Do I Need ETIAS for Belgium? Everything You Should Know

Belgium is visited by millions of people each and every year and it’s no wonder. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning geography, it’s a popular destination.

European travel requirements continue to change and evolve, which leaves travelers of all backgrounds and ages with questions about their travel plans... like what is ETIAS? And do I need it for Belgium?

This article will give you all of the information you need to know about traveling to Belgium and ETIAS – whether or not you need it and what to do next.

Do I need ETIAS to visit Belgium?

Yes, from 2025 on, travelers who do not hold a Schengen visa/citizenship will need ETIAS.

This means that citizens from the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and other countries will need to apply for ETIAS before making their way to Belgium for short stays (including to popular cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges).

If you’re from one of the above countries and are planning a trip to Belgium that exceeds 90 days or is to work or study, instead of ETIAS, you need to apply for the appropriate Belgian visa. ETIAS is only for short trips for business or leisure.

If you are not from a visa-exempt country (such as China or India), you do not need ETIAS to visit Europe. Instead, you need a Schengen visa.

Do I need ETIAS if I have a Belgian visa?

No. If you currently have a valid visa for Belgium (or any country in the Schengen area for that matter), you do not need to apply for ETIAS. ETIAS is an “either/or” situation. Travelers need to either have a valid Belgium visa or ETIAS approval.

How to apply for ETIAS for Belgium

Applying for an ETIAS for your trip to Belgium is entirely online and should only take 10-20 minutes of your time.

Just follow a few simple steps:

• First, Fill out the form on ETIAS with your details, such as your name, travel details, nationality, and passport number
• Answer a few questions about your personal history. According to the official European Union website, you’ll be asked to share your parents’ first names, current occupation, and level of education. You’ll also be asked about any past criminal convictions.
• After answering a few questions, you’ll pay a small fee: There is an ETIAS application fee that can be paid using a credit or debit card (expect to pay 7 euros).
• Check your email. ETIAS approval is immediate in the majority of cases, and you will be notified by email. Keep in mind that, while uncommon, approval can take up to 30 days, so plan accordingly.

Your ETIAS for Belgium is valid for up to three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. When reapplying, simply follow the steps above again.

If I get an ETIAS for Belgium, can I travel to other Schengen countries with it?

According to the EU website, a valid ETIAS does permit you to travel throughout the Schengen area and Cyprus. With that being said, it does not guarantee entry. Border guards can still deny you entry.

ETIAS for Belgium: What to Know

• ETIAS is required for visitors to Belgium who do not have a Schengen visa/passport from 2025 on.
• The ETIAS application is online and only takes a few minutes.
• Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first.
• Belgian citizens and Schengen country citizens do not need ETIAS.
• Current Belgium visa holders do not need ETIAS.
• The ETIAS application costs 7 euros (but is free for those under the age of 18 or over 70).
• ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization that permits you to enter a Schengen country.
• ETIAS is valid for travel by air, land, or sea.
• ETIAS permits you to enter any Schengen country and Cyprus, but entry isn’t guaranteed and will be decided by local border guards.
• You can appeal a denied ETIAS application.
• Approval is usually immediate but can take up to 30 days, so plan accordingly.