Category: Belgium

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

Post-Brexit Shopping: What Travellers Must Know

Belgium’s customs service is reminding travellers that post-Brexit shopping rules apply when returning from the UK.  With the UK no longer in the EU, customs checks now cover all travellers, including those arriving by train, boat or plane. Duties and taxes are based on the total value of the goods, including any VAT already paid…
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Over 120,000 British Nationals Gain EU Citizenship Since Brexit

More than 120,000 British nationals have been naturalised in European countries since the 2016 Brexit referendum, according to the latest Eurostat data. Between 2016 and 2023, 110,295 British nationals obtained citizenship in EU member states, with Germany leading at 36,888, followed by France (20,966), Sweden (11,384), the Netherlands (9,000), and Belgium (7,741). An additional 11,000…
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EU Plans October Rollout for EES Biometric Border Checks

The EU’s long-delayed Entry/Exit System (EES) could finally launch in October, following an agreement reached between member states. The EES, designed to replace passport stamps for non-EU nationals, was initially set to begin last November but faced last-minute delays. Under the new plan—pending European Parliament approval—the system will be rolled out gradually over six months.…
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ETIAS Rollout: EU to Allow Entry Without Travel Authorisation for First Six Months

The EU Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs has confirmed that the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be introduced in phases, starting with a six-month transitional period. During this time, travellers should apply for ETIAS but will still be allowed entry without it, as long as they meet other entry requirements. ETIAS…
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National Strike to Ground All Flights at Brussels Airport

Travellers heading through Belgium this week should brace for major disruptions, as a national strike is set to bring Brussels Airport to a standstill.  Due to the national strike, Skeyes, Belgium’s air navigation service provider, has notified Brussels Airport that no air traffic will be permitted for 24 hours, from 10:00 PM on February 12…
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