UK Travel Warning: Belgium Braces for Major Transport Strikes

Charlie Belgium 20 April 2025 | Updated On April 22, 2025 | 0

Tourists heading to Belgium this April are being warned of major travel disruption as national rail and general strikes are set to impact the country on April 22 and April 29.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued an updated travel advisory, warning of “severe travel disruption” during both strike dates. Travellers may face delays, train cancellations, and restricted access to key areas in Brussels, especially the EU quarter, where the British Embassy and Consulate General are located.

The strikes are being organised by Belgium’s rail unions in protest against government plans to raise the retirement age, cut budgets, restructure HR Rail (the national railway employer), and increase workforce flexibility. These changes have sparked widespread opposition among public sector workers.

On April 22, rail services are expected to be heavily disrupted, while the general strike on April 29 could bring public transport across Belgium to a near standstill. Local media reports that the country has already seen 21 days of industrial action in 2025, severely affecting domestic and international travel.

The FCDO has also warned of possible demonstrations in central Brussels, particularly around Schuman, the heart of the EU institutions. Travellers are advised to stay alert, avoid large gatherings, and follow local authorities' instructions.

According to British officials, while most protests have remained peaceful, there is still a risk of unrest. UK nationals in Belgium are urged to check travel updates regularly and consider adjusting their plans to avoid disruption.

As strike tensions continue, tourists should prepare for changes and explore backup travel options if visiting Belgium in late April.

Belgium is one of those European gems that has it all—storybook canals, breathtaking architecture, and a festival calendar that keeps things buzzing year-round.

Do you have plans on visiting Belgium in the coming days? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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