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EES - Entry/Exit System - Entry into force on 12/10/2025
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system for registering non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay, every time they cross the external borders of European countries using the system, including Belgium. This registration is carried out automatically for travellers who require a short-stay visa (maximum 90 days) and for those who do not need a visa. No prior action is necessary on their part. The EES records entry and exit dates, and biometric data (fingerprints and facial image). The system also records refusals of entry.
For further information, please consult the European Union website.
Competent authority for access to Belgian territory
All the information concerning access to Belgian territory can be found on the website of the Immigration Office of FPS Home Affairs, which is the competent authority for access to the territory, residence, settlement and the removal of foreigners in Belgium.
Notice to all travellers
Belgian diplomatic and consular missions are not responsible for granting access to Belgium's territory, which is a prerogative of the Belgian Border Control. Border Control always keeps the ultimate right to let any traveler enter Belgium or not.
All passengers must be able to show to both the airline and border control that they meet the entry requirements of the Schengen Area.
ETIAS
The ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will be the European equivalent of the Canadian AVE or the American ESTA.
It will concern travelers who are not subject to the Schengen visa requirement (including Canadian nationals), and who will now need to obtain a travel authorization to enter most European countries.
ETIAS has been postponed and is not yet in force. It is expected to be implemented in 2026.
To find out more about these new requirements, visit the official ETIAS website.
Lifting of COVID-19 Travel Restrictions
Effective Monday, May 23, 2022, all COVID-19-related travel restrictions to Belgium from Canada are lifted.
Be aware that travel restrictions can be reinstated at any moment. Therefore, before travelling, make sure you check the requirements of the Canadian authorities as well as those of your airline and, if applicable, of the transit countries before your arrival in Belgium.
