belgium air travel restrictions

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Belgium Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Belgium

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

Belgium entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Belgium from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belgium.

Can I travel to Belgium if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Belgium without restrictions.

Can I travel to Belgium without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Belgium without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Belgium?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Belgium.

Can I travel to Belgium without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Belgium?

Mask usage in Belgium is not required on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Belgium?

Restaurants in Belgium are open. Bars in Belgium are .

Arriving at Brussels Airport

Plan your arrival, transport from the airport.

• Travel requirements

Are you ready to arrive at Brussels Airport? You will need to collect your baggage, go to customs and maybe meet the person that picks you up.

Consult our Travel Planner to know all the details about your arrival at Brussels Airport.

Travel planner

Do you already know how you will get to your destination? There are several options.

Is someone picking you up at the airport? That person can park the car in the nearby car parks P1 or P2 across the terminal. You can meet each other in the Arrivals Hall.

Do you want to rent a car ? The rental desks are in the Arrivals Hall to the left. After you have passed these desks, you can go to the Rental Car Park. This is a short walk from the Arrivals Hall. Take the elevator or escalator to level 0 and follow the ‘Car Rental Parking’ signage. You can find more information  here

Looking for a taxi ? You can find the queue in front of the Arrivals Hall. In case you already reserved a taxi,the driver will be waiting for you at the Arrivals Hall.

The train station is located directly under the Departures and Arrivals Halls, at level -1.  Discover all the possibilities here .

Whether you want to book an intercity bus, a hotel shuttle or public bus transport, you can find all the options here .

Welcome to Belgium

As proud ambassador of our country, we would like to give you some tips for places to visit in Belgium. And Brussels Airport provides direct rail connections to the major tourist cities. Whether you want to discover the lively heart of Brussels, trendy Flemish cities or the beautiful countryside of Wallonia, it is all possible.

Discover Belgium

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coronavirus info

Dear future visitors, dear Brussels residents,  we wish you a pleasant visit to Brussels. Please follow the information available on this page to ensure a safe journey, taking into account the measures that are in force.

General rules

The following measures apply:  Wearing a mask (that covers both your nose and mouth) is only mandatory in health care facilities and pharmacies. Masks must be worn from the age of 12. There is no obligation in wearing a mask in public transport.

We would like to remind you that these measures are in addition to the 6 golden rules:

• Respect the health and safety measures;
• Outdoor activities are preferred to indoor ones;
• Pay special attention to vulnerable people;
• Respect 1m50 social distancing;
• Limit close contact with others;
• Follow the rules on gatherings.

To find out more, please consult the  SPF (Federal Public Services) COVID-19 website .

COVID Safe Ticket and COVID certificate

The Covid Safe Ticket (CST) is the variation of the European Covid certificate, intended for travel abroad. The use of the CST is currently suspended. 

More detailed information on the use of the Covid Safe Ticket in Brussels and on the certificates for travellers is available  here . 

Travel and moving

• If you are thinking of travelling in Belgium or coming back to Belgium after a trip abroad, you must read the  latest travel advice .
• The  Passenger Locator Form  (PLF) is no longer mandatory. 
• The requirement to be tested on the 1st and 7th day and the 10 day quarantine is removed. 
• There is no more requirement for people travelling to Belgium to have one of the three COVID-19 certificates (vaccination, test or recovery), unless it is required for travellers coming from a country with a new variant of concern. 
• If you are leaving Belgium, in order for you to find out about the situation in your destination country, consult the  Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs'  website.  

Transport : arrival to Brussels

When coming to Brussels by train, bus, plane or car it is strongly advised to check the latest information about your means of transport and the main places of arrival.

• Airplane : situation at  Brussels Airport  (Brussels Airport) and at  Brussels South Charleroi Airport  ;
• Train :  SNCB ,  Eurostar ,  Trainline  
• International bus services :  Flixbus

Transport : moving around Brussels

In Brussels, public transport flows swiftly. 

More information – Brussels public transport agency :  STIB  (bus, tramway, metro) ; and also  SNCB  (train),  De Lijn  (bus),  TEC  (bus).

You can also use taxi services and shared bikes or scooters.

Accomodation

• Hotels can welcome guests. However we invite you to check the opening of the hotel of your choice before your arrival.
• Other accomodations such as bed&breakfast or youth hostels may welcome guests. However we invite you to check with the establishment of your choice before your arrival.
• The camping sites are open.

Leisure : walks, visits, cultural, sporting and recreational activities

• City centre - When you move throughout Brussels, look through the webcam in order for you to visit the city centre safely:  Grand Place ,  De Brouckère Square . Check the people counting on Rue Neuve  here
• Museums are open to the public via their reservation system. 
• Bookshops, libraries, media and games libraries are open to the public.
• Discotheques and nightclubs are open.
• Party halls are open. 
• Casinos, bowlings and escape rooms are open.
• Cinemas, theatres and concert halls are open. A Covid Safe ticket or certificate is required. 
• Professional sports competitions may only take place with public. 
• All sports halls and fitness centers are open. A Covid Safe ticket or certificate will be required for access for all indoor sports and outdoor above 200 persons. 
• Swimming pools are open and community protocols regulate access and organisation.
• Spa and wellness centres are open.
• Funfairs are allowed. Applicable rules must be signposted at the entrance, at the stand or the attraction.
• Outdoors, you can enjoy a break sitting in a park, an outdoor playground or natural parks, as well as the outdoor spaces of sports centres to do sports alone.
• Animal parks are open. 
• Amusement parks are open.
• Guided tours are organised with a maximum of 200 people.

Shopping and services : Shops, markets, flea markets

• The various shops and night shops are open. 
• Hairdressers are open.
• Local markets are allowed following the conditions set by the municipalities.
• Flea markets and seasonal markets are allowed. 

HORECA : Cafés, bars, restaurants

• Bars and restaurants are open. (without time restrictions)
• In restaurants, meals can be ordered to take away upon the restaurant service hours. Hotel restaurants can provide room service meals for hotel guests.

Meetings: gatherings, events, fairs, trade shows, conferences, worship services and ceremonies

• Open air manifestations are allowed with with no limit on the maximum number of people.
• Public events are allowed indoors and outdoors. 
• Trade fairs, exhibitions, conferences and professional meetings indoors are allowed. 
• Team building activities are permitted. 
• Receptions, parties and banquets are permitted.
• Places of worship and public buildings are open.
• The maximum amount of guests for civil weddings, religious ceremonies, funerals and cremations for indoor events for outdoor events is abolished.

Work and schools

• Working from home is recommended in the private sector and in all public administrations, unless the nature of the function or the continuity of the activities do not allow it. 
• Schools are open and operate according to the rules for respective education levels.  

Hygiene measures

Please note that basic hygiene measures remain valid, such as washing hands with soap, coughing and sneezing into the crook of the elbow and avoiding close contact. If you need medical advice, we recommend that you contact your doctor by phone or visit  http://doctorbrussels.be .

Travellers: Instructions in case of suspected Covid-19

If you have fever and/or difficulty breathing or other symptoms that suggest you have Covid-19, you are instructed to quarantine yourself in your accommodation. Your accommodation should provide a room with a means of isolation to avoid contact with other people. You can also contact your consulate or embassy. If you have any further questions, please also check  www.info-coronavirus.be   for the latest updates and news.

Additional information sources

• Brussels information portal on the coronavirus -  coronavirus.brussels
• Frequently asked questions  (FAQ) to the Federal Public Service (FPS) Public Health, Safety of the Food Chain and Environment
• Situation in Belgium and recommendations of the Belgian government : Federal Public Service (FPS) Public Health, Safety of the Food Chain and Environment
• Recommendations of the World Health Organisation  (WHO)
• Recommendations of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control  (ECDC, European Agency)
• European Commission / Public Health website
• Re-open EU  platform - with information on borders, available (public) transport, travel restrictions, public health and safety measures such as distance rules or protective masks. It also provides practical information for travellers, such as beaches, cafés or restaurants open in summer.

We remind you that these measures applied in Brussels are being regularly updated. For more information on the situation in Belgium, please consult the  SPF (Federal Public Services) COVID-19 website .

As for us, at visit.brussels, we will continue to support you and will handle all your requests. Do you have a specific question? Our welcome offices and the exhibition  experience.brussels  are open. We will be happy to help you. Contact us by chat via our homepage or by phone on +32 2 513 89 40 from 09:30 to 17:30 during the week and from 10:00 to 18:00 during the weekends and on bank holidays.

Look after yourselves and others!

coronavirus.brussels

Brussels information portal on the coronavirus

Rules for travelling

Find out here which Covid measures apply when you are travelling abroad or returning to Belgium. We also explain which conditions apply for obtaining the 2 free PCR tests. 

• To plan your trip within Europe, please check the  Reopen Europe
• Do you want to know the color code of your destination country/region? You can find this information on the  federal website .
• Coming back from abroad? This  summary made by Sciensano  might be of interest to you (available in French, Dutch and German).
• If you are looking for even more information, please visit the website Info Coronavirus.  

Free PCR tests prior to travel

Do you have travel plans this summer and do you need to take a PCR test before you leave? Since 26 June, you can, in certain cases, request 2 activation codes for 2 free PCR tests.

Who is eligible for the free PCR tests?

The free PCR tests prior to travel are intended for people who have not yet had the opportunity to be (fully) vaccinated.

Specifically, you must meet the following conditions:

• You are 6 years of age or older
• You have your main residence in Belgium
• You have not yet received an invitation for vaccination OR you were invited for vaccination once, less than 35 days ago, and have not yet received your second invitation OR you got your first dose less than 35 days after receiving the first invitation, but you have not yet been fully vaccinated.

If you have not yet been fully vaccinated, you are entitled to 2 free PCR tests until the moment you are considered fully vaccinated. In practice, this means:

• AstraZeneca: you received your 1 st dose less than 98 days ago (if your 1 st  dose was administered before 25 May), or less than 70 days ago (if your 1 st  dose was administered after 25 May)
• Pfizer: you had your first dose less than 49 days ago (if your 1 st dose was administered before 13 July) or less than 35 days ago (if your 1 st  dose was administered on or after 13 July)
• Moderna: you had your first dose less than 49 days ago
• Johnson&Johnson: you received your single dose less than 28 days ago

Please note : if you had your first dose more than 35 days after receiving your first invitation, you are not entitled to free PCR testing.

How can I request my free PCR tests?

1. Request your free test code via your personal file on www.masante.belgique.be or www.mijngezondheid.belgie.be . You can only request test codes for yourself and your children.

2. Go to brussels.testcovid.be to book your test appointment. During the booking process you have to enter the code for the free PCR test.

3. Go to the test center of your choice, at the chosen time, to get your free PCR test.

Where can I find my test results?

You will find the result of your PCR test in your file on  www.brusselshealtnetwork.be  or www.masanté.belgique.be or   www.mijngezondheid.belgie.be .

Log on with your national number or with your test code if you do not have a Belgian national number.

Validity of the free codes

You can only use the free test codes for PCR tests carried out in Belgium in the context of a trip abroad. You can’t use these codes for a PCR test that you have to get abroad in order to return to Belgium.

If you have to be tested again upon arrival in Belgium, based on the answers on your PLF form, you will receive a test code by SMS and the test will be free of charge (for those who are registered with Belgian mutual health insurance fund).

Be careful! Once you have requested your test code, it is only valid for 10 days. This means you have to get tested within 10 days after requesting your test code. If you wait longer than these 10 days, the code will lose its validity.

Once you have requested a code, it is considered used, even if you do not use it to book an appointment. Please only request a code for a free PCR test if you intend to get tested within 10 days.

If you are not entitled to a free PCR test because you do’ot meet the conditions, or because you have already used your two free codes, you are still eligible for a paying PCR test prior to travel. For this kind of tests, you also need to make an appointment in advance via  www.brussels.testcovid.be

Reminder: It is still recommended to wear a mask in healthcare settings and in crowded places such as public transport

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What are Belgium's new corona restrictions?

From 20 November Belgium is (re)introducing a raft of measures to stem the spread of coronavirus. The consultative committee that groups the various governments and has the final say on restrictions convened at 2:30PM on Wednesday.

Face coverings become mandatory in indoor public spaces: on public transport, in hospitality, at health care centres, at events both indoor and outdoor, in shops and malls, in public buildings and businesses where there is public access, in libraries, at gyms and places of worship.

Down the pub and in restaurants customers will once again have to don a face covering unless they are seated.   You will need to mask as you enter, when you stand up or use the facilities at all hospitality venues. The measure comes in addition to the requirement to show a green Covid Safe Ticket.

At the disco you will have to present your Covid Safe Ticket and take a self-test or don a face covering if you wish to dance.  Cafés where dancing is permitted need to follow the rules for hospitality: face coverings will be required while you dance.

The age at which children are obliged to wear a face covering is being lowered to ten years of age - down from 12. Education ministers will decide the exact modalities of face covering wearing in schools.

The Covid Safe Ticket and face coverings will be required at public and private events for 50 and more people indoors and 100 and more people outdoors, but also in hospitality when you are not seated, in theatres, concert halls, cultural centres, cinemas, museums and indoor amusement arcades.

Four days of homeworking a week become obligatory till 12 December.   After 12 December three days of homeworking a week will be required. Businesses where this is not possible will enjoy an exemption.

The measures will apply till 28 January.

In the next ten days ministers will finalise plans for a booster or third jab to be offered to everybody by the end of March or April. Over 65s and health care workers are first in line. People who received the Janssen vaccine (Johnson & Johnson) or the AstraZeneca vaccine will be next. The booster jab is a dose of Pfizer or Moderna.

Prime Minister Alexander De Croo (Flemish liberal) told a news conference in Brussels that the map of Europe was colouring red as a result of an increase in infections.   He said Belgium wasn’t escaping the new advance of the virus and that measures were needed.   “Fortunately, nine out of ten people are vaccinated and this means that no new lockdown is required.   The vaccine lessens the severity of the illness, but doesn’t rule it out altogether” Mr De Croo said.

He spoke of health care workers, who were tired as they faced yet another wave, and said he understood people were frustrated.   He too would have preferred a winter without corona, but the delta variant was three times more contagious.   The prime minister said an effort from everybody was required and that the most important thing was to reduce contacts.

The premier insisted on four basic rules: limit your contacts as much as possible and meet up outside, keep a physical distance, wear a face covering and ventilate indoor spaces.

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Belgium announces latest rules for international travel

Belgium gave the official go-ahead for the announced relaxations from 9 June and introduced the latest travel rules, announced Prime Minister Alexander De Croo during a press conference on Friday.

"Today, the Consultative Committee mainly looked ahead, towards a summer of which we have already had a taste in the past few days, thanks to the better weather," De Croo said.

"The fact that we can look forward with fewer worries is because we have all behaved safely in recent weeks, but also because of the vaccination campaign," he said. "This was truly a collective effort."

"The figures show this positive development," De Croo said. "That is why we have decided to continue with the first stage of the summer plan. " 

From Wednesday 9 June, bars, restaurants and all other businesses in the hospitality industry will be allowed to also open their indoor areas to clients.

Both the indoor areas and the terraces can already open as early as 5:00 AM, and can stay open until 11:30 PM . The current rules will continue to apply: a maximum of four people at a table (unless your household is bigger), with tables 1.5 metres apart.

"The main focus of this meeting, however, was on travel," De Croo.

The rule remains that people returning from a green or orange zone do not have to undergo a quarantine period. "This was already the case today, and this stays the same."

From 1 July , travelling to and from red zones will be possible with the European Digital Covid Certificate for travel within the EU. "If you are a Belgian resident and you return from a red zone (in the EU), you can do so with that certificate without further obligations," he said.

"The condition is that you have been fully vaccinated for at least two weeks (two shots, except with the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine), or that you can present a negative PCR test or a recovery certificate," De Croo said.

Those who have not been fully vaccinated for at least two weeks will still have to get a PCR test, starting from children aged 12.

However, the government has put an "emergency brake" on the spread of infectious and dangerous variants, meaning that Belgian residents must always observe a 10-day quarantine if they return after having been in a high-risk area in the past two weeks.

This applies to everyone, including those who have been vaccinated, De Croo stressed. Non-Belgian residents who come from such a high-risk area are not allowed to enter.

Additionally, to make sure everything happens safely in the coming months, the Consultative Committee also issued ten basic "tips" for everyone:

1. Get vaccinated,

2. Observe the hygiene measures: wash your hands regularly, sneeze in your elbow,

3. Get tested if you feel sick,

4. Do a self-test if you have not yet been vaccinated. "It is just polite when you visit someone,"

5. Give preference to outdoor activities,

6. Choose smaller groups. "The risk of infection is lower in groups of five than in groups of 50,"

7. In a group where everyone has been vaccinated, you can remove the face masks,

8. Keep ventilating rooms,

9. Keep the social distance as much as possible,

10. Use the Digital Covid Certificate when travelling, and follow the rules in the country you are visiting.

"If we keep this in mind, we can look forward to a beautiful summer without too many worries," De Croo said. "Do not forget to enjoy it. It has been a difficult period."

"Initially, it was decided to keep the different closing hours for the hospitality industry," said Flemish Vice Minister-President Hilde Crevits. "However, due to the progress of the vaccination campaign and the upcoming European Football Championship, it was decided to opt for the same hour after all."

"The European Football Championship could cause people sitting outside and inside to mix in case of different hours," she said, adding that "the government does not want to take that risk."

Additionally, people will also be allowed to physically go to work one day a week again from 9 June, confirmed Crevits. As of July, teleworking rules may be further relaxed.

"It is a necessity for people who have been working from home for months, or even a year, that they can now go to work one day a week again," she said. "It does require a great deal of responsibility from employers and employees."

"The efforts we have all made mean that we have all lived very cautiously in recent months," said Federal Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke. "The good results now are due to the vaccination campaign, but also to that caution."

"The ten recommendations that the Prime Minister made just now are actually another call to continue that caution ," he added. "With more freedom comes greater personal responsibility."

"We must also protect this freedom. We must protect it against the import of viruses from other countries. That is why we still want to be strict with regard to travellers entering our country," Vandenbroucke said, referring to the conditions applying for children from 12 years old.

"Some neighbouring countries will also impose these requirements for children from 6 years old," he said. "These children will not have been vaccinated, and neither will a number of other people, and it would be unfair to make it difficult for these people."

"Therefore, we are proposing that children aged 6 to 17, and adults, will have two free PCR tests available from 1 July until the end of September," Vandenbroucke said. "We are trying to be economical, so two tests for adults only if they have not yet received an invitation to get vaccinated."

"In concrete terms: if you have not yet received a date for your second dose - or for your only dose of Johnson & Johnson - you are entitled to free two PCR tests," Vandenbroucke said. "The offer will remain valid for three weeks after you have received a date. It will be an easy system, with a code."

From 13 August, mass events in the open air, like Pukkelpop, can take place with 75,000 visitors again, he specified. Attendees have to present a Covid Safety Ticket (showing that they have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks previously), or a negative Covid-19 test before entry. Offering rapid antigen tests on-site could also be a possibility.

The next Consultative Committee meeting will be held on Friday 11 June, when the next stages of the "Summer Plan" from July will be fleshed out.

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Belgium Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from India to Belgium

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

Ready to travel?

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Can I travel to Belgium from India?

Most visitors from India, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belgium.

Can I travel to Belgium if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from India can enter Belgium without restrictions.

Can I travel to Belgium without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from India can enter Belgium without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Belgium?

Visitors from India are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Belgium.

Can I travel to Belgium without quarantine?

Travellers from India are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Belgium?

Mask usage in Belgium is not required on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Belgium?

Restaurants in Belgium are open. Bars in Belgium are .

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• COVID-19 travel restrictions: Belgium
• < Travel restrictions

Travel restrictions

By Kiwi.com March 9, 2022

By Kiwi.com | March 9, 2022

Last update: April 6, 2022

This article was published on March 9, 2022, and all the information in the article is correct as of this time. Before you book your trip, we highly recommend that you also check official sources for the most up-to-date travel requirements, as they are subject to constant change.

Can I enter Belgium?

As of the beginning of 2022, you can enter Belgium. Nevertheless, please check the COVID-19 restrictions in place.

All foreign travelers coming to Belgium from a country outside the EU have to complete a Passenger Located Form within six months before arriving in Belgium.

Can I enter Belgium if I am vaccinated?

You can enter Belgium if you are fully vaccinated. You can be considered fully vaccinated if you have received both doses of double-dose vaccination or one dose of single-dose vaccination at least 14 days before arriving in Belgium.

As of January 2022, five vaccines are approved in Belgium:

• Pfizer/BioNTech (Comirnaty)
• AstraZeneca / Oxford (Vaxzevria)
• Janssen / Johnson & Johnson

Travel documents if you are vaccinated

If you are fully vaccinated, you have to present:

• A certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19 in paper or electronic format (the EU digital COVID certificate is also valid)

Can I enter Belgium if I am unvaccinated?

You can enter Belgium if you are unvaccinated. 

Travel documents if you are unvaccinated

If you are unvaccinated, make sure to present at boarding one of the following documents:

•  A negative PCR test no older than 72 hours or a RAT test no older than 24 hours
•  A certificate of recovery from COVID-19 that is no more than 180 days old

Traveling to Belgium from “red” and “non-red” countries

Presently, Belgium divides countries into different categories listed below. 

“Dark red” EU countries

• Andorra 
• Austria 
• Bulgaria 
• Croatia 
• Cyprus 
• Czech Republic 
• Finland 
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Norway (Oslo and Viken, Western Norway, Adger and South Eastern Norway)
• Switzerland
• Vatican City

“Grey” EU countries

• Norway (Trøndelag, Innlandet, Northern Norway)

“Green” EU countries

All the EU countries that are neither in the “red,” nor in the “grey” list.

“Very high-risk” European countries

There are no countries on the list currently.

“White” non-EU countries

• Hongkong Special Administrative Region
• Macau Special Administrative Region
• New Zealand
• Saudi Arabia
• South Korea
• Taiwan  
• United Arab Emirates

“Dark red” non-EU countries

All other territories that are not in the “white” list are considered “dark red” countries.

“Very high-risk” non-European countries

Who cannot enter belgium.

Travelers from these categories cannot enter Belgium:

• Unvaccinated non-European residents traveling from “red” non-EU countries (entry is permitted only for essential purposes)
• All foreign travelers from “very high-risk” non-European countries

Can I leave Belgium?

There are no tight restrictions for leaving Belgium.

Travel documents if I am vaccinated

• A certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19 in paper or electronic format

Travel documents if I am unvaccinated

If you are unvaccinated, please present one of the following documents:

• A certificate of recovery from COVID-19 (no more than 180 days old before the day of crossing the border of a particular country)
• A negative COVID-19 test result (the relevant period and kind of test may vary, please check the requirements of the destination country)

COVID-19 situation in Belgium currently

As of January 2022, the COVID-19 situation in Belgium is moderate. 

Is it safe to travel to Belgium right now?

International travel to Belgium is possible. Nevertheless, please adhere to basic regulations, like wearing masks and quarantine-related requirements.

Is Brussels open for travel?

Presently, Brussels is open for travelers. Countrywide COVID-19-related restrictions in the capital are also in place.

Do I have to quarantine if I go to Belgium?

You are obliged to self-isolate only if you have a compelling reason and arrive from a “very high-risk” country outside the EU. You have to:

• Self-isolate for 10 days
• Undergo a PCR test on day one and seven

In addition, arrivals from a “very high-risk” country inside the EU have certain requirements:

• Get tested (PCR) up to 72 hours before arrival or get tested (PCR) on arrival and self-isolate until the results are received
• Take one more test on day seven

All other travelers are exempt from quarantine in Belgium. The list of countries is presented at the “Traveling to Belgium from “red” and “non-red” countries” section.

How do I get a health pass to travel to Belgium?

It would greatly benefit you to install the EU Digital COVID Certificate when traveling from the EU and Schengen Area countries. If you are traveling from outside the countries mentioned above, please carry your paper documents.

What are the most popular direct flights to Belgium?

Here are the top five cities you can fly from directly to Belgium:

What are the biggest international airports in Belgium?

These are the top three biggest international airports in Belgium:

• Brussels South Charleroi airport (CRL)
• Antwerp International airport (ANR)
• Brussels Airport (BRU)

Useful links

• Belgium COVID-19: a guide for travelers 
• Belgium Passenger Locator Form

Do you want more travel restrictions articles? Visit our   Travel Restriction section at Kiwi.com Stories

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Belgium travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:21 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, belgium - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Belgium due to the threat of terrorism.

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Increase in drug-related violence

There has been an increase in violence, including stabbings and shootings, linked to the drug trade in Brussels and other major cities.

In February 2024, shootings have occurred in the commune of Brussels, in the Marolles neighbourhood, and around the following locations in the commune Saint-Gilles:

• Port-de-Hal
• Gare du Midi
• Place Jacques Franck

If you are in Brussels:

• be aware of your surroundings
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• expect a heightened police presence in certain areas

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, particularly in major cities, at popular tourist sites such as the Grand-Place (Grote Markt) in Brussels.

Pickpockets also target passengers in transportation hubs such as:

• train stations

Incidents of petty crime on trains along the Paris–Brussels–Amsterdam and Brussels–London routes are frequent, as well as at the following train stations:

• Gare de Bruxelles-Nord (Noordstation)
• Gare de Bruxelles-Centrale (Centraalstation)
• Gare de Bruxelles-Midi (Zuidstation)

While in Belgium:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times, particularly on public transportation
• take extra precautions on trains, as criminals often steal carry-on luggage from overhead compartments or from below seats
• never leave your luggage unattended
• keep car windows and doors locked at all times
• don’t leave any valuables in plain sight inside of vehicles
• be cautious of distraction tactics employed by criminals, such as spilling drinks, engaging you in lengthy conversations, posing odd questions, or offering to assist you unprompted

Violent crime

Violent crime is uncommon. However, incidents have been on the rise. Armed robbers and organized gangs have targeted jewellers, banks and individuals carrying cash and valuables.

• Don’t carry large amounts of cash
• Use caution when using ATMs, especially after dark

Organized gangs use the ports in the North of the country to conduct criminal activities such as smuggling, notably the trafficking of illicit drugs. This is particularly prevalent at the North Sea ports of Ostend and Antwerp. Clashes between rival gangs have lead to violent incidents in Antwerp and its suburbs, including explosive attacks and shootings. Always be aware of your surroundings.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others, and don’t let servers or merchants take your card out of sight
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• check ATMs or other machines for skimmers or removable readers, and avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.

In Belgium, separate attacks causing multiple deaths and injuries have taken place. Further attacks in Belgium cannot be ruled out. Further attacks elsewhere in Europe are also likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events, and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Enhanced security measures

Following a shooting in Brussels in October 2023, the national threat level increased to level 3 on a scale of 4.

Expect heightened security measures, including:

• an increased police presence across the country
• increased caution and scrutiny from security forces
• potential added security measures in certain places

Public alert system

The Government of Belgium maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media and social media.

Useful links

• Register with the Belgian Public Alert System (BE-Alert) - Belgian Crisis Centre
• Current terrorism threat levels - Belgian Crisis Centre
• @CrisiscenterBE - Belgian Crisis Centre (in French)

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place frequently, especially in Brussels in the city centre and the European Quarter. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are very good throughout the country.

The “priority to the right” system is in effect in Belgium.  Drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections. This is often a surprise to foreign drivers and results in accidents.

Familiarize yourself with the “priority to the right” system.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Belgian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

Belgium is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Student visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Work visa: required

Other requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Travel health insurance

When arriving in Belgium, visitors must show proof of travel health insurance covering the possible costs medical evacuation and emergency medical care.

The insurance must be valid throughout the territory of the Schengen States for the duration of the intended stay or transit. The minimum coverage is 30,000 euros.

Letter of support

If you plan to stay in private accommodations, you must show an invitation with proof of address or a letter of support from a local guarantor.

This letter of support must be issued prior to the date of travel.

Letters of support - Office des étrangers, Government of Belgium (In French)

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent in Belgium. Service is available throughout the country.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Belgium are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Belgium to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Belgium authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to show them appropriate identification at any time.

• Carry adequate identification, such as a passport or a residence permit
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it is lost or seized

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Belgium.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Belgium, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Belgium.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Belgium, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Belgian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Belgium to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You must be at least 18 years of age to drive a car in Belgium.

You should carry an international driving permit.

If you have obtained residence status in Belgium, your Canadian driver’s license will no longer be valid. You may convert your Canadian license to a Belgian licence before the date of expiry if it was issued by one of the following provinces:

• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Nova Scotia
• Saskatchewan

You can exchange the license in the municipality where you reside.

• Driving in Belgium - European Commission
• International Driving Permit
• Recognized Canadian driver's licenses - Service public fédéral Mobilité et Transports (in French)

The currency of Belgium is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Belgium has a temperate climate with little variation from one region to another.

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains, particularly in spring and summer, can cause severe flooding and landslides. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Flooding - Belgian crisis centre

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 101
• all other emergencies: 112

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Belgium, in Brussels, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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U.s. citizens in haiti, update april 12, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Belgium Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, belgium - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to  terrorism.

Country Summary : Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Belgium. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting, music, and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Belgium.

If you decide to travel to Belgium:   

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Belgium.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, belgium map, search for travel advisories, external link.

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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Pet travel from the United States to Costa Rica

Welcome! This page will guide you through the rules and requirements for traveling internationally with your pet.

Before You Start the Process

Find a usda-accredited veterinarian.

With help from a USDA-accredited veterinarian , you can learn more about your destination country's entry requirements for pets, including any needed vaccinations, tests, or treatments. We recommend creating a schedule to make sure you meet all requirements within the specified timeframe.

Gather This Information for Your USDA-Accredited Veterinarian

• The type of pet traveling
• The destination country
• If applicable, countries where your pet will stop (for customs clearance or upon leaving the airport or seaport) on the way to the destination country
• The date of departure from the United States
• Whether the pet will be traveling alone, as cargo, or with a person in the cabin of the plane
• Note: If you're traveling with a pet bird or exotic animal, you may need to work with additional agencies, such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (1.41 MB) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

Read These Resources

• In Spanish (En Español): Guía de viaje para mascotas que viajan a otro país desde Estados Unidos
• In Chinese (用中文（表達): 宠物出国旅行指南
• Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling With Your Pet

Travel Requirements Based on Pet Type

An import permit issued by Costa Rica is required for unaccompanied pets. Requirements for traveling with your pet are described in the health certificate. APHIS endorsement of the health certificate is required after it has been issued by a USDA Accredited Veterinarian.

Note : If you prefer not to use the health certificate model provided here, APHIS has confirmed Costa Rica will accept an APHIS 7001 form which meets the same requirements as the posted model certificate.

International Health Certificate (293.62 KB)

International Health Certificate (204 KB)

Costa Rica does not allow for the importation of pet birds.

For pet travel requirements not listed, APHIS has not been officially informed by the foreign country about the requirements for your pet’s travel. We recommend that you contact a government official of the country you are traveling to for more information.

Country of Destination Contact Information

World Organisation for Animal Health: Members

U.S. Department of State: Foreign Embassies and Consulates

Countries Participating in the European Union

Austria Belgium Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia

Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Republic of Ireland Italy Latvia

Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands Northern Ireland * Norway ** Poland Portugal

Romania Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland **

* Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom (UK), but will continue to follow European Union (EU) requirements even though the UK is no longer part of the EU. ** Norway and Switzerland are not part of the EU but have adopted EU legislation for import of most species of live animals.

Important Travel Considerations

If you are transiting (passing through) the european union:.

If your pet is traveling through (transiting) a country in the European Union (EU) on the way to a third, non-EU country, you will also need a transit health certificate for your pet for the EU. The transit health certificate will be the same as if your pet’s final destination was the EU country. Use the information and steps above under “Travel Requirements Based on Pet Type” to determine which health certificate should be used. View a list of EU countries .

Considerations for airline travel:

Airlines and shipping lines have their own policies and requirements for transporting pets. Check with your airline or shipping representative to determine what requirements they may have.

View additional information for pet owners, airlines, and others about APHIS endorsement of international health certificates .

Will you be returning to the United States with your pet?

View the Requirements ALERT: Read the CDC Notice of Temporary Suspension of Dogs Entering the United States From Countries Classified as High Risk for Dog Rabies .

Information for Accredited Veterinarians

Green banner country.

For Accredited Veterinarians: Electronic signature ACCEPTED

For APHIS VMO: Digital endorsement ACCEPTED

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USDA-accredited veterinarians can submit health certificates for electronic signature through VEHCS (Veterinary Export Health Certification System).

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The U.S. issues new travel guidelines, warning that Iran will avenge the killings of senior commanders.

The State Department has barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel. Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back over the deadly bombing this month of an Iranian Embassy complex in Syria.

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By Liam Stack and Eric Schmitt

• April 12, 2024

Several countries including the United States have issued new travel guidelines for Israel and the surrounding region, as the Israeli military said its forces were “highly alert” for a possible Iranian strike in retaliation for the killings of several commanders.

Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back at Israel over the bombing of an Iranian Embassy complex in Damascus, Syria, this month that killed three generals and four other military officers. An American official said on Friday that Washington expects an attack by Iran against Israel that would be bigger than recent attacks in the long shadow war between the two countries, but not so big that it would draw the United States into war. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.

The U.S. State Department on Thursday barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel, the first time the U.S. government had restricted the movement of its employees in this way since the war in Gaza began more than six months ago.

On Thursday, Britain told its citizens that they “should consider leaving” Israel and the Palestinian territories “if it is safe to do so.” On Friday, India told its citizens “not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice,” while France advised people not to travel to Israel, Iran or Lebanon and evacuated the families of French diplomats from Iran.

Asked about the U.S. travel warning , Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesman, said at a news briefing Thursday: “We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days.” He declined to provide details about any specific information that prompted the warning.

The new guidelines bar U.S. government employees and their families from traveling to locations outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheba metropolitan areas “out of an abundance of caution” until further notice. The State Department said U.S. personnel could move among those areas for personal travel.

The top American military commander for the Middle East, Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, traveled to Israel to coordinate a response to possible Iranian retaliation, U.S. officials said.

“Our enemies think that they will divide Israel and the United States,” the Israeli defense minister, Yoav Gallant, said in a statement on Friday after meeting with General Kurilla. “They are connecting us and are strengthening the relationship between us.”

If Iran attacks, he added, “we will know how to respond.”

On Thursday, the Israeli military’s chief spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said that the armed forces were “highly alert and prepared” for any action Iran might take, even as the timing and scale of any response remained unclear. Analysts say that Tehran, which has long used a network of proxy forces to project power across the Middle East, wants to avoid igniting a full-fledged war that could drag in the United States and threaten the survival of Iran’s regime.

“For years, and even more so during the war, Iran has been financing, directing and arming its proxies — in Lebanon, Gaza, Syria, Iraq and Yemen — to attack the state of Israel,” he said. “An attack from Iranian territory would be clear evidence of Iran’s intentions to escalate the Middle East and stop hiding behind the proxies.”

Liam Stack is a Times reporter covering the Israel-Hamas war from Jerusalem. More about Liam Stack

Eric Schmitt is a national security correspondent for The Times, focusing on U.S. military affairs and counterterrorism issues overseas, topics he has reported on for more than three decades. More about Eric Schmitt

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

The disappearance and death of an Israeli teenager, whose body was found in the West Bank , spurred deadly rioting by Israeli settlers in Palestinian villages, ratcheting up tensions  even further in the occupied territory.

For months, Western governments have sent weapons to Israel while fending off accusations of abetting war crimes in Gaza. But as an outcry over the civilian death toll mounts, maintaining that balance is becoming increasingly difficult .

Mobilizing the American Left: As the death toll in Gaza climbed, the pro-Palestinian movement grew into a powerful, if disjointed, political force in the United States . Democrats are feeling the pressure.

Riding Rage Over Israel: Jackson Hinkle’s incendiary commentary  has generated over two million new followers on X since October — a surge that some researchers say is aided by inauthentic accounts by the online celebrity.

Psychedelics and Trauma: Thousands of festival-goers were using mind-altering substances when Hamas-led fighters attacked on Oct 7. Now, scientists are studying the effects of such drugs at a moment of trauma .

Turmoil at J Street: The war in Gaza has raised serious concerns within the Jewish political advocacy group about its ability to hold a middle position  without being pulled apart by forces on the right and the left.

LIVE UPDATES

Israel-Gaza live updates: WH says it's up to Israel how to respond to Iran's attack

Iran launched more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel, the IDF said.

Iran on Saturday night unleashed a retaliatory strike against Israel , sending a volley of more than 300 uncrewed drones and missiles toward targets throughout the country, Israeli military officials said. All but a few were intercepted by Israel and its allies, including the United States, officials said.

The attack on Israel came more than six months after Hamas terrorists invaded the country on Oct. 7, after which the Israeli military began its bombardment of the Gaza Strip.

Latest headlines:

Israeli war cabinet to reconvene monday to consider response, half of ballistic missiles launched at israel failed: officials.

• Congressional party leaders reach 'consensus' on aid to Israel and Ukraine, Schumer says

Minor damage reported at 2 Israeli air bases

• Biden speaks with Jordanian king as G7 leaders condemn Iranian attack

Iran's attack on Israel, by the numbers

Israeli officials said the country's Iron Dome defense system endured a big test from Iran's attack on Saturday, intercepting 99% of the 300 "threats of various types" thrown at it.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, according to Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Daniel Hagari, launched 170 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), more than 120 ballistic missiles and more than 30 cruise missiles in the attack.

Hagari said "99% of the threats launched towards Israeli territory were intercepted -- a very significant strategic achievement."

Hagari said the attack resulted in only one known Israeli casualty, a 7-year-old girl who was severely injured when she was struck by shrapnel apparently from an intercepted missile.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected on Monday to meet with his war cabinet to discuss potential responses to Iran’s attack.

The cabinet had convened on Sunday, but ended their meeting without making a final decision about a response to Iran’s attack, a person with knowledge of the meeting told ABC News.

The cabinet members include Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Benny Gantz, a former minister of defense.

-ABC News’ Joe Simonetti, Jordana Miller and Kevin Shalvey

Two U.S. officials confirm to ABC News that at least half of the ballistic missiles launched by Iran at Israel either failed to launch, failed in flight, or crashed before reaching their targets in Israel.

A senior U.S. official previously told ABC News that among the more than 300 drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles, there were between 115 and 135 ballistic missiles that targeted Israel.

That would mean that only half of the ballistic missiles launched by Iran needed to be shot down by Israel and other countries.

The Wall Street Journal was first to report this info.

-ABC News' Luis Martinez

US forces destroy 80 drones, at least 6 ballistic missiles

U.S. military forces destroyed 80 drones and at least six ballistic missiles out of the more than 300 launched from Iran, according to CENTCOM Sunday.

The drone number is an update from Saturday evening, when the U.S. said it had intercepted 70 drones.

CENTCOM said the total included a ballistic missile that was on its launcher vehicle and seven drones before they left the ground.

-ABC News' Anne Flaherty

Israeli military submitted a 'spectrum of response options' to the government

Israeli military officials have submitted "a wide range of options" to respond to Iran’s missile strike Saturday, Israeli Defense Federation (IDF) spokesperson Peter Lerner told reporters early Monday morning in Tel Aviv.

The IDF’s response could be "strike or no strike," according to Lerner, who noted, there are "a lot of different scenarios in between those two."

The Israeli government will "decide on the steps forward" as early as Monday or within the coming days, Lerner said.

When asked about Iran’s "substantial" missile strike being intercepted with minimal damage, Lerner said, "Just because we were successful in intercepting, we shouldn't underestimate what Iran did."

"We can't take that lightly," Lerner said.

At least nine Iranian missiles that breached Israel's air defenses struck two of Israel's air bases, but no significant damage was reported, a senior U.S. official told ABC News.

Five ballistic missiles hit the Nevatim Air Base, damaging a C-130 transport aircraft, an unused runway and empty storage facilities, the official said. Four additional ballistic missiles hit the Negev Air Base, but there were no reports of significant damage, the official said.

A spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces said earlier Sunday that 99% of the 300 "threats of various types" Iran launched at Israel, including 120 ballistic missiles and more than 30 cruise missiles, were intercepted by Israel's air defense system and Israeli Air Force fighter jets, as well as "aerial defense systems and aircraft of our partners."

-ABC News' Martha Raddatz

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