Belgium
Safety and security
Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorism in Belgium
Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Belgium.
Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreign nationals such as:
- on public transport
- in national and international transport hubs
- in international institutions
- in places of worship
- in other places visited by foreigners
You should be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local authorities.
There have been some high-profile terrorist attacks across Belgium. The main threat is from extremists linked to Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL). Previous incidents have included fatal attacks against civilians and law enforcement:
-
On 16 October 2023, two people were killed and one seriously injured in a terrorism related shooting incident in Brussels
-
in 2022, a police officer was killed and another injured in a suspected terrorist incident in Brussels
-
in 2018, 2 police officers and a passer-by were killed in a shooting in the city of Liège in a suspected terrorist incident
The Belgian authorities have successfully disrupted various attack plans, making a number of arrests in recent years. The Belgian Government has set the national threat level at 3 ‘Serious’. You can expect to see an increased police presence, and additional safety measures may be in place. Be aware of your surroundings and follow the advice of local authorities.
Demonstrations and strikes
Demonstrations and strikes often take place in major cities, particularly in transport hubs and around the Schuman area (EU quarter) in Brussels.
Most demonstrations are peaceful, but there is a risk of unrest or violence. There has also been violence following major sporting fixtures. If you’re in areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place, remain vigilant and move away quickly if there are signs of disorder.
Demonstrations in the Schuman area of Brussels can affect access to the British Embassy and the British Consulate General.
Strike action can cause travel disruption across the country and affect international travel. For regular updates on any disruption, check local news and follow advice given by your travel provider.
For information on travel in Belgium, visit:
- Belgian Railways (train and metro travel)
- Brussels, Walloon and Flemish (regional public transport)
- HERE map
For international travel, visit:
Blocked roads and travel delays
Since mid-January, protests by farmers are taking place across Belgium. Action has included blocking major roads and delaying traffic, including on the edges of large cities. Monitor the media, avoid protests, expect delays on some major roads and follow the advice of the authorities.
Security Awareness
In the event of a security incident or any emergency, or if police carry out security operations at short notice, follow the instructions of the Belgian authorities.
You can:
- find information on the Belgian Crisis Centre website
- follow the Crisis Centre accounts on Twitter/ X or Facebook to follow official information in the event of a major national incident
- sign up to BE-Alert to receive emergency alerts via SMS
- look for the official communication and social media channels of local police for the area you are in.
Crime
Protecting your belongings
Theft and pickpocketing is common in crowded areas. Take care of your belongings and passports, particularly at train stations in Brussels.
If you are a victim of theft, contact the nearest police station and get a police report. If you lose your passport, you can also contact the British Embassy in Brussels.
Public transport
Take extra care in major railway stations and on public transport, particularly late at night. Thieves, pickpockets and muggers operate in busy areas, particularly:
- at Brussels Gare du Midi/Zuidstation (Eurostar terminal) and Brussels Gare du Nord
- on international trains, mainly Paris-Brussels and Amsterdam-Brussels
- in busy areas of central Brussels, including Schuman (the EU quarter)
There have been cases of violent crime around Brussels Gare du Midi/Zuidstation and Brussels Gare du Nord. Be aware of your surroundings.
Never leave luggage unattended. Luggage has been stolen from the racks at the end of carriages in high-speed trains (TGV and Thalys), usually just before the doors close.
Only use official, licensed taxis. Do not use taxis that you have not hailed.
Thieves, usually on motorbikes, can break a window and snatch valuables from the front or back passenger seat when a vehicle is stationary at traffic lights. If you see anything suspicious, report it to local police authorities.
Organised crime
There are regular incidents of violent crime among organised crime gangs involved in drug trafficking, particularly in Antwerp, Brussels and other large cities. The risk mostly affects those involved in drug crime, but remain vigilant if you suspect illegal activity. Follow the advice of local authorities.
There have been reports of truck and van drivers being approached at parking lots or service stations by organised crime groups and asked to smuggle products to the UK (‘window tapping’). If you see anything suspicious, report it to local police authorities.
Laws and cultural differences
Personal ID
By law, you must always carry identification with you, such as your passport or a national ID card.
Laws on clothing
It is illegal to wear clothing that hides your face partially or completely (for example, the burka and niqab) in public places. You risk a fine of up to 137.50 euros and detention for up to 7 days. There is no exemption for tourists.
Illegal drugs and prison sentences
Possession of drugs and trafficking in drugs are serious offences and can lead to a minimum 3-month prison sentence or fine.
Visiting battlefields
When visiting WW1 battlefields in north-west Belgium, stay on the footpath and be cautious if you see anything that looks like shells or munitions. Unexploded shells have recently been uncovered. Move away from the site and report incidents to the police.
Transport risks
Road travel
If you are planning to drive in Belgium, see information on driving abroad.
Belgium’s accident rate is high, mainly due to speeding.
Low emission zones
There are low emission zones in Brussels, Ghent and Antwerp. You need to pre-register foreign vehicles on the Brussels , Ghent or Antwerp websites.
Driving regulations
Driving laws differ from those in the UK. Be aware that:
- speed traps, cameras and unmarked vehicles are used by police
- speeding can result in an on-the-spot fine
- using a mobile phone while driving is illegal, unless you are using hands-free equipment
If you receive a fine, you can consult the federal justice service for information. See detailed government information on driving laws in Belgium (in Flemish and French only).
Licences and documents
When driving in Belgium, always carry:
- your driving licence
-
your car papers
- your insurance paper
- your MOT (‘contrôle technique’) certificate
- your passport or ID and those of your passengers
For information on requirements for residents, see living in Belgium.
Electric scooter regulations
The maximum speed limit for riding an electric scooter is 25km/h and riding with a passenger is illegal.
It is illegal for people aged 15 and under to use electric scooters, except in a few designated areas such as pedestrianised, private residential and recreational areas, and segregated cycle paths.