Belgium

The Belgian passport holds a global rank of 3rd, and gives citizens visa-free access to 119 countries. This strong position makes international travel much easier.

For many other destinations, a visa is still needed. Belgian travelers can apply online for an eVisa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in 53 countries. There are also 10 countries where Belgian citizens can enter with a Visa on Arrival (VOA), provided at the airport or land border at the time of entry.

Some countries still ask for a sticker or stamped visa. In these cases, Belgian citizens need to go to the embassy or consulate of that country. Many embassies also let you book an appointment online before you visit.

Regardless of all types of visa, travelers must carry a passport valid for at least six (6) months from the date of entry.

As a founding member of the European Union (EU), Belgium also provides its citizens with added travel advantages. Certain dignitaries and officials can benefit from the Visa Exemption Scheme, further simplifying their journeys.

Since requirements differ from one destination to another, it is always wise to check the visa rules of your chosen country before starting the application process.

An eVisa is a digital travel visa that must be applied for online. There is no need to visit an embassy or consulate to apply for this. Once approved, the document will be sent directly to your email. You can keep a digital copy or print a copy to show at the airport.

An ETA is slightly different. It is a travel permit that lets you enter a country without applying for a traditional visa beforehand. Like the eVisa, it can be applied for online and will be sent to your email.

But the main difference between eVisa and ETA is timing. An eVisa lets you travel whenever you choose within its validity, while an ETA usually has a set period during which you must arrive. If you miss that opportunity, your ETA will no longer be valid, and you’ll have to reapply.

Below is the list of 53 countries that currently offer an eVisa and ETA for Belgian citizens:

A Visa on Arrival (VoA) is a visa that travelers receive after landing at the airport or crossing the border of the destination country.

Since policies can change depending on immigration rules, it’s always best to confirm the latest VoA requirements before you start your trip.

The countries mentioned below allow Belgian citizens to get a VoA:

The Belgian passport is ranked 3rd in the world. And that gives its citizens the freedom to travel to 119 countries without a visa.

Here is a list of countries Belgian citizens can visit visa-free:

There are 16 countries where Belgian citizens must get a sticker visa before they can travel.

In certain countries, the visa process may be done online if their policy allows it. This may allow you to apply without visiting the embassy or sending your passport by mail.

For other destinations, you will need to apply in person at the embassy or consulate. It requires you to submit your visa form, documents, and passport directly to the embassy or consulate.

The length and type of visa you receive will depend on the purpose of your travel. Always review the country’s requirements carefully before starting your application.

Here is the list of 16 countries that require Belgian citizens to hold a visa:

Most countries have similar basic requirements when applying for a visa. Belgian citizens usually need to provide the following:

• Valid Passport: Your Belgian passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from the date you enter.
  
• Visa Application Form: A filled-out form that you complete online or take to the embassy or consulate. It asks for your personal details, travel plans, needed documents, and the reason you want to visit.
  
• Photographs: One or more recent passport-size photos (taken within the last three months) with a plain white background, clearly showing your face.
  
• Flight Tickets: Some countries may ask for proof of travel, such as your round-trip or onward flight tickets.
  
• Proof of Accommodation: You must provide details of where you will stay, such as a hotel booking, hostel reservation, or the address of family or friends.

Belgium is a founding member of the European Union (EU). Citizens of all EU member states, including Belgium, have been able to travel in any other EU country without a visa. 

The 27 EU member states are:

You can visit 198 countries with a Belgian passport. Ranked 3rd globally, it allows visa-free travel to 119 countries.

Belgian citizens can enter 119 countries without a visa. The full list of these destinations is provided above in the visa-free section.

Yes. Belgium permits dual and multiple citizenship. This means a Belgian can hold three or more passports if they also have other nationalities.

The easiest and most reliable proof of Belgian citizenship is your Belgian passport or national identity card, which is accepted worldwide.

Yes. Belgian law allows dual citizenship. You do not need to renounce your Belgian nationality if you gain another.

This depends on the country you are transiting through. Many countries do not require a visa for Belgian passport holders if they remain in the airport, but others may ask for a transit visa, especially if you change airports or leave the transit area.

Certain countries make travel insurance a mandatory requirement for visa approval. However, having travel insurance is strongly recommended for healthcare, trip delays, or emergencies.

Yes. Belgian citizens can renew their passports at any Belgian embassy or consulate abroad. An appointment is usually required, and you must present the necessary documents, including your current or expired passport.

First, report the loss or theft to the local police. Then, contact the nearest Belgian embassy or consulate. They can issue an emergency travel document or temporary passport so you can continue your journey or return home.