Visiting Belgium

Last verified: February 3, 2026 2 min read

Entry requirements, visa information, and travel guide for Belgium

Quick Facts

Belgium is a Schengen Area member. Whether you need ETIAS, a Schengen Visa, or nothing at all depends on your nationality.

Capital Brussels

Currency EUR

Schengen Yes

Languages Dutch, French, German

About Belgium

Belgium is home to Brussels, the de facto capital of the European Union, as well as the beautifully preserved medieval city of Bruges. The country is celebrated for its chocolate, waffles, and world-renowned beer culture.

Belgium is a multilingual country with three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. Despite its small size, it offers diverse architecture, vibrant arts scenes, and easy rail connections to neighboring countries.

Capital Brussels

Currency EUR

Population 11.9 million

Languages Dutch, French, German

Entry Requirements for Belgium

EU/EEA citizens Travel freely with passport or national ID. No visa or ETIAS needed.
Visa-exempt nationals (US, UK, Canada, and others) No visa needed for stays up to 90 days. ETIAS required from Q4 2026 ({etiasFee
Visa-required nationals Schengen Visa required ({visaFee

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Plan Your Visit to Belgium

ETIAS Guide

New travel authorization for Europe

Schengen Visa

For visa-required nationals

90/180 Calculator

Track your allowed stay

Travel Insurance

Required for visa applications

Cities in Belgium

Antwerp Bruges Brussels Ghent

Travel Questions about Belgium

Do I need ETIAS to visit Belgium?

If you're from an ETIAS-eligible country (like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.), you will need ETIAS to visit Belgium starting Q4 2026. ETIAS costs €20 and is valid for 3 years.

Is Belgium part of the Schengen Area?

Yes. Belgium is a founding member of the Schengen Area since 1995. Brussels also hosts key EU institutions.

How long can I stay in Belgium without a visa?

Visitors from visa-exempt countries can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period in Belgium and the entire Schengen Area combined.

Do I need a visa for Belgium?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens from 59 countries (including US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan) don't need a visa for short stays. Others need a Schengen visa.

What languages are spoken in Belgium?

Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (Flemish) in the north, French in the south, and German in a small eastern region. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Prepare for Your Trip to Belgium

Valid passport (check requirements for your nationality)

Visa or ETIAS (depends on your nationality)

Travel insurance Get covered

eSIM for mobile data in Europe Get Saily

VPN for public WiFi security Get NordVPN

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