final destination.
Transit by land
From within the EU+ area, if you will be spending less than 48 hours in Belgium and if you are not travelling by air or boat, no PCR test is required. The same applies also to cross-border workers. For people arriving in Belgium with their own vehicle, random checks may be carried out at the borders.
From outside the EU+ area, if you will be spending less than 48 hours in Belgium and if you are not travelling by air, boat, train or bus, no PCR test is required.
General measures
The latest measures are available at www.info-coronavirus.be
Belgium has developed a national COVID certificate, the “Covid Safe Ticket” (CST). This is proof (via a QR code) of a complete vaccination (prior to 2 weeks), a negative PCR test (less than 48 hours old) or a recovery certificate (less than 6 months). The Covid Safe Ticket is requested for specific activities in the country, and its use could be extended by regional authorities. More information on: https://covidsafe.be
Different rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region. For more information, check: https://visit.brussels/en/ and https://www.commissioner.brussels/en
Wallonia has defined specific situations in which the CST is required. More information on: https://www.wallonie.be/fr/actualites/coronavirus-covid-19-mesures-regionales
Measures for Flanders are available on: https://www.vlaanderen.be/evenementen-met-covid-certificaat-als-toegangsvoorwaarde-het-covid-safe-ticket
Use of facemasks
Wearing a mask is no longer compulsory outdoors unless a distance of 1.5 meters cannot be respected and unless different restrictions apply.
From the age of 12, wearing a face mask remains mandatory on public transport, in stations and airports, in care settings, in medical and non-medical contact professions (for all staff and customers), during events (e.g. cultural performances, sports competitions, sports training sessions and conferences) with more than 500 people indoors.
In catering establishments such as bars and restaurants, facemasks are mandatory when moving or doing recreational activities, but can be removed when seated at a table.
Masks are no longer required in publicly accessible areas of companies, public authorities or associations, and private events and parties with less than 500 people indoors and 750 people outdoors, unless there is a different decision from the local authority.
These obligations constitute a federal basis that applies to the entire country. Regional authorities may foresee stricter obligations if the epidemiological situation requires it.
Stricter rules apply in Brussels Capital Region. For more information, check: https://visit.brussels/en/article/coronavirus-info-state-of-play-brussels https://www.commissioner.brussels/en/updates-covid-19/item/877-20-august-new-stage-of-the-summer-plan
Physical Distancing
Wearing a mask and keeping a safe distance of 1.5 m remain recommended.
Stricter rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region. For more information, check: https://visit.brussels and https://www.commissioner.brussels
Indoor and outdoor meetings, public or private gatherings and events
Restrictions on receiving people at home are lifted.
Religious ceremonies are allowed with no restrictions on the number of participants, but it is compulsory to wear a face mask. Stricter rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region, where a maximum number of 200 people indoors and 400 people outdoors can attend ceremonies.
Stricter rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region, where a maximum number of 200 people indoors and 400 people outdoors can attend ceremonies.
Open-air manifestations and events are allowed with no limit on the maximum number of participants; however, wearing a facemask and keeping a distance of 1.5 metres from other people remain mandatory, apart from when people are seated.
The restrictions on activities in an organised context, such as those organised by a club or association, are lifted.
Conference venues are open. Professional meetings are allowed.
The restrictions on buffets and dancing at private parties, including weddings, are lifted. This does not apply to the Brussels Capital Region, where receptions, parties and banquets are allowed up to 250 persons (and applying the same sanitary rules as the horeca sector).
Funfairs are allowed. For more than 5000 visitors, a one-way traffic system must be put in place with separate entrances and exits. Face masks are mandatory and social distancing and hygiene rules must be followed.
For public events (including sports events), restrictions on events with less than 500 spectators indoors and less than 750 spectators outdoors are removed, unless the relevant local authority decides otherwise. This does not apply to the Brussels Capital Region, where the restrictions remain.
For events between 500 and 3,000 participants indoors, and between 750 and 5,000 participants outdoors, participants can choose to use the Covid Safe Ticket as a condition of access. If the CST is not used, the requirements concerning face masks, social distancing and the use of CIRM and CERM online tools (Covid Infrastructure Risk Model/Covid Events Risk Model) must be applied.
The use of the Covid Safe Ticket (CST) is mandatory for indoor events with more than 3,000 participants, and outdoor events with more than 5,000 participants.
For more information on the specific rules that apply to the Brussels Capital Region, check: https://visit.brussels
Safety measures for public transportation
Public transport users who are 12 years of age or older are obliged to cover their mouths and noses by wearing a facemask. This applies from the moment they enter the airport, station, at stops or on the platform, train or other means of transport organised by a public authority. Public transport drivers are not required to cover their nose and mouth if they are well-isolated in a cabin. Taxis are allowed to transport customers provided that a minimum distance of 1.5 metres is maintained between each person, apart for people belonging to the same bubble. It is recommended to regularly ventilate and clean the vehicle and to wear a mouth and nose covering.
Places of worship
OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS
Places of worship and public buildings are open, restrictions on funerals are lifted, but the obligation to wear a mask will be maintained.
Stricter rules apply the in Brussels Capital Region, where a maximum of 200 people indoors, or 400 people outdoors, excluding children up to the age of 12 as well as the civil registrar and the minister of religion, may attend the following activities:
- civil marriages;
- cremations, without the possibility of the body to be exposed;
- congregational worship and the collective practice of non-denominational moral services and of activities within a philosophical association
Groups of 8 must be respected, apart from children up to the age of 12 and people living under the same roof.
Quarantine
The following rules for isolation/quarantine are in place:
1. Period of isolation for people who received a positive PCR test
For patients with a positive PCR test and having symptoms, isolation may be stopped at the earliest 10 days after the first symptoms appeared, AND after 3 days without fever, as well as improvement of respiratory condition. You should stay in a separate room as much as possible, wear a face mask to protect other people in the house, and ask someone to take care of your groceries.
For persons with a positive PCR test without symptoms, the 10 days isolation period begins from the day the test has been performed.
2. Quarantine period for high-risk contacts
All persons who are high-risks contacts, including fully vaccinated people, must be tested on day 1 and day 7. The period begins on the day of the last high-risk contact, or the last day of travel in a high-risk territory (for people considered as high-risk contacts according to the self-assessment). For people who are not fully vaccinated, a quarantine of 10 days is mandatory. The quarantine period may be reduced to 7 days in case of negative result to a PCR test performed no earlier than on day 7 of the quarantine.
You should stay in quarantine at the same place all the time, and maintain social distance from other people, including your household members. It is advised not to go into quarantine in a household that includes people with an increased chance of serious disease. Visitors from outside the household are not allowed. It is not allowed to physically attend work or school. You should be available for contact with the health authorities at all times. You can only leave your place of quarantine for urgent medical care, or urgent legal/financial affairs. If you get ill with Covid-19 disease, all members of your household are high-risk contacts.
The website of the Belgian health authorities Sciensano offers more information in Dutch, French and German
It also offers a document with FAQ (in Dutch)
Non-essential (other than medicine and food) shops
OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS
Non-essential shops are open. Wearing a face mask is mandatory. Safety measures apply (avoid crowding inside and outside the shop, disinfect hands).
Stricter rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region, where night shops are open until 1:00.
Tourist accommodations
OPEN
Accommodations (hotels, B&B's etc.) are open. The same applies to indoor and outdoor swimming pools, where community protocols regulate access and the general organisation. Spa and wellness centres are open, as well as holiday parks (campsites, bungalow parks).
Hotel restaurants can provide room service meals for hotel guests.
Catering establishments
OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS
Some restrictions (e.g. opening and closing times, the limit on the number of people at the table, the distance between groups of people at the table, noise levels and bar service) will be abolished. In addition, it is no longer compulsory to provide seating only. It is still compulsory to wear a facemask when moving around in a restaurant or bar.
Stricter rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region, where restaurants, bars and cafés are open from 5:00 to 1:00. Clients are allowed both indoors and on open terraces. A maximum of 8 people per table is allowed, children up to the age of 12 not included. An entire household can share a table. Facemasks are not mandatory when seated at the table. Takeaway services are permitted until 1.00. Hotel restaurants can provide room service meals for hotel guests. Buffets are allowed with specific measures.
Cinemas, museums and indoor attractions
OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS
Museums are open with a reservation system. Cinemas, theatres, concert halls, casinos and party halls are open with a specific protocol.
Dancing in pubs is allowed. Night clubs and dance halls can also reopen, provided that the Covid Safe Ticket is used and adequate air quality and ventilation are provided in line with stricter protocols.
Personal care services
OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS
Non-medical close-contact professions, including hairdressers and beauticians, are open under tightened protocols.
Outdoors areas and beaches
OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS
In Brussels, a safety label has been developed to reassure visitors that the site, venue or establishment in question is safe. The criteria for receiving such a label are based on checklists drawn up on the basis of specific protocols, developed in close cooperation with sectoral entities and representatives.
More on Brussels: Visit Brussels
Information for the other regions is available at:
Health protocols for Flanders (in Dutch)
Health protocols for Wallonia (in French)
Health protocols for tourism services and tourists
In Brussels, a safety label has been developed to reassure visitors that the site, venue or establishment in question is safe. The criteria for receiving such a label are based on checklists drawn up on the basis of specific protocols, developed in close cooperation with sectoral entities and representatives.
More on Brussels: Visit Brussels
Information for the other regions is available at:
Health protocols for Flanders (in Dutch)
Health protocols for Wallonia (in French)
Other measures
More information on the measures applicable in Belgium can be found at info-coronavirus.be
____________________________________________________________________
03.09.2021
What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form within 48 hours before arriving in Belgium. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception for people staying in Belgium for less than 48 hours, or returning to Belgium after a stay abroad inferior to 48 hours. Persons who travel to Belgium by boat or plane are always obliged to fill in the Passenger Locator Form.
The obligations of testing and quarantine depend on the colour of the area of origin (green / orange / red). However, from 19 July 2021 stricter rules can apply to travellers coming from EU and Schengen associated countries characterised by high rates of variants of concern (“very high-risk” zones), regardless of their colour classification.
More information and the form can be found at https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/
Contact Point for Belgium
If you have any questions regarding the Passenger Locator Form, the COVID-19 test, and the obligation of quarantine in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be and, if needed, contact the FPS Public Health on +32 (0)2 524.97.97 or send an e-mail to [email protected]
Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate
Belgium accepts the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC).
Travellers arriving from "green" or "orange" zones, with or without a EUDCC, are not subject to testing or quarantine requirements.
Travellers arriving from a "red" zone, and holding a EUDCC, are exempted from further testing and quarantine requirements if their EUDCC contains either:
- a certificate of full vaccination
The vaccination is considered to be completed (full) 14 days after taking the second dose (or 14 days after the single dose for vaccines requiring 1 dose only). For people who had been previously infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the vaccination is considered to be completed also after a single dose of a vaccine requiring 2 doses - a certificate of recovery from Covid-19, valid between 11 and 180 days from the date of a positive PCR test
- a pre-departure PCR test taken no earlier than 72 hours prior to arrival. Residents in Belgium and persons of Belgian nationality can replace the pre-departure PCR test by a PCR test taken within 48 hours from arrival, by remaining in self-isolation while waiting for the test result.
All travellers returning from a "red" area, not holding an EUDCC, should be tested when arriving in Belgium, on day 1 or day 2. Non-residents in Belgium must present a pre-departure PCR test taken no earlier than 72 hours prior to arrival.
Children under 12 years old are exempted from the testing requirement.
When arriving from a very high-risk country inside the European Union or Schengen Area, people who do not have a certificate of full vaccination must present a pre-departure PCR test, taken no earlier than 72 hours prior to arrival, and take a PCR test on day 7 after their arrival in Belgium.
Residents in Belgium must perform a PCR test on day 1 or 2 of their arrival in Belgium, and get tested again on day 7. Quarantine is mandatory, until the test result is known.
Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements
The Belgian Government has introduced a traffic light system of "green", "orange", "red" and "very high-risk" zones. Belgium's classification is updated every Sunday and is valid from the Monday immediately following. It is based on the data and criteria communicated by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) every Thursday. Each country is given a colour code (red, orange, green). The measures applicable to travel to Belgium depend on the colour code assigned to each country. In addition to the colour code, countries of origin may also be classified as “very high-risk" zones, to which additional stricter measures apply. From 19 July 2021 stricter rules can apply to travellers coming from EU and Schengen associated countries characterised by high rates of variants of concern, regardless of the colour classification.
Find out the current colour code assigned by Belgium to each country.
The country or region has to be classified "orange" or "green" for at least 14 days, without being classified as “very high-risk” zone, before being exempted from the requirements applied to "red" zones and “very high-risk” zones.
Are a coronavirus test or quarantine required?
All travellers from an EU "red zone”, who do not have a vaccination or recovery certificate, must present a pre-departure negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. Belgian residents can get tested on day 1 or 2 after the arrival in Belgium and must undergo a quarantine while waiting for the result. If the test is negative, they can end the quarantine.
When arriving from an EU or Schengen associated country with high rates of variants of concern, regardless of their colour classification, people who have not been fully vaccinated for at least 2 weeks must get a PCR test either within 72 hours before arrival or on day 1 after the arrival for Belgian residents, as well as on day 7, and quarantine while waiting for the result.
More information on inbound travel exemptions because of the “essential reasons” is available at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/countries-with-high-risk/
Find out more:
diplomatie.belgium.be
www.info-coronavirus.be
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Non-essential travel to countries outside the European Union and the Schengen Area is strongly discouraged. Depending on the epidemiological situation, the country or zone of origin is classified as "green", "orange", "red" or "very high-risk" zone, and different measures apply.
Third countries are considered to be "red zones”, unless they are listed in Annex I of Council Recommendation (EU) 2020/912 of 30 June 2020 (Albania, Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Hong Kong, Israël, Japan, Jordan, Kosovo, Lebanon, Macao, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, New Zealand, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Ukraine, USA, China, subject to confirmation of reciprocity), for which the travel restrictions have temporarily been lifted. This list is updated every two weeks by the Council of the EU.
For more information, please check: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/colour-codes-by-country/.
Non-essential travel to Belgium from non-EU “red zones” is prohibited for people who are neither nationals of the EU, nor of a country that is part of the Schengen Area, and who have their primary residence in a non-EU ”red zone” (third countries not listed in Annex I to Council Recommendation), except for fully vaccinated individuals with a recognised vaccination certificate.
Authorised travellers from a "red zone" outside the European Union who can present a recognised European or Belgian certificate of vaccination or recovery certificate must get tested on day 1 or day 2 after their arrival in Belgium. If the result is negative the quarantine is lifted. This does not apply to children under the age of 12. Authorised travellers who do not have a vaccination or recovery certificate must quarantine for 10 days and get tested on days 1 and 7 after their arrival.
More information on essential travels on: www.info-coronavirus.be - FAQ
In addition, an entry ban applies to non-EU countries classified as "very high-risk" zones. People who have been in these countries during the past 14 days can travel to Belgium only if they meet one of the exceptions listed on www.info-coronavirus.be/en/countries-with-high-risk/.
Belgians and Belgian residents travelling from a non-EU “very high-risk" zone - even if holding a valid EUDCC and fully vaccinated - are subject to a mandatory 10-day quarantine and PCR test on day 1 and day 7 from entry. People without a valid EUDCC certificate must present a negative PCR test result of less than 72 hours. This applies also if the stay in the country has been of less than 48h.
Some countries of origin are exempt from the quarantine obligation, see https://www.info-coronavirus.be for further details.
Non-nationals and non-residents of Belgium, who have stayed in a “very high-risk" zone (with variants of concern) in the last 14 days - even if holding a valid EUDCC - can enter Belgium only in the case of "travels for essential reasons”. A pre-departure negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival or an EU Digital COVID Certificate are required. A mandatory 10-day quarantine and PCR test on day 1 and day 7 from entry will also apply. If the second test is negative, the quarantine is lifted.
Finally, as from 28 April 2021, people who were in Brazil, South Africa or India at any time during the past 14 days, are prohibited to travel directly or indirectly to Belgium, provided that they do not have Belgian nationality or do not have their main residence in Belgium, with the exception of essential journeys. (www.info-coronavirus.be).
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form in advance. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception when the person is travelling by specific travel means and staying less than 48 hours abroad, or less than 48 hours in Belgium. Persons who travel to Belgium by boat or plane are always obliged to fill in the Passenger Locator Form. The same applies to people who travel to Belgium by train or bus from outside the EU or Schengen area. This exception does not apply to travellers from “very high-risk” zones, who are always required to fill-in the form.
Find out more:
Colour codes by country
Mandatory form for travel to Belgium
Info coronavirus
Contact Point
For any questions concerning the measures applicable to arrival in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/ and contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected].
May I transit this country?
Yes
Transit is considered essential travel and is therefore allowed. Travellers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a statement indicating the reason of their journey (more information and the form can be found at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
All persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
Transit by air
Travellers who only transit by air and who only enter the transit zone are not required to present a negative test. However, these travellers are required to show a negative test result before arriving in Belgium if this is needed to travel on to the final destination.
Transit by land
From within the EU+ area, if you will be spending less than 48 hours in Belgium and if you are not travelling by air or boat, no PCR test is required. The same applies also to cross-border workers. For people arriving in Belgium with their own vehicle, random checks may be carried out at the borders.
From outside the EU+ area, if you will be spending less than 48 hours in Belgium and if you are not travelling by air, boat, train or bus, no PCR test is required.
May I fly to this country?
Essential travel for persons whose main residence is in third countries considered as “red” zones, and who are not EU/Schengen citizens or residents, must be accompanied by an essential travel certificate issued by the Belgian diplomatic or consular post.
All persons traveling to Belgium by airplane must fill in a Passenger Locator Form within the 48 hours before their arrival in Belgium and non-residents must present the result of a negative PCR-test (carried out at the earliest 72 hours before departure for Belgium).
People travelling from South Africa, Brazil and India must always complete a PLF.
You can find the latest information on air travel regulations for this country on the IATA website.
You can also find information about air passenger rights on our portal for citizens.
General measures
The latest measures are available at info-coronavirus.be
From 1st September, different rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region. For more information, check: visit.brussels and www.commissioner.brussels
Use of facemasks
Wearing a mask is no longer compulsory outdoors unless a distance of 1.5 meters cannot be respected and unless different restrictions apply.
From the age of 12, face masks are mandatory in public transport (including at stops and stations), in shops and shopping centres, cinemas, theatres, concert and conference venues, auditoria, places of worship, museums, libraries, justice buildings, markets, flea markets and funfairs, public buildings for the parts accessible to the public, in catering establishments, in shopping streets, for close-contact professions and their customers, during manifestations and in all crowded private and public spaces, and when it is not possible to maintain a physical distancing of 1.5 meters.
In catering establishments such as bars and restaurants, facemasks are mandatory when moving or doing recreational activities, but can be removed when seated at a table.
Masks are no longer required in publicly accessible areas of companies, public authorities or associations, and in the cultural, festive, sports, recreational and event sector for private events and parties with less than 200 people indoors and 400 people outdoors, unless the local authority decides differently.
Stricter rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region. For more information, check: https://visit.brussels and https://www.commissioner.brussels
Physical Distancing
Wearing a mask and keeping a safe distance of 1.5 m remain recommended.
Stricter rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region. For more information, check: https://visit.brussels and https://www.commissioner.brussels
Indoor and outdoor meetings, public or private gatherings and events
Restrictions on receiving people at home are lifted.
Stricter rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region, where a maximum of 8 persons can be invited at home. Children up to the age of 12 are not included in the limit. A 1,5 metres distance must be kept (excluding your close contacts).
Religious ceremonies are allowed with no restrictions on the number of participants, but it is compulsory to wear a face mask.
Stricter rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region, where a maximum number of 200 people indoors and 400 people outdoors can attend ceremonies.
Open-air manifestations and events are allowed with no limit on the maximum number of participants; however, wearing a facemask and keeping a distance of 1.5 metres from other people remain mandatory, apart from when people are seated.
Public events (including sports events) are allowed with a maximum of 5000 people (outdoors), and 3000 people (indoors).
The restrictions on activities in an organised context, such as those organised by a club or association, are lifted.
Conference venues are open. Professional meetings are allowed.
The restrictions on buffets and dancing at private parties, including weddings, are lifted. This does not apply to the Brussels Capital Region, where receptions, parties and banquets are allowed up to 250 persons (and applying the same sanitary rules as the Horeca sector).
Funfairs are allowed. For more than 5000 visitors, a one-way traffic system must be put in place with separate entrances and exits. Face masks are mandatory and social distancing and hygiene rules must be followed.
For the events sector, restrictions on events with less than 200 spectators indoors and less than 400 spectators outdoors will be removed, unless the relevant local authority decides otherwise. This does not apply to the Brussels Capital Region, where the restrictions remain in force.
For events with more than 200 spectators indoors and more than 400 spectators outdoors, the Covid Safe Ticket can be used from 1 September. In this case, the requirements concerning facemasks, social distancing and the use of CIRM and CERM online tools (Covid Infrastructure Risk Model/Covid Events Risk Model) will be waived. The CST is available for the following categories:
- People who have been fully vaccinated for at least 2 weeks;
- People providing a negative PCR test less than 48 hours old (antigenic tests are not accepted);
- People providing a certificate proving that they recovered from Covid-19.
For more information on the specific rules that apply to the Brussels Capital Region, check: https://visit.brussels
Safety measures for public transportation
Public transport users who are 12 years of age or older are obliged to cover their mouths and noses by wearing a facemask. This applies from the moment they enter the airport, station, at stops or on the platform, train or other means of transport organised by a public authority. Public transport drivers are not required to cover their nose and mouth if they are well-isolated in a cabin. Taxis are allowed to transport customers provided that a minimum distance of 1.5 metres is maintained between each person, apart for people belonging to the same bubble. It is recommended to regularly ventilate and clean the vehicle and to wear a mouth and nose covering.
Places of worship
Open with limitations
Places of worship and public buildings are open, restrictions on funerals are lifted, but the obligation to wear a mask will be maintained.
Stricter rules apply the in Brussels Capital Region, where a maximum of 200 people indoors, or 400 people outdoors, excluding children up to the age of 12 as well as the civil registrar and the minister of religion, may attend the following activities:
- civil marriages;
- cremations, without the possibility of the body to be exposed;
- congregational worship and the collective practice of non-denominational moral services and of activities within a philosophical association
Groups of 8 must be respected, apart from children up to the age of 12 and people living under the same roof.
Quarantine
The following rules for isolation/quarantine are in place:
1. Period of isolation for people who received a positive PCR test
For patients with a positive PCR test and having symptoms, isolation may be stopped at the earliest 10 days after the first symptoms appeared, AND after 3 days without fever, as well as improvement of respiratory condition. You should stay in a separate room as much as possible, wear a face mask to protect other people in the house, and ask someone to take care of your groceries.
For persons with a positive PCR test without symptoms, the 10 days isolation period begins from the day the test has been performed.
2. Quarantine period for high-risk contacts
The quarantine period for high-risk contacts who are not being tested is 10 days. The period begins on the day of the last high-risk contact. The quarantine period begins the last day of travel in a high-risk territory (for people considered as high-risk contacts according to the self-assessment).
The quarantine period may be reduced to 7 days in case of negative result to a PCR test performed no earlier than on day 7 of the quarantine.
You should stay in quarantine at the same place all the time, and maintain social distance from other people, including your household members. It is advised not to go into quarantine in a household that includes people with an increased chance of serious disease. Visitors from outside the household are not allowed. It is not allowed to physically attend work or school. You should be available for contact with the health authorities at all times. You can only leave your place of quarantine for urgent medical care, or urgent legal/financial affairs. If you get ill with Covid-19 disease, all members of your household are high-risk contacts.
The website of the Belgian health authorities Sciensano offers more information in Dutch, French and German
It also offers a document with FAQ (in Dutch)
Non-essential (other than medicine and food) shops
Open with limitations
Non-essential shops are open. Wearing a face mask is mandatory. Safety measures apply (avoid crowding inside and outside the shop, disinfect hands). Night shops are open.
Stricter rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region, where night shops are open until 1:00.
Tourist accommodations
Open
Accommodations (hotels, B&B's etc.) are open. The same applies to indoor and outdoor swimming pools, where community protocols regulate access and the general organisation. Spa and wellness centres are open, as well as holiday parks (campsites, bungalow parks).
Hotel restaurants can provide room service meals for hotel guests.
Catering establishments
Open with limitations
Some restrictions (e.g. opening and closing times, the limit on the number of people at the table, the distance between groups of people at the table, noise levels and bar service) will be abolished. In addition, it is no longer compulsory to provide seating only. It is still compulsory to wear a facemask when moving around in a restaurant or bar.
Stricter rules apply in the Brussels Capital Region, where restaurants, bars and cafés are open from 5:00 to 1:00. Clients are allowed both indoors and on open terraces. A maximum of 8 people per table is allowed, children up to the age of 12 not included. An entire household can share a table. Facemasks are not mandatory when seated at the table. Takeaway services are permitted until 1.00. Hotel restaurants can provide room service meals for hotel guests. Buffets are allowed with specific measures.
Cinemas, museums and indoor attractions
Open with limitations
Museums are open with a reservation system. Cinemas, theatres, concert halls, casinos and party halls are open with a specific protocol. Discotheques and nightclubs remain closed.
Personal care services
Open with limitations
Non-medical close-contact professions, including hairdressers and beauticians, are open under tightened protocols.
Outdoors areas and beaches
Open with limitations
In Brussels, a safety label has been developed to reassure visitors that the site, venue or establishment in question is safe. The criteria for receiving such a label are based on checklists drawn up on the basis of specific protocols, developed in close cooperation with sectoral entities and representatives.
More on Brussels: Visit Brussels
Information for the other regions is available at:
Health protocols for Flanders (in Dutch)
Health protocols for Wallonia (in French)
Health protocols for tourism services and tourists
In Brussels, a safety label has been developed to reassure visitors that the site, venue or establishment in question is safe. The criteria for receiving such a label are based on checklists drawn up on the basis of specific protocols, developed in close cooperation with sectoral entities and representatives.
More on Brussels: Visit Brussels
Information for the other regions is available at:
Health protocols for Flanders (in Dutch)
Health protocols for Wallonia (in French)
Other measures
More information on the measures applicable in Belgium can be found at info-coronavirus.be
National website with coronavirus-related information for TOURISM
________________________________________________________________________
18.08.2021
What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form within 48 hours before arriving in Belgium. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception for people staying in Belgium for less than 48 hours, or returning to Belgium after a stay abroad inferior to 48 hours. Persons who travel to Belgium by boat or plane are always obliged to fill in the Passenger Locator Form.
The obligations of testing and quarantine depend on the colour of the area of origin (green / orange / red). However, from 19 July 2021 stricter rules can apply to travellers coming from EU and Schengen associated countries characterised by high rates of variants of concern (“very high-risk” zones), regardless of their colour classification.
More information and the form can be found at https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/
Contact Point for Belgium
If you have any questions regarding the Passenger Locator Form, the COVID-19 test, and the obligation of quarantine in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be and, if needed, contact the FPS Public Health on +32 (0)2 524.97.97 or send an e-mail to [email protected]
Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate
Belgium accepts the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC).
Travellers arriving from "green" or "orange" zones, with or without a EUDCC, are not subject to testing or quarantine requirements.
Travellers arriving from a "red" zone, and holding a EUDCC, are exempted from further testing and quarantine requirements if their EUDCC contains either:
- a certificate of full vaccination
The vaccination is considered to be completed (full) 14 days after taking the second dose (or 14 days after the single dose for vaccines requiring 1 dose only). For people who had been previously infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the vaccination is considered to be completed also after a single dose of a vaccine requiring 2 doses - a certificate of recovery from Covid-19, valid between 11 and 180 days from the date of a positive PCR test
- a pre-departure PCR test taken no earlier than 72 hours prior to arrival. Residents in Belgium and persons of Belgian nationality can replace the pre-departure PCR test by a PCR test taken within 48 hours from arrival, by remaining in self-isolation while waiting for the test result.
All travellers returning from a "red" area, not holding an EUDCC, should be tested when arriving in Belgium, on day 1 or day 2. Non-residents in Belgium must present a pre-departure PCR test taken no earlier than 72 hours prior to arrival.
Children under 12 years old are exempted from the testing requirement.
When arriving from a very high-risk country inside the European Union or Schengen Area, people who do not have a certificate of full vaccination must present a pre-departure PCR test, taken no earlier than 72 hours prior to arrival, and take a PCR test on day 7 after their arrival in Belgium.
Residents in Belgium must perform a PCR test on day 1 or 2 of their arrival in Belgium, and get tested again on day 7. Quarantine is mandatory, until the test result is known.
Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements
The Belgian Government has introduced a traffic light system of "green", "orange", "red" and "very high-risk" zones. Belgium's classification is updated every Sunday and is valid from the Monday immediately following. It is based on the data and criteria communicated by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) every Thursday. Each country is given a colour code (red, orange, green). The measures applicable to travel to Belgium depend on the colour code assigned to each country. In addition to the colour code, countries of origin may also be classified as “very high-risk" zones, to which additional stricter measures apply. From 19 July 2021 stricter rules can apply to travellers coming from EU and Schengen associated countries characterised by high rates of variants of concern, regardless of the colour classification.
Find out the current colour code assigned by Belgium to each country.
The country or region has to be classified "orange" or "green" for at least 14 days, without being classified as “very high-risk” zone, before being exempted from the requirements applied to "red" zones and “very high-risk” zones.
Are a coronavirus test or quarantine required?
All travellers from an EU "red zone”, who do not have a vaccination or recovery certificate, must present a pre-departure negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. Belgian residents can get tested on day 1 or 2 after the arrival in Belgium and must undergo a quarantine while waiting for the result. If the test is negative, they can end the quarantine.
When arriving from an EU or Schengen associated country with high rates of variants of concern, regardless of their colour classification, people who have not been fully vaccinated for at least 2 weeks must get a PCR test either within 72 hours before arrival or on day 1 after the arrival for Belgian residents, as well as on day 7, and quarantine while waiting for the result.
More information on inbound travel exemptions because of the “essential reasons” is available at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/countries-with-high-risk/
Find out more:
diplomatie.belgium.be
www.info-coronavirus.be
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Non-essential travel to countries outside the European Union and the Schengen Area is strongly discouraged. Depending on the epidemiological situation, the country or zone of origin is classified as "green", "orange", "red" or "very high-risk" zone, and different measures apply.
Third countries are considered to be "red zones”, unless they are listed in Annex I of Council Recommendation (EU) 2020/912 of 30 June 2020 (Albania, Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Hong Kong, Israël, Japan, Jordan, Kosovo, Lebanon, Macao, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, New Zealand, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Ukraine, USA, China, subject to confirmation of reciprocity), for which the travel restrictions have temporarily been lifted. This list is updated every two weeks by the Council of the EU.
For more information, please check: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/colour-codes-by-country/.
Non-essential travel to Belgium from non-EU “red zones” is prohibited for people who are neither nationals of the EU, nor of a country that is part of the Schengen Area, and who have their primary residence in a non-EU ”red zone” (third countries not listed in Annex I to Council Recommendation), except for fully vaccinated individuals with a recognised vaccination certificate.
Authorised travellers from a "red zone" outside the European Union who can present a recognised European or Belgian certificate of vaccination or recovery certificate must get tested on day 1 or day 2 after their arrival in Belgium. If the result is negative the quarantine is lifted. This does not apply to children under the age of 12. Authorised travellers who do not have a vaccination or recovery certificate must quarantine for 10 days and get tested on days 1 and 7 after their arrival.
More information on essential travels on: www.info-coronavirus.be - FAQ
In addition, an entry ban applies to non-EU countries classified as "very high-risk" zones. People who have been in these countries during the past 14 days can travel to Belgium only if they meet one of the exceptions listed on www.info-coronavirus.be/en/countries-with-high-risk/.
Belgians and Belgian residents travelling from a non-EU “very high-risk" zone - even if holding a valid EUDCC and fully vaccinated - are subject to a mandatory 10-day quarantine and PCR test on day 1 and day 7 from entry. People without a valid EUDCC certificate must present a negative PCR test result of less than 72 hours. This applies also if the stay in the country has been of less than 48h.
Some countries of origin are exempt from the quarantine obligation, see https://www.info-coronavirus.be for further details.
Non-nationals and non-residents of Belgium, who have stayed in a “very high-risk" zone (with variants of concern) in the last 14 days - even if holding a valid EUDCC - can enter Belgium only in the case of "travels for essential reasons”. A pre-departure negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival or an EU Digital COVID Certificate are required. A mandatory 10-day quarantine and PCR test on day 1 and day 7 from entry will also apply. If the second test is negative, the quarantine is lifted.
Finally, as from 28 April 2021, people who were in Brazil, South Africa or India at any time during the past 14 days, are prohibited to travel directly or indirectly to Belgium, provided that they do not have Belgian nationality or do not have their main residence in Belgium, with the exception of essential journeys. (www.info-coronavirus.be).
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form in advance. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception when the person is travelling by specific travel means and staying less than 48 hours abroad, or less than 48 hours in Belgium. Persons who travel to Belgium by boat or plane are always obliged to fill in the Passenger Locator Form. The same applies to people who travel to Belgium by train or bus from outside the EU or Schengen area. This exception does not apply to travellers from “very high-risk” zones, who are always required to fill-in the form.
Find out more:
Colour codes by country
Mandatory form for travel to Belgium
Info coronavirus
Contact Point
For any questions concerning the measures applicable to arrival in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/ and contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected].
May I transit this country?
Yes
Transit is considered essential travel and is therefore allowed. Travellers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a statement indicating the reason of their journey (more information and the form can be found at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
All persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
Transit by air
Travellers who only transit by air and who only enter the transit zone are not required to present a negative test. However, these travellers are required to show a negative test result before arriving in Belgium if this is needed to travel on to the final destination.
Transit by land
From within the EU+ area, if you will be spending less than 48 hours in Belgium and if you are not travelling by air or boat, no PCR test is required. The same applies also to cross-border workers. For people arriving in Belgium with their own vehicle, random checks may be carried out at the borders.
From outside the EU+ area, if you will be spending less than 48 hours in Belgium and if you are not travelling by air, boat, train or bus, no PCR test is required.
Source: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/BEL/7004
______________________________________________________________________________
21.07.2021
What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form within 48 hours before arriving in Belgium. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception for people staying in Belgium for less than 48 hours or returning to Belgium after a stay abroad inferior to 48 hours. Persons who travel to Belgium by boat or plane are always obliged to fill in the Passenger Locator Form and the same applies also to travellers from “very high-risk" zones.
The obligations of testing and quarantine depend on the colour of the area of origin (green / orange / red / very high risk). However, from 19 July 2021 stricter rules can apply to travellers coming from EU and Schengen associated countries characterised by high rates of variants of concern, regardless of the colour classification.
More information and the form can be found at https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/
Contact Point for Belgium
If you have any questions regarding the Passenger Locator Form, the COVID-19 test, and the obligation of quarantine in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be and, if needed, contact the FPS Public Health on +32 (0)2 524.97.97 or send an e-mail to [email protected]
Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate
Belgium accepts the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC).
Travellers arriving from "green" or "orange" zones, with or without a EUDCC, are not subject to testing or quarantine requirements.
Travellers arriving from a "red" zone, and holding a EUDCC, are exempted from further testing and quarantine requirements if their EUDCC contains either:
- a certificate of full vaccination
The vaccination is considered to be completed (full) 14 days after taking the second dose (or 14 days after the single dose for vaccines requiring 1 dose only). For people who had been previously infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the vaccination is considered to be completed also after a single dose of a vaccine requiring 2 doses
- a certificate of recovery from Covid-19, valid between 11 and 180 days from the date of a positive PCR test
- a pre-departure PCR test taken no earlier than 72 hours prior to arrival. Residents in Belgium and persons of Belgian nationality can replace the pre-departure PCR test by a PCR test taken within 48 hours from arrival, by remaining in self-isolation while waiting for the test result.
All travellers returning from a "red" area, not holding an EUDCC, should be tested when arriving in Belgium, on day 1 or day 2.
Children under 12 years old are exempted from the testing requirement.
When arriving from an EU or Schengen associated country with high rates of variants of concern, regardless of their colour classification, people who have not been fully vaccinated for at least 2 weeks must quarantine for 10 days and get a PCR test either within 72 hours before arrival or on day 1 after the arrival, as well as on day 7. If the second test is negative, the quarantine can be lifted.
Travellers arriving from a "very high-risk" zone (with variants of concern):
Non-nationals and non-residents in Belgium, who have stayed in a "very high-risk" zone (with variants of concern) in the last 14 days - even if holding a valid EUDCC - are prohibited from entering Belgium, with the exception of essential travel authorised for transport personnel and diplomats.
Belgians and Belgian residents who have stayed in a "very high-risk" zone (with variants of concern) in the last 14 days - even if holding a valid EUDCC and fully vaccinated - are subject to mandatory 10-day quarantine and PCR test on day 1 and day 7 from entry.
Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements
The Belgian Government has introduced a traffic light system of very "green", "yellow", "red" and "very high-risk" zones. Belgium's classification is updated every Sunday and is valid from the Monday immediately following. It is based on the data and criteria communicated by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) every Thursday. Each country is given a colour code (red, orange, green). The measures applicable to travel to Belgium depend on the colour code assigned to each country. In addition to the colour code red, countries of origin may also be classified as “very high-risk" zones, to which additional stricter measures apply. From 19 July 2021 stricter rules can apply to travellers coming from EU and Schengen associated countries characterised by high rates of variants of concern, regardless of the colour classification.
Find out the current colour code assigned by Belgium to each country
The country or region has to be classified "orange" or "green" for at least 14 days before being exempted from the requirements applied to "red" zones.
Are a coronavirus test or quarantine required?
All travellers from an EU "red" zone, who do not have a vaccination or recovery certificate, must present a pre-departure negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. If they do not have a pre-departure negative PCR test, they can get tested on day 1 or 2 after the arrival in Belgium and must undergo a quarantine while waiting for the result. If the test is negative, they can end the quarantine.
When arriving from an EU or Schengen associated country with high rates of variants of concern, regardless of their colour classification, people who have not been fully vaccinated for at least 2 weeks must quarantine for 10 days and get a PCR test either within 72 hours before arrival or on day 1 after the arrival, as well as on day 7. If the second test is negative, the quarantine period can be lifted.
Belgians and Belgian residents travelling from a “very high-risk" zone (with variants of concern) - even if holding a valid EUDCC and fully vaccinated - are subject to a mandatory 10-day quarantine and PCR test on day 1 and day 7 from entry. If the second test is negative, the quarantine is lifted.
Non-nationals and non-residents of Belgium, who have stayed in a “very high-risk" zone (with variants of concern) in the last 14 days - even if holding a valid EUDCC - can enter Belgium only in the case of "travels for essential reasons”. A pre-departure negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival or an EU Digital COVID Certificate are required. A mandatory 10-day quarantine and PCR test on day 1 and day 7 from entry will also apply. If the second test is negative, the quarantine is lifted.
More information on inbound travel exemptions because of the “essential reasons” is available at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/countries-with-high-risk/
Find out more:
diplomatie.belgium.be
www.info-coronavirus.be
Documents you need to travel in Europe
Health cover for temporary stays
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Non-essential travel to countries outside the European Union and the Schengen Area is strongly discouraged. Depending on the epidemiological situation, the country or zone of origin is classified as "green", "orange", "red" or "very high-risk", and different measures apply.
Third countries are considered to be "red" zones, unless they are listed in Annex I of Council Recommendation (EU) 2020/912 of 30 June 2020 (Albania, Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Hong Kong, Israël, Japan, Jordan, Kosovo, Lebanon, Macau, Montenegro, New Zealand, Katar, Moldova, Macedonia, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, USA, China, subject to confirmation of reciprocity), for which the travel restrictions have temporarily been lifted. This list is updated every two weeks by the Council of the EU.
For more information, please check: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/colour-codes-by-country/.
Non-essential travel to Belgium from non-EU “red zones” is prohibited for people who are neither nationals of the EU, nor of a country that is part of the Schengen Area, and who have their primary residence in a non-EU ‘red zone” (third countries not listed in Annex I to Council Recommendation), except for fully vaccinated individuals with a recognised vaccination certificate as from 1 July 2021.
Authorised travellers from a "red zone" outside the European Union who can present a recognised European or Belgian certificate of vaccination or recovery certificate must get tested on day 1 or day 2 after their arrival in Belgium. If the result is negative the quarantine is lifted. This does not apply to children under the age of 12. Authorised travellers who do not have a vaccination or recovery certificate must quarantine for 10 days and get tested on days 1 and 7 after their arrival.
More information on essential travels on: www.info-coronavirus.be - FAQ
In addition, some countries are classified as "very high-risk", and an entry ban applies. People who have been in these countries during the past 14 days can travel only if they meet one of the exceptions listed on www.info-coronavirus.be/en/countries-with-high-risk/. In this case, the following stricter measures apply before and upon arrival in Belgium:
- Before arrival in Belgium, a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) must always be filled-in.
- For non-residents, either a pre-departure negative PCR test taken less than 72 hours prior to arrival or an EU Digital COVID Certificate (or one deemed equivalent by the European Commission or Belgium) is required. A 10-day quarantine is required as well as a PCR test on day 7 of the mandatory quarantine.
- For Belgians and belgian residents, a 10-day quarantine is required as well as a PCR test on day 1 and day 7 of the mandatory quarantine.
Finally, as from 28 April 2021, people who were in Brazil, South Africa or India at any time during the past 14 days, are prohibited to travel directly or indirectly to Belgium, provided that they do not have Belgian nationality or do not have their main residence in Belgium, with the exception of essential journeys. (www.info-coronavirus.be)
Is a quarantine required?
Any person coming (or returning) to Belgium for at least 48 hours, after a stay of at least 48 hours in a non-EU "red" zone, must be placed in quarantine.
Travellers who have a recognized European or Belgian vaccination or recovery certificate must get tested on day 1 or day 2 after arrival. If the result is negative, the quarantine can end. Travellers who do not have a recognized European or Belgian vaccination or recovery certificate must quarantine for 10 days and get tested on day 1 and day 7 of the mandatory quarantine. Some countries of origin are exempt from the quarantine obligation, see https://www.info-coronavirus.be for further details.
Authorized travellers from "very high-risk" zones must quarantine for 10 days. Belgians and Belgian residents must be tested on day 1 and day 7 after arrival; non-residents must present a pre-departure negative PCR test taken less than 72 hours prior to arrival, and be tested on day 7.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form in advance. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception when the person is travelling by specific travel means and staying less than 48 hours abroad, or less than 48 hours in Belgium. Persons who travel to Belgium by boat or plane are always obliged to fill in the Passenger Locator Form. The same applies to people who travel to Belgium by train or bus from outside the EU or Schengen area. This exception does not apply to travellers from “very high-risk” zones, who are always required to fill-in the form.
Find out more:
Colour codes by country
Mandatory form for travel to Belgium
Info coronavirus
Contact Point
For any questions concerning the measures applicable to arrival in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/ and contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected].
May I transit this country?
Yes
Transit is considered essential travel and is therefore allowed. Travellers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a statement indicating the reason of their journey (more information and the form can be found at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
All persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
Transit by air
Travellers who only transit by air and who only enter the transit zone are not required to present a negative test. However, these travellers are required to show a negative test result before arriving in Belgium if this is needed to travel on to the final destination.
Transit by land
From within the EU+ area, if you will be spending less than 48 hours in Belgium and if you are not travelling by air or boat, no PCR test is required. The same applies also to cross-border workers. For people arriving in Belgium with their own vehicle, random checks may be carried out at the borders.
From outside the EU+ area, if you will be spending less than 48 hours in Belgium and if you are not travelling by air, boat, train or bus, no PCR test is required.
May I fly to this country?
Essential travel for persons whose main residence is in third countries considered as “red” zones, and who are not EU/Schengen citizens or residents, must be accompanied by an essential travel certificate issued by the Belgian diplomatic or consular post.
All persons traveling to Belgium by airplane must fill in a Passenger Locator Form within the 48 hours before their arrival in Belgium and non-residents must present the result of a negative PCR-test (carried out at the earliest 72 hours before departure for Belgium).
People travelling from South Africa, Brazil and India must always complete a PLF.
You can find the latest information on air travel regulations for this country on the IATA website.
You can also find information about air passenger rights on our portal for citizens.
General measures
The latest measures are available at info-coronavirus.be
Use of facemasks
Wearing a mask is no longer compulsory outdoors unless a distance of 1.5 meters cannot be respected and unless different restrictions apply.
From the age of 12, face masks are mandatory in public transport (including at stops and stations), in shops and shopping malls, cinemas, theatres, concert and conference venues, auditoria, places of worship, museums, libraries, justice buildings, markets, flea markets and funfairs, public buildings for the parts accessible to the public, in catering establishments, in shopping streets, for close-contact professions and their customers, during manifestations and in all crowded private and public spaces, and when it is not possible to maintain a physical distancing of 1.5 meters.
In catering establishments such as bars and restaurants, facemasks are mandatory when moving or doing recreational activities, but can be removed when seated at a table.
Wearing a mask remains strongly recommended in all other public places, and is mandatory when it is not possible to maintain a physical distancing of 1.5 metres.
During open-air cultural or sports events, manifestations and congress where the public is seated, it is possible to remove the facemasks. Local authorities may also take more restrictive measures.
Local authorities may also take more restrictive measures.
Physical Distancing
Physical distancing of at least 1.5 meters is required, except for people living under the same roof, children under the age of 12, and for care takers. Each person can have close contact (less than 1.5 metres) with 8 persons indoors, excluding members of the same household and children up to the age of 12. This also applies to family holidays in tourist accommodation.
Per household, you can receive maximum 8 close contact persons at home.
Indoor and outdoor meetings, public or private gatherings and events
A maximum number of 8 persons can be invited at home. Children up to the age of 12 are not included in the limit. 1,5 metres distance must be kept (excluding your close contact).
Ceremonies are allowed with up to 200 people indoors and 400 people outdoors.
Open-air manifestations and events are allowed with no limit on the maximum number of participants. Wearing a facemask and keeping a distance of 1.5 metres from other people remain mandatory, apart from when people are seated.
Conference venues are open. Professional meetings are allowed.
Activities in an organised context (e.g. sports clubs or associations) can take place indoors with up to 50 people of all ages, but without an audience and without overnight stays. Outdoors, the number of people is limited to 100. Participants should remain as much as possible in close groups of maximum 8 people, with some exceptions. A trainer or supervisor needs to be present.
Youth activities and youth camps and community life: up to 50 people, without an overnight stay. Pre-testing is highly recommended.
From 13 August 2021, the Covid Safety Ticket will be introduced for outdoor events with more than 1500 people. The CST will be available for the following categories:
- People who have been fully vaccinated for at least 2 weeks;
- People providing a negative PCR test less than 48 hours old (antigenic tests are not accepted),;
- People providing a certificate proving that they recovered from Covid-19.
For outdoor events organised with the use of the Covid Safety ticket, the obligations of wearing masks and keeping physical distancing are lifted.
Information on Tourism at National level
National website with coronavirus-related information for TOURISM
Useful Info for tourists
Before starting your journey, please check visa requirements for your destination at: The Schengen visa
EU Digital COVID Certificates
This country is already connected to the Gateway and is issuing and/or verifying at least one EU Digital COVID Certificate (Vaccination, Recovery, Test)
App for "EU Digital COVID Certificates" issued in Belgium
_________
The EU Digital COVID Certificate Regulation entered into force on 01 July 2021. EU citizens and residents will now be able to have their Digital COVID Certificates issued and verified across the EU. National authorities are in charge of issuing the certificate.
The certificate provides a standardised recognition of the holder's status related to vaccination, recovery from Covid-19, or test result. Despite the European Digital COVID Certificate, each country continues to be responsible for the definition of its own entry requirements and rules, which are not standardised at the EU level. This means that what is required to enter upon presentation of this certificate, depends on the measures and entry rules in place at your destination.
Find out more:
Information on the "EU Digital COVID Certificate"
Further information: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/BEL/7011
16.06.20201
What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate
Provisional information subject to further revision
Belgium is expected to start accepting Digital EU COVID Certificates (EUDCC) from 1 July.
Travellers arriving from "green" or "orange" areas, with or without an EUDCC, are not subject to testing or quarantine requirements.
Travellers holding an EUDCC, and arriving from a "red" area, are exempted from further testing and quarantine requirements if their EUDCC contains either:
- a certificate of full vaccination
The vaccination is considered to be completed (full) 14 days after taking the second dose (or 14 days after the single dose for vaccines requiring 1 dose only). For people who had been previously infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the vaccination is considered to be completed also after a single dose of a vaccine requiring 2 doses
- a certificate of recovery from Covid-19, valid between 11 and 180 days from the date of a positive PCR test
- a pre-departure PCR test taken no earlier than 72 hours prior to arrival. Residents in Belgium and persons of Belgian nationality can replace the pre-departure PCR test by a PCR test taken within 48 hours from arrival, by remaining in self-isolation while waiting for the test result.
Children under 12 years old are exempted from the testing requirement.
Non-residents in Belgium, who have stayed in a high-risk area (with variants of concern) in the last 14 days - even if holding a valid EUDCC - are prohibited from entering Belgium, with the exception of essential travel authorised for transport personnel and diplomats. Residents in Belgium and persons of Belgian nationality are subject to mandatory 10-day quarantine and PCR test on day 1 and day 7 from entry.
Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements
The Belgian Government has introduced a traffic light system of high, medium and low-risk regions. Belgium's classification is updated every Sunday and is valid from the Monday immediately following. It is based on the data and criteria communicated by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) every Thursday. Each country is given a colour code (red, orange, green). The measures applicable to travel to Belgium depend on the colour code assigned to each country.
Find out the current colour code assigned by Belgium to each country
Is a coronavirus test required?
All travellers from a "red" zone, who are not resident in Belgium, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours before departure.
Children under 12 years old are exempted.
This test is also mandatory for passengers connecting via Belgium to a Schengen destination (including Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland).
All travellers from a "red" zone must also undergo a second test on day 7 of the mandatory quarantine.
Residents of Belgium, returning from a "red" zone after a stay of more than 48 hours, must undergo a mandatory test on day 1 and day 7 of quarantine.
There are exceptions in a few strictly limited cases. More information is available at https://www.info-coronavirus.be
Is a quarantine required?
All travellers who have been at least 48 hours in a "red" zone, and who will stay at least 48 hours in Belgium, must complete a 10-day mandatory quarantine. Travellers arriving from a red zone by air or sea must always complete a 10-day quarantine, regardless of the length of their stay.
The quarantine period may be shortened by taking a second PCR test no less than 7 days after arrival. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form in advance. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception when the person is travelling by other means than plane or boat and staying less than 48 hours abroad or less than 48 hours in Belgium. This is a very strict exception that can be subject to control.
Travellers have to fill out a declaration indicating the reason for their journey (more information and the form can be found at https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
Contact Point for Belgium
If you have any questions regarding the Passenger Locator Form, the COVID-19 test, and the obligation of quarantine in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be and, if needed, contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected]
Find out more:
diplomatie.belgium.be
www.info-coronavirus.be
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Non-essential travel to Belgium is prohibited for persons whose main residence is in third countries considered as “red” zones, except if they are EU/Schengen citizens or residents.
Third countries are considered to be "red" zones, with the exception of third countries listed in Annex I of Council Recommendation (EU) 2020/912 of 30 June 2020 (Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Israël).
Essential travel is allowed while respecting restrictions.
Depending on the country or region you are travelling from, different measures apply.
- "Red" zones are regions or countries where individuals are at a high risk of infection.
- "Orange" zones are regions or countries for which a moderately elevated risk of infection has been identified.
- "Green" zones are regions or countries for which a low risk of infection has been identified.
Is a quarantine required?
Any person coming (or returning) to Belgium for at least 48 hours, after a stay of at least 48 hours in a "red" zone, must be placed in quarantine. Quarantine lasts 10 days, but can be shortened with a negative PCR test on day 7. Residents in Belgium must also be tested on day 1 of quarantine.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form in advance. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception when the person is travelling by other means than carrier and staying less than 48 hours abroad or less than 48 hours in Belgium. This is a very strict exception that can be subject to control.
Find out more:
Colour codes by country
Mandatory form for travel to Belgium
Info coronavirus
Contact Point
For any questions concerning the measures applicable to arrival in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/ and contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected].
May I transit this country?
YES
Transit is considered essential travel and is therefore allowed. Travellers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a statement indicating the reason of their journey (more information and the form can be found at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
All persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
Transit by land
From within the EU+ area, if you will be spending less than 48 hours in Belgium and if you are not travelling by air or boat, no PCR test is required.
From outside the EU+ area, if you will be spending less than 48 hours in Belgium and if you are not travelling by air, boat, train or bus, no PCR test is required.
May I fly to this country?
Essential travel for persons whose main residence is in third countries considered as “red” zones, and who are not EU/Schengen citizens or residents, must be accompanied by an essential travel certificate issued by the Belgian diplomatic or consular post.
All persons traveling to Belgium by airplane must fill in a Passenger Locator Form within the 48 hours before their arrival in Belgium and non-residents must present the result of a negative PCR-test (carried out at the earliest 72 hours before departure for Belgium).
You can find the latest information on air travel regulations for this country on the IATA website.
You can also find information about air passenger rights on our portal for citizens.
General measures
Between midnight and 05.00, gatherings may only take place in public areas with a maximum of 3 people or with members of the same household (people living under the same roof). In Brussels, it is forbidden to drink alcohol in the street between 22:00 and 05:00.
The latest measures are available at info-coronavirus.be
Use of facemasks
From the age of 12, face masks are mandatory in public transport (including at stops and stations), in shops and shopping malls, cinemas, theatres, concert and conference venues, auditoria, places of worship, museums, libraries, justice buildings, markets, flea markets and funfairs, public buildings for the parts accessible to the public, in catering establishments, in shopping streets, for close-contact professions and their customers.
Wearing a mask remains strongly recommended in all other public places, and is mandatory when it is not possible to maintain a physical distancing of 1.5 metres.
Local authorities may also take more restrictive measures. It is mandatory to wear a facemask in all outdoor and indoor public spaces in Brussels.
Physical Distancing
Physical distancing of at least 1.5 meters is required, except for people living under the same roof, children under the age of 12, and for care takers. Each person can have close contact (less than 1.5 metres) with 2 persons from the same household per one month. Per household, you can receive maximum 2 close contact persons at home.
Information on Tourism at National level
National website with coronavirus-related information for TOURISM
EU Digital COVID Certificates
THIS COUNTRY IS ALREADY CONNECTED TO THE GATEWAY AND IS ISSUING AND/OR VERIFYING AT LEAST ONE EU DIGITAL COVID CERTIFICATE (VACCINATION, RECOVERY, TEST)
App for "EU Digital COVID Certificates" issued in Belgium
_________
The EU Digital COVID Certificate (available as of 1 July 2021) provides proof that a person has either:
- been vaccinated against COVID-19 (vaccine type and manufacturer, number of doses, date of vaccination);
- received a negative test result, PCR or rapid antigen, with the name of the test, date and time of test, test centre and result (self-tests are not valid);
- recovered from COVID-19 (positive PCR test result valid for 180 days).
When travelling, holders of the EU Digital COVID Certificate will have the same rights as citizens of the visited Member State who have been vaccinated, tested or recovered.
The certificate provides a standardised recognition of the holder's status related to vaccination, recovery from COVID or test result. Each country continues to be responsible for the definition of its own entry requirements and rules, which are not standardised at the EU level. This means that what you will be eligible for, upon presentation of this certificate, depends on the measures and entry rules in place at your country of destination.
How does it work:
- Member States issue a certificate automatically or upon request, which is issued either digitally or on paper, and has a QR code with an electronic signature;
- Citizens store the certificate in their digital app or wallet and can use it when they travel;
- When the verifier asks the citizen for the certificate, the QR code is shown and the digital signature is verified.
Find out more:
Information on the EU Digital COVID Certificate
Press Release
Questions & Answers
Factsheet
04.05.2021
From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?
PARTIALLY
The Belgian Government has introduced a traffic light system of high, medium and low-risk regions. Belgium's classification is updated every Sunday and is valid from the Monday immediately following. It is based on the data and criteria communicated by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) every Thursday. Each country is given a colour code (red, orange, green). The measures applicable to travel to Belgium depend on the colour code assigned to each country.
Find out the current colour code assigned by Belgium to each country
Is a coronavirus test required?
All travellers from a "red" zone, who are not resident in Belgium, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours before departure.
Children aged 11 and under are exempted.
This test is also mandatory for passengers connecting via Belgium to a Schengen destination (including Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland).
All travellers from a "red" zone must also undergo a second test on day 7 of the mandatory quarantine.
Residents of Belgium, returning from a "red" zone after a stay of more than 48 hours, must undergo a mandatory test on day 1 and day 7 of quarantine.
There are exceptions in a few strictly limited cases. More information is available at https://www.info-coronavirus.be
Is a quarantine required?
All travellers who have been at least 48 hours in a "red" zone, and who will stay at least 48 hours in Belgium, must complete a 10-day mandatory quarantine.
The quarantine period may be shortened by taking a second PCR test no less than 7 days after arrival. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form in advance. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception when the person is travelling by other means than plane or boat and staying less than 48 hours abroad or less than 48 hours in Belgium. This is a very strict exception that can be subject to control.
Travellers have to fill out a declaration indicating the essential reason for their journey (more information and the form can be found at https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
Contact Point for Belgium
If you have any questions regarding the Passenger Locator Form, the COVID-19 test, and the obligation of quarantine in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be and, if needed, contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected]
Find out more:
diplomatie.belgium.be
www.info-coronavirus.be
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Non-essential travel to Belgium is prohibited for persons whose main residence is in third countries considered as “red” zones, except if they are EU/Schengen citizens.
Essential travel is allowed while respecting restrictions.
Depending on the country or region you are travelling from, different measures apply.
- "Red" zones are regions or countries where individuals are at a high risk of infection.
- "Orange" zones are regions or countries for which a moderately elevated risk of infection has been identified.
- "Green" zones are regions or countries for which a low risk of infection has been identified.
Third countries are considered to be "red" zones, with the exception of Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand.
Is a quarantine required?
Any person coming (or returning) to Belgium for at least 48 hours, after a stay of at least 48 hours in a "red" zone, must be placed in quarantine. The quarantine can only be terminated with a negative PCR test performed on day 7 of quarantine.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form in advance. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception when the person is travelling by other means than plane or boat and staying less than 48 hours abroad or less than 48 hours in Belgium. This is a very strict exception that can be subject to control.
Find out more:
Colour codes by country
Mandatory form for travel to Belgium
Info coronavirus
Contact Point
For any questions concerning the measures applicable to arrival in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/ and contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected].
May I transit this country?
YES
Transit is considered essential travel and is therefore allowed. Travelers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a statement indicating the essential reason of their journey (more information and the form can be found at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
All persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
General measures
Working from home is compulsory where possible.
A national curfew from midnight to 5.00 is in place. Local authorities have the flexibility and authority to adapt and restrict travel restrictions and non-essential activities in accordance with the epidemiological situation in their area. People going to work, coming home from work, or moving for assistance to a vulnerable person, are exempted.
From 8 May, the curfew will be replaced by a ban on gatherings: between midnight and 5.00, gatherings may only take place in public areas with a maximum of 3 people or with members of the same household (people living under the same roof).
The latest measures are available at info-coronavirus.be
Use of facemasks
From the age of 12, face masks are mandatory in public transport (including at stops and stations), in shops and shopping malls, cinemas, theatres, concert and conference venues, auditoria, places of worship, museums, libraries, justice buildings, markets, flea markets and funfairs, public buildings for the parts accessible to the public, in catering establishments, in shopping streets, for close-contact professions and their customers.
Wearing a mask remains strongly recommended in all other public places, and is mandatory when it is not possible to maintain a physical distancing of 1.5 metres.
Local authorities may also take more restrictive measures. It is mandatory to wear a facemask in all outdoor and indoor public spaces in Brussels.
Physical Distancing
Physical distancing of at least 1.5 meters is required, except for people living under the same roof, children under the age of 12, and for care takers. Each person can have close contact (less than 1.5 metres) with one person outside his/her household per one month. Per household, you can receive maximum one close contact at home. Single-households can have two close contacts per one month, but not at the same time.
Source : https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/BEL/7001
31.03.2021
From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?
PARTIALLY
Belgium is classifying risk areas on the basis of the EU "traffic lights" approach to travel restrictions. Each country is given a colour code. The measures applicable to travel to Belgium depend on the colour code assigned to each country. Detailed and updated information are available at: colour codes by country
All non-essential travel to and from Belgium is prohibited. Travellers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a declaration indicating the essential reason for their journey (more information and the form can be found at https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
Is a coronavirus test required?
All travellers from a "red" zone, who are not resident in Belgium, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours before departure.
Children aged 11 and under are exempted.
This test is also mandatory for passengers connecting via Belgium to a Schengen destination (including Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland).
All travellers from a "red" zone must also undergo a second test on day 7 of the mandatory quarantine.
Residents of Belgium, returning from a "red" zone after a stay of more than 48 hours, must undergo a mandatory test on day 1 and day 7 of quarantine.
There are exceptions in a few strictly limited cases. More information are available at https://www.info-coronavirus.be
Is a quarantine required?
All travellers who have been at least 48 hours in a "red" zone, and who will stay at least 48 hours in Belgium, must complete a 10-day mandatory quarantine.
The quarantine period may be shortened by taking a second PCR test no less than 7 days after arrival. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form in advance. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception when the person is travelling by other means than plane or boat and staying less than 48 hours abroad or less than 48 hours in Belgium. This is a very strict exception that can be subject to control.
Contact Point for Belgium
If you have any questions regarding the Passenger Locator Form, the COVID-19 test, and the obligation of quarantine in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be and, if needed, contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected]
Find out more:
diplomatie.belgium.be
www.info-coronavirus.be
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Non-essential travel to Belgium is prohibited for persons whose main residence is abroad.
Essential travel is allowed while respecting restrictions.
Depending on the country or region you are travelling from, different measures apply.
- "Red" zones are regions or countries where individuals are at a high risk of infection.
- "Orange" zones are regions or countries for which a moderately elevated risk of infection has been identified.
- "Green" zones are regions or countries for which a low risk of infection has been identified.
Third countries are considered to be "red" zones, with the exception of Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand.
Is a quarantine required?
Any person coming (or returning) to Belgium for at least 48 hours, after a stay of at least 48 hours in a "red" zone, must be placed in quarantine. The quarantine can only be terminated with a negative PCR test performed on day 7 of quarantine.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form in advance. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception when the person is travelling by other means than plane or boat and staying less than 48 hours abroad or less than 48 hours in Belgium. This is a very strict exception that can be subject to control.
Find out more:
Colour codes by country
Mandatory form for travel to Belgium
Info coronavirus
Contact Point
For any questions concerning the measures applicable to arrival in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/ and contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected].
May I transit this country?
YES
Transit is considered essential travel and is therefore allowed. Travelers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a statement indicating the essential reason of their journey (more information and the form can be found at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
All persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
May I enter this country by road transport?
PARTIALLY
All non-essential travel to and from Belgium is prohibited. Travelers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a declaration indicating the essential reason of their journey (more information and the form can be found at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
All persons travelling by bus or by coach to Belgium from countries outside the EU and outside the Schengen Area, including the United Kingdom, must fill in a Passenger Locator Form within 48 hours before their arrival in Belgium.
Travellers who come from a red zone (according to the Belgian national classification) and who do not have their main residence in Belgium, must submit a negative result to a PCR test prior to entry (carried out at the earliest 72 hours before their departure for Belgium).
May I enter this country by train?
PARTIALLY
All non-essential travel to and from Belgium is prohibited. Travelers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a declaration indicating the essential reason of their journey (more information and the form can be found at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
All persons travelling by train to Belgium from countries outside the EU and outside the Schengen Area, including the United Kingdom, must fill in a Passenger Locator Form within 48 hours before their arrival in Belgium.
Travellers who come from a red zone (according to the Belgian national classification) and who do not have their main residence in Belgium, must submit a negative result to a PCR test prior to entry (carried out at the earliest 72 hours before their departure for Belgium).
May I enter this country by sea transport?
PARTIALLY
All non-essential travel to and from Belgium is prohibited. Travelers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a declaration indicating the essential reason of their journey (more information and the form can be found at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
All persons traveling to Belgium by boat must fill in a Passenger Locator Form within the 48 hours before their arrival in Belgium and non-residents must present the result of a negative PCR-test (carried out at the earliest 72 hours before departure for Belgium).
May I fly to this country?
All non-essential travel to and from Belgium is prohibited. Travelers have to fill in, sign and carry with them a declaration indicating the essential reason of their journey (more information and the form can be found at: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/travels/).
All persons traveling to Belgium by airplane must fill in a Passenger Locator Form within the 48 hours before their arrival in Belgium and non-residents must present the result of a negative PCR-test (carried out at the earliest 72 hours before departure for Belgium).
You can find the latest information on air travel regulations for this country on the IATA website.
You can also find information about air passenger rights on our portal for citizens.
General measures
Working from home is compulsory where possible.
There is a national curfew from midnight to 5.00. Local authorities have the flexibility and authority to adapt and restrict travel restrictions and non-essential activities in accordance with the epidemiological situation in their area. People going to work, coming home from work, or moving for assistance to a vulnerable person, are exempted.
The latest measures are available at info-coronavirus.be
Source: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/BEL/7001
25.01.2021
Covid-19 Update: New measures in Belgium
The new ministerial decree containing more stringent measures comes into force from January 27, 2021 00:00. All non-essential travel is now prohibited.
By "essential trip", it is meant that :
- any travel carried out for professional reasons, by a person having a main residence in Belgium or in the European Union.
- any travel carried out by transport staff, by a person having their main residence outside the European Union (including the United Kingdom).
Sworn statement:
In order to regulate essential travel, a justification is sought by the federal government, which requires a declaration of honor. Find this form online via this link
The sworn declaration is compulsory regardless of the duration of the trip abroad. People traveling abroad regularly, such as border workers or truck drivers, however, only need to complete the Declaration of Honor once for a clearly defined activity.
Passenger Locator Form:
The rules concerning the Passenger Locator Form (https://travel.info-coronavirus.be/en/public-health-passenger-locator-form) remain unchanged. The overview of the rules is also shown below.
Transport personnel remain exempt from quarantine and COVID testing when carrying out professional activities abroad.
Drivers having their main residence in Belgium and making a business trip
a) For a business trip of less than 48 hours
- must be in possession of the duly completed declaration of honor
- must not complete the Passenger Locator Form & the Business Travel Abroad form,
- are exempt from quarantine and COVID testing
b) For a business trip of more than 48 hours
- must be in possession of the duly completed declaration of honor
- must complete the Passenger Locator Form (https://travel.info-coronavirus.be/public-health-passenger-locator-form) & the Business Travel Abroad form (https://bta.belgium.be/fr). .
- are exempt from quarantine and Covid testing
Drivers with a main residence outside Belgium and who come to Belgium for a business trip
a) Drivers coming to Belgium for less than 48 hours
- must be in possession of the duly completed declaration of honor
- do not have to complete the Passenger Locator Form & the Business Travel Abroad form
- should not quarantine
b) Drivers coming to Belgium for more than 48 hours
- must be in possession of the duly completed declaration of honor
- must complete the Passenger Locator Form (https://travel.info-coronavirus.be/public-health-passenger-locator-form) & the Business Travel Abroad form (https://bta.belgium.be/fr).
- are exempt from quarantine and Covid testing.
Source: FEBETRA
22.01.2021
From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?
PARTIALLY
Note: Belgium adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Belgium are not based on the common "EU Traffic Lights" map.
Restrictions for people coming (or returning) to Belgium from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country depend on whether they are returning from a red, orange, or green zone.
Any person coming (or returning) to Belgium for at least 48 hours, after a stay of at least 48 hours in a red zone, must be placed in quarantine. The quarantine can only be terminated with a negative PCR test performed on the seventh day of quarantine.
Travelers (from the age of 12) who are not resident in Belgium, must provide a negative PCR test before their travel if they come from a red zone. This test is also mandatory for passengers connecting via Belgium to a Schengen destination (including Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland). The negative test must have been carried out less than 72 hours before departure for Belgium.
Residents of Belgium returning from a red zone after a stay of more than 48 hours must undergo a mandatory test on day 1 and day 7 of quarantine.
There are exceptions in a few strictly limited cases. For more information, please check https://www.info-coronavirus.be
For any questions regarding the Passenger Locator Form, the COVID-19 test, and the quarantine obligation in Belgium, travellers should check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be or contact the FPS Public Health.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons coming or returning to Belgium, or travelling through Belgium, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form in advance. A self-assessment tool is integrated into the Passenger Locator Form.
There is an exception when the person is travelling by other means than plane or boat and staying less than 48 hours abroad or less than 48 hours in Belgium. This is a very strict exception that can be subject to control.
Contact Point for Belgium
If you have any questions regarding the Passenger Locator Form, the COVID-19 test, and the obligation of quarantine in Belgium, please check the website https://www.info-coronavirus.be and, if needed, contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected]
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Travel from third countries remains prohibited with few exceptions. Essential travel to Belgium is allowed, while respecting restrictions (see question on quarantine).
People coming from the countries on the list published on the Foreign Affairs website may travel to Belgium.
TRANSIT
All persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium by boat or by plane and who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
All persons travelling through Belgium by carother means of transport and who are staying at least 48h in Belgium must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
General measures
Working from home is compulsory where possible.
There is a national curfew from midnight to 5.00. Local authorities have the flexibility and authority to adapt and restrict travel restrictions and non-essential activities in accordance with the epidemiological situation in their area. People going to work, coming home from work, or moving for assistance to a vulnerable person, are exempted.
Health cover for temporary stays
Use of facemasks
From the age of 12, face masks (of any fabric) are mandatory in public transport (including at stops and stations), in shops and shopping malls, cinemas, theatres, concert and conference venues, auditoria, places of worship, museums, libraries, justice buildings, markets, flea markets and funfairs, public buildings for the parts accessible to the public, in catering establishments, in shopping streets, for close-contact professions and their customers.
Wearing a mask remains strongly recommended in all other public places, and is mandatory when it is not possible to maintain a physical distancing of 1.5 metres.
Local authorities may also take more restrictive measures. It is mandatory to wear a facemask in all outdoor and indoor public spaces in Brussels.
Physical Distancing
Physical distancing of at least 1.5 meters is required, except for people living under the same roof, children under the age of 12, and for care takers. Each person can have close contact (less than 1.5 metres) with one person outside his/her household per one month. Per household, you can receive maximum one close contact at home. Single-households can have two close contacts per one month, but not at the same time.
Find out more:
diplomatie.belgium.be
www.info-coronavirus.be
14.12.2020
From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?
Travelling from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed.
Before entering Belgium, check the latest information on travel advice (with particular reference to the different zones corresponding to the local COVID-19 situation) at diplomatie.belgium.be.
The self-assessment test in the Passenger Locator Form (see below) indicates if you must go in quarantine for 7 days, plus 7 more days of hightened vigilance and if you must be tested.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons returning to Belgium or travelling through Belgium, and who are staying at least 48 hours, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form. A self-assessment test is integrated in the Passenger Locator Form. In case of a positive self-assessment, quarantine and test are no longer necessary.
Contact Point for Belgium
If you have any questions regarding the Passenger Locator Form, the COVID-19 test and the obligation of quarantine in Belgium, please contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected]
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
All persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium and who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
Travel from third countries remains prohibited with few exceptions. Essential travel to Belgium is allowed, while respecting restrictions (see question on quarantine).
For more information you can visit:
Info coronavirus
diplomatie.belgium.be
Transit
Find out more:
diplomatie.belgium.be
www.info-coronavirus.be
Documents you need to travel in Europe
04.11.2020
Due to the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic, travellers returning from a red zone will no longer be under the obligation to be tested, until November 15, except in the case of obvious symptoms. However, depending on their answers to the self-assessment questionnaire attached to the Passenger Locator Form, they may be required to comply with a quarantine extended to 10 days.
Source: https://diplomatie.belgium.be/en
28.10.2020
Entry Restrictions
Travelling from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is, in general, allowed.
Before entering Belgium, check the latest information on travel advice (with particular reference to the different zones corresponding to the local COVID-19 situation) at diplomatie.belgium.be.
A mandatory PCR test and 7 days quarantine are required upon arrival or return from zones considered most affected (high risk), while these measures are recommended when arriving from zones less affected. For the zones considered high risk, travel may not be possible or not authorised.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons returning to Belgium or travelling through Belgium, and who are staying at least 48 hours, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
Contact Point for Belgium
If you have any questions regarding the Passenger Locator Form, the COVID-19 test and the quarantine obligation in Belgium, please contact the FPS Public Health on 0800 14 689 or send an e-mail to [email protected]
Transit
All persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium and who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
Travel to and from “third countries”
Travel to and from “third countries” remains prohibited with few exceptions. Essential travel to and from Belgium is allowed, while respecting restrictions (see question on quarantine).
List applicable as of October 28, 2020
- Australia
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Rwanda
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Thailand
- Uruguay
For more information you can visit:
Info coronavirus
diplomatie.belgium.be
Find out more:
diplomatie.belgium.be
www.info-coronavirus.be
30.09.2020
Travel to and from “third countries” remains prohibited with few exceptions. Essential travel to and from Belgium is allowed, while respecting restrictions (see question on quarantine).
For more information you can visit:
Info coronavirus
diplomatie.belgium.be
14.09.2020
Residents of countries from outside the EU and Schengen area or from a high risk area (“red zone”) as defined by the Belgian authorities at diplomatie.belgium.be may not enter the Belgian territory, except in specific cases.
A mandatory PCR test and quarantine of 14 days are required upon arrival or return of Belgian nationals or residents in Belgium from outside the EU and Schengen area or from a high risk area ("red zone") located within the EU or Schengen area, as defined by the Belgian authorities at diplomatie.belgium.be (while they are recommended for "orange zones").
From 1/8/20, all persons returning to Belgium or travelling through Belgium, and who are staying at least 48 hours, must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
Local authorities have the flexibility and authority to adapt travel restrictions and non-essential activities in accordance with the epidemiological situation in their area.
Before continuing your reading, please note:
- The advice below only concerns non-essential travel such as tourism.
- It is forbidden to travel to countries not mentioned below, except for essential travel.
- This overview is based on currently available information obtained through CELEVAL and FPS Public Health. When necessary, this information will be updated daily at 16h. No rights can be derived from this overview
Extract from https://diplomatie.belgium.be/en
From Belgium Travel is possible:
Austria: province of Carinthia
France: Department of Creuze
Italy: Regions of Piemonte, Aosta Valley, Abruzzo, Molise, Basilicata, Calabria, Sicily and Marche
Liechtenstein
Poland: Regions of West Pomeranian, Lubusz, Lower Silesian, Opole, Kuyavian-Pomeranian, Warmian-Masurian, Lódz, Swietokrzyskie, Lublin, Podlaskie, Greater Poland, Silesia, Mazovia, and the region of Warsaw
Portugal : Region of the Center
Sweden: Regions of Stockholm and Upper Norrland
Switzerland : Cantons of Basel-Landschaft, Glarus, Schaffhausen, Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Appenzell Innerrhoden, Sankt-Gallen, Graubünden, Thurgau, Lucerne, Uri, Obwalden, Nidwalden and Ticino.
Travel is possible under conditions:
Cyprus (mandatory test)
Estonia (quarantine)
Germany (mandatory test or quarantine < Brussels-Capital Region)
Greece (mandatory test)
Iceland (mandatory test or quarantine)
Ireland (quarantine)
Italy (mandatory test only for Sardinia)
Latvia (quarantine)
Lithuania (mandatory test and quarantine)
Netherlands (quarantine < city of Antwerp and Brussels-Capital Region)
Norway (quarantine)
Portugal (mandatory test only for the Azores and Madeira)
Slovakia (quarantine)
Slovenia (quarantine)
United Kingdom (quarantine)
Increased vigilance for:
Austria: provinces of Upper Austria, Lower Austria, Vorarlberg, Salzburg, Burgenland, Styria and Tyrol
Bulgaria
Czech Republic: Regions of Northwest, Central Moravia and Moravia-Silesia
Croatia: Zagreb (city and province); provinces of Bjelovar-Bilogora, Osijek-Baranja, Vukovar-Srijem, Karlovac, Sisak-Moslavina, Primorje-Gorski Kotar, Istria, Varaždin, Međimurje, Koprivnica-Križevci and Krapina-Zagorje.
France: Departments of Aisne, Allier, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Ardèche, Ardennes, Ariège, Aube, Aude, Bas-Rhin, Calvados, Cantal, Charente, Charente-Maritime, Cher, Corrèze, Côtes-d’Armor, Deux-Sèvres, Dordogne, Doubs, Drôme, Eure, Eure-et-Loir, Finistère, Haut-Rhin, Hautes-Alpes, Haute-Loire, Haute-Marne, Hautes-Pyrénées, Haute-Saône, Haute-Savoie, Haute-Vienne, Indre, Jura, Landes, Loir-et-Cher, Loire-Atlantique, Lot, Lot-et-Garonne, Lozère, Manche, Marne, Mayenne, Meurthe-et-Moselle, Meuse, Morbihan, Moselle, Nièvre, Oise, Orne, Saint Martin, Savoie, Somme, Saône-et-Loire, Tarn, Territoire de Belfort, Vendée, Vosges, Yonne
Germany: Regions of Upper Bavaria, Lower Bavaria, Stuttgart, Karlsruhe, Middle Franconia, Swabia, Freiburg, Upper Palatinate, Upper Franconia, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Braunschweig, Hanover, Weser-Ems.
Greece
Ireland: Eastern and Midland; Southern Ireland
Italy: Regions of Veneto, Liguria, Lombardy, Campania, Sardinia, Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, Puglia, Friuli-Venezia-Giulia, Umbria, Lazio and the Autonomous Provinces of Bolzano and Trento.
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands: provinces of Groningen, North-Brabant, Utrecht, Limburg, Gelderland and Flevoland
Norway: Regions of Oslo and Viken; Western Norway
Poland: provinces of Lesser Poland, Subcarpathia, Pomerania
Portugal: Lisbon metropolitan area, Northern Portugal, Algarve, Alentejo
San Marino
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain: islands of Tenerife, El Hierro, La Gomera and La Palma
Sweden: Middle East Sweden, Småland and islands, South Sweden, West Sweden, Middle North Sweden and Middle Norrland
Switzerland: cantons of Valais, Jura, Aargau, Bern, Geneva, Solothurn, Neuchâtel, Basel-Stadt, Zürich, Schwyz and Zug
United Kingdom: North East England, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, Wales, Yorkshire and Humber, West Central Scotland, Southern Scotland, Northern Ireland
Vatican
Travel is not possible or not authorised:
Andorra
Austria: province of Vienna
Croatia : Provinces of Split-Dalmatia, Brod-Posavina, Dubrovnik-Neretva, Požega-Slavonia, Virovitica-Podravina, Lika-Senj, Zadar and Šibenik-Knin
Czech Republic: regions of Prague, Central Bohemia, Southwest, Northeast, Southeast
Denmark
Finland
France: Ville de Paris ; Departments Ain, Alpes-Maritimes, Aveyron, Bouches-du-Rhône, Corse-du-Sud, Côte-d’Or, Essonne, Gard, Gers, Guadeloupe, French Guyana, Gironde, Haute-Corse, Haute-Garonne, Hauts-de-Seine, Hérault, d’Ille-et-Vilaine, d’Indre-et-Loire, Isère, Loire, Loiret, Maine-et-Loire, Martinique, de Mayotte, Nord, Pas-de-Calais, Puy-de-Dôme, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Pyrénées-Orientales, Réunion, Rhône, Sarthe, de Seine-et-Marne, Seine-Maritime, Seine-Saint-Denis, de Tarn-et-Garonne, Val-d’Oise, Val-de-Marne, Var, Vaucluse, Vienne, Yvelines
Hungary
Monaco
Netherlands: provinces of South-Holland, North-Holland
Romania
Spain except the islands of Tenerife El Hierro, La Gomera and La Palma
Switzerland: cantons of Fribourg and Vaud
United Kingdom: North West England
Returning from abroad:
From August, 1st, all persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium and who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out an identification form (Passenger Locator Form). You can find this form here (link is external).
Mandatory quarantine (*) and test on return from:
All countries outside the EU and Schengen
Andorra
Austria: province of Vienna (from 18/09 at 16.00)
Croatia : provinces of Split-Dalmatia, Brod-Posavina, Zadar and Sibenik-Knin, Dubrovnik-Neretva and Požega-Slavonia.
From 18/09 at 16.00, the following regions will be red zones: provinces of Virovitica-Podravina, Lika-Senj
Czech Republic: Prague region
From 18/09 at 16.00, the following regions will be red zones: Central Bohemia, Southwest, Northeast, Southeast
France: Ville de Paris ; Departments of Ain, Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhône, Corse-du-Sud, Côte-d’Or, Essonne, Gard, Guadeloupe, Guyane française, Gironde, Haute-Corse, Haute-Garonne, Hauts-de-Seine, Hérault, Loiret, Martinique, Réunion, Rhône, Seine-et-Marne, Seine-Saint-Denis, Val-d’Oise, Val-de-Marne, Var, Vaucluse and Yvelines.
From 18/09 at 16.00, the following regions will be red zones: Departments of Aveyron, Gers, Ille-et-Vilaine, Indre-et-Loire, Isère, Loire, Maine-et-Loire, Nord, Pas-de-Calais, Puy-de-Dôme, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Pyrénées-Orientales, Sarthe, Seine-Maritime, Tarn-et-Garonne, Vienne.
Hungary: Budapest (from 18/09 at 16.00)
Monaco
Netherlands: Provinces of South-Holland and North-Holland (from 18/09 at 16.00)
Romania
Spain except the islands of Tenerife, El Hierro, La Gomera and La Palma
Switzerland: canton of Freiburg
From 18/09 at 16.00, the following regions will be red zones: canton of Vaud
United Kingdom: North West England (from 18/09 at 16.00)
Quarantine (*) and test are recommended on return from:
Austria: provinces of Upper Austria, Lower Austria, Vienna, Vorarlberg, Salzburg, Burgenland, Styria and Tyrol
Bulgaria
Croatia: Zagreb (city and province); provinces of Bjelovar-Bilogora, Virovitica-Podravina, Osijek-Baranja, Vukovar-Srijem, Karlovac, Sisak-Moslavina, Lika-Senj, Primorje-Gorski Kotar, Istria, Varaždin, Međimurje, Koprivnica-Križevci, Krapina-Zagorje
Czech Republic: Regions of Central Bohemia, Southwest, Northwest, Northeast, Southeast; Central Moravia and Moravia-Silesia
Denmark
France: Departments of Aisne, Allier, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Ardèche, des Ardennes, Ariège, Aube, Aude, Aveyron, Bas-Rhin, Calvados, Cantal, Charente, Charente-Maritime, Cher, Corrèze, Côtes-d’Armor, Deux-Sèvres, Dordogne, Doubs, Drôme, Eure, Eure-et-Loir, Finistère, Gers, Haut-Rhin, Hautes-Alpes, Haute-Loire, Haute-Marne, Hautes-Pyrénées, Haute-Saône, Haute-Savoie, Haute-Vienne, Ille-et-Vilaine, Indre, Indre-et-Loire, Isère, Jura, Landes, Loir-et-Cher, Loire, Loire-Atlantique, Lot, Lot-et-Garonne, Lozère, Maine-et-Loire, Manche, Marne, Mayenne, Mayotte, Meurthe-et-Moselle, Meuse, Morbihan, Moselle, Nièvre, Nord, Oise, Orne, Pas-de-Calais, Puy-de-Dôme, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Pyrénées-Orientales, Saint Martin, Savoie, Seine-Maritime, Somme, Saône-et-Loire, Sarthe, Tarn, Tarn-et-Garonne, Territoire de Belfort, Vendée, Vienne, Vosges, and Yonne
Germany: Regions of Upper Bavaria, Lower Bavaria, Stuttgart, Karlsruhe, Middle Franconia, Swabia, Freiburg, Upper Palatinate, Upper Franconia, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Braunschweig, Hanover, Weser-Ems.
Greece
Hungary
Ireland: Eastern and Midland; Southern Ireland
Italy: Regions of Veneto, Liguria, Lombardy, Campania, Sardinia, Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, Puglia, Friuli-Venezia-Giulia, Umbria, Lazio; Autonomous Provinces of Bolzano and Trento.
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands: provinces of South-Holland, North-Holland, Groningen, North-Brabant, Utrecht, Limburg, Gelderland and Flevoland
Norway: Regions of Oslo and Viken; Western NorwayPoland: provinces of Lesser Poland, Subcarpathia, Pomerania.
Portugal: Lisbon metropolitan area, Northern Portugal, Algarve, Alentejo
San Marino
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain: islands of Tenerife, El Hierro, La Gomera and La Palma
Sweden: Middle East Sweden, Småland and islands, South Sweden, West Sweden, Middle North Sweden and Middle Norrland
Switzerland: cantons of Vaud, Valais, Jura, Aargau, Bern, Geneva, Solothurn, Neuchâtel, Basel-Stadt, Zürich Schwyz and Zug
United Kingdom: North East England, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, Wales, North West England, Yorkshire and Humber, West Central Scotland, Southern Scotland and Northern Ireland
Vatican
No mandatory quarantine or medical visit necessary
The other zones in the EU, Schengen and the United Kingdom
10.08.2020
Travelling to and from EU countries is, in general, allowed.
Travelling to and from Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein, as well as the United Kingdom, is in general allowed.
Travellers to or from Belgium should check the latest information on travel advice available at diplomatie.belgium.be (updated daily at 16h)
Travel to and from “third countries” remains prohibited with few exceptions. Essential travel to and from Belgium is allowed, while respecting restrictions (see question on quarantine).
Rules and Exceptions
Before entering or leaving Belgium, please check the latest information on travel advice (with particular reference to "red zones" and "orange zones") at diplomatie.belgium.be.
A mandatory PCR test and quarantine of 14 days are required upon arrival or return from "red zones" (while they are recommended for "orange zones"). For "red zones", travel may not be possible or not authorised.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
From 1/8/20, all persons returning to Belgium and all persons travelling through Belgium and who are staying at least 48 hours must fill out a Passenger Locator Form.
Specific measures for Belgian residents exiting or returning to Belgium
Check the travel advice by country
Check the latest information on travel advice (with particular reference to "red zones" and "orange zones") at diplomatie.belgium.be.
Links to national sources
diplomatie.belgium.be
www.info-coronavirus.be
Documents you need to travel in Europe
Source: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/BEL
SOURCE: WCO/General Administration of Customs and Excise
17.04.2020
Protective equipment
Export
Despite the fact that procurement has increased and additional production has been
encouraged, the current level of Union production and existing stocks of protective
equipment will not be sufficient to meet the demand within the Union. Therefore, the EU
has issued Regulation 2020/402 of 14 March to control the export of protective
equipment.
For the Belgian Customs Administration, that means:
o Selection system does not release the items of the annex of the
regulation for export. Goods can only be cleared for export after verifying
officers confirm that the shipment does not contain protective equipment
OR if a license is available.
o The necessary capacity is provided for the control of the measures
o There is ongoing concertation with major Belgian industrial stakeholders
on the operational side of the regulation
o The competent authority provides certification for traders that are not
targeted by the regulation (e.g. protective gear for automotive industry
that has no medical use).
Import
The Belgian Customs Administration issued temporary measures to allow relief of VAT
and Customs duties for donations of equipment for the protection of personnel.
The relief is based on articles 57 – 58 of regulation 1186/2009.
Disinfectants, sanitizers, etc.
Pharmacists shall be allowed, as an exception and for a limited time, to store and use
ethanol. We do require the beneficiaries of the exceptional rules to hold a register.
As a second measure, to increase the production of base substances for disinfectant
sprays and liquids, the Belgian Customs Administration temporarily broadens the
products that can be used for denaturation for this purpose. This enables pharmacists
and hospitals to use alcohols to produce disinfectants based on stocks of available
alcohols that would otherwise receive another destination (industrial use, destruction,
etc.)
Measures for customs officers
The minister of Internal Affairs and Safety has listed the Customs Administration as an
essential service for the vital functions of the Kingdom of Belgium.
This means the Customs Administration will continue its core function of protecting the
interests of the Union and facilitate trade.
1. Measures aiming to Facilitate the Cross-border Movement of Relief and
Essential Supplies
1.1. Belgian Customs maintains presence and service at all points of entry
1.2. For hospitals, Belgian Customs has a procedure to rapidly identify the goods upon
arrival and confirm whether they are allowed on the EU market by the competent
authorities. The hotline can be reached 24/7.
1.3. There is a single point of contact to report possible bottlenecks on logistics. There
are weekly high level calls with representatives of the Belgian economic sector.
2. Measures aiming at Supporting the Economy and Sustaining Supply Chain Continuity
2.1. For the Customs Transit procedure, more flexibility has been allowed, respecting
the constraints of the European Union Customs Code.
2.2. Supply chains are disrupted because of the lockdown measures in multiple
countries. This leads to the build-up of stocks.
Temporarily, holders of Customs authorizations (inward processing, bonded
warehouse, etc.) can request an extension. The locations must be located in Belgium
and can only be used for goods that have not received a final customs destination yet.
3. Measures aiming at Protecting Customs administrations’ Staff
3.1. The Administration took severe measures for protection, based on the social
distancing principle. Field officers have reduced staff numbers to allow less
interaction. Teams work in the same composition as much as possible
3.2. Legislation, central services, litigation and prosecution, and all other non-first line
officers work from home.
3.3. As a general rule, every document or certificate can temporarily be scanned and
delivered to customs. Digital autographs are also accepted. The only exception is
documents that need a physical copy in thirds countries (e.g. proof of origin). See also
point 4.1.
4. Measures aiming at Protecting Society
4.1. As a general rule, Belgian customs delivers every document, authorization or
certificate digitally. The only exception is documents that need a physical copy in
thirds countries (e.g. proof of origin). See also point 3.3.
4.2. Belgian customs, in cooperation with the Federal and local police, guard the
national borders to prevent unnecessary travel, as is forbidden by national decree.
The officers that enforce normally work on internal controls, so this task does not
reduce the capacity of Belgian customs at the EU-borders (airports, ports)
4.3. Belgian customs has a stopping function for the controls on the quality of personal
protective equipment. There is cooperation with the competent authorities.
SOURCE: WCO/General Administration of Customs and Excise
20.03.2020
Belgian Customs Administration Corona Measures – best practices
Protective equipment
Export
Despite the fact that procurement has increased and additional production has been
encouraged, the current level of Union production and existing stocks of protective
equipment will not be sufficient to meet the demand within the Union. Therefore, the EU has
issued Regulation 2020/402 of 14 March to control the export of protective equipment.
For the Belgian Customs Administration, that means:
o Selection system does not release the items of the annex of the regulation for
export. Goods can only be cleared for export after verifying officers confirm
that the shipment does not contain protective equipment OR if a licence is
available.
o The necessary capacity is provided for the control of the measures
o There is ongoing concertation with major Belgian industrial stakeholders on
the operational side of the regulation
o The competent authority provides certification for traders that are not targeted
by the regulation (e.g. protective gear for automotive industry that has no
medical use).
Import
The Belgian Customs Administration issued temporary measures to allow relief of VAT and
Customs duties for donations of equipment for the protection of personnel.
The relief is based on articles 57 – 58 of regulation 1186/2009.
Disinfectants, sanitizers, etc.
Pharmacists shall be allowed, as an exception and for a limited time, to store and use
ethanol. We do require the beneficiaries of the exceptional rules to hold a register.
As a second measure, to increase the production of base substances for disinfectant sprays
and liquids, the Belgian Customs Administration temporarily broadens the products that can
be used for denaturation for this purpose. This enables pharmacists and hospitals to use
alcohols to produce disinfectants based on stocks of available alcohols that would otherwise
receive another destination (industrial use, destruction, etc.)
Measures for customs officers
The minister of Internal Affairs and Safety has listed the Customs Administration as an
essential service for the vital functions of the Kingdom of Belgium.
This means the Customs Administration will continue its core function of protecting the
interests of the Union and facilitate trade.
With this in mind, the Administration took severe measures for protection, based on the
social distancing principle. Legislation, central services, litigation and prosecution, and all
other non-first line officers work from home. Field officers have reduced staff numbers to
allow less interaction.
Temporary and limited relaxation of the enforcement of driving and rest times for drivers
Belgium has notified a temporary and limited relaxation of the enforcement of driving and rest times for the drivers involved in the supply chain relating to essential goods and medicine. This relaxation is granted pursuant to Article 14(2) of Regulation (EC) No 561/2006.
Start date: 19.03.2020
End date: 31.03.2020