ETIAS Belgium

Belgium is considered the political capital of Europe Union. Belgium is also one of the founding members of both the European Union and the Schengen Area. Its memberships dated back to 1958 and 1995 respectively.
Belgian territory severely suffered for terrorist attacks during the past few years, for this reason, the federal government is keen working on a solution for better managing inbound and outbound immigration together with other countries of the Schengen Area.

Entry-Exit system and ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) are the two legislative tools that will change the way to travel in Europe in the next years. Although their aim is similar, ETIAS will be focused mostly on short-term journeys.

Starting from 2021 all travelers above 18 years old will be able to apply online for the permission to travel to Belgium. The online application cost is €7 and once the authorisation is approved it will last for five years. The authorisation will also allow travelers from visa-exempted countries to travel in other Countries part of the Schengen Area without requiring any other travel documents. Although the online authorisation is valid for five years, the maximum duration of stay in the EU is 90 days in a consecutive period of 180 days. If the traveler plans to have a longer stay in the Schengen area, a visa is required.

Belgium is renowned for its medieval towns and Renaissance architecture. The Headquarters of the EU and NATO are located in Brussels, the country’s capital. Main attractions in Brussels include Grand Place, Mannekin Pis (Peeing Boy), Palace of Justice and Mini-Europe (theme park with miniatures). In Northern Flemish region, while Antwerp is well-known as the world diamond capital, the city of Brugge to the west is considered the Venice of Benelux. Liege in the south east claims the origin of the famous Belgian waffles. Although Belgium is a small country in size but it is famous for many things from sweet treats to its renowned beer brewery. Belgians take pride in their artisanal chocolate, sugar-crushed waffles, high-quality beer brewing and diamond cutting.
Dress to the weather: It is recommended to always bring with you a rainwear during summer and medium and heavyweights waterproof during winter. A sweater is useful anytime of the year.

Area: 30,510 KM2
Capital: Brussels
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Timezone: UTC/GMT +1 hour
Languages:

• Dutch 60%;
• French 40%;
• German less than 1%;
• Legally bilingual (Dutch and French)

Population: 10,403,000
Calling Code: +32
Power Sockets:

• E French 2-pin