Americans can visit Belgium visa-free for up to 90 days. Here's what you need to know about entry requirements for Brussels, the Schengen rule, and ETIAS changes.
Belgium's medieval cities, world-famous chocolate, and position as the heart of the European Union make it a popular destination. Here's what Americans need to know about entry requirements for Brussels, Bruges, and beyond.
The Short Answer: No Visa Needed
US citizens do not need a visa to visit Belgium for stays under 90 days. According to the US State Department, Americans can enter Belgium for tourism or business without obtaining a visa in advance.
Belgium is a founding member of the Schengen Area, so the same visa-free rules that apply throughout the zone apply here.
The 90/180-Day Rule
Belgium follows the Schengen 90/180-day rule: you can stay up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period across the entire Schengen Area.
Days spent in Belgium count toward your total alongside visits to other Schengen countries. Once you've reached 90 days, you must leave the entire Schengen Area for at least 90 days before returning.
Entry Requirements
- Valid US passport: Must be a regular passport. Belgium does not accept the 12-page US emergency passport for visa-free entry.
- Proof of sufficient funds: Evidence you can support yourself during your stay.
- Return or onward ticket: Proof of your plans to leave.
- Accommodation details: Hotel reservations or host information.
Important: If you're traveling with an emergency passport issued by a US embassy or consulate overseas, you will need to obtain a visa before entering Belgium. Only regular US passports qualify for visa-free entry.
What's Changing: EES and ETIAS
Entry/Exit System (EES): Active since late 2025, this system collects biometrics when entering the Schengen Area at Belgian borders.
ETIAS: Starting in late 2026, Americans will need ETIAS authorization before traveling to Belgium. Key details:
- €20 fee (waived for travelers under 18 or over 70)
- Most applications approved within minutes
- Some cases may take up to 96 hours or even 30 days
- Valid for 3 years or until your passport expires
Staying Longer Than 90 Days
According to the Belgian Embassy, all persons including US citizens who want to stay in Belgium for more than 90 days must obtain a national D-visa before arrival.
This applies to work, study, family reunification, or any extended stay. You cannot enter visa-free and then apply to extend your stay beyond 90 days.
Belgium as a Gateway to Europe
Brussels is home to EU institutions and has excellent rail connections to Paris, Amsterdam, London, and Cologne. Many travelers use Belgium as a base for exploring multiple countries.
Remember: any side trips to other Schengen countries count toward your 90-day total. A day trip to Amsterdam or a weekend in Paris draws from the same allowance.
Track Your Days
If you're using Belgium as a hub for European travel, keep track of your Schengen days carefully. Use our free Schengen calculator or download the Days Monitor app on iOS for automatic tracking.
Disclaimer: Entry requirements can change. Always verify current information with the US State Department or the Belgian Embassy before traveling.
Track Your Schengen Days
Don't let visa calculations stress you out. Our free Schengen calculator tracks your 90/180 days automatically.
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