Americans can visit Belgium visa-free for 90 days within any 180-day period. Schengen Area member. Brussels (EU capital), Bruges, Antwerp tourism. ETIAS Q4 2026.
Americans can visit Belgium visa-free for 90 days within any 180-day period. Belgium is part of the Schengen Area, so days here count toward your total Schengen allowance. Starting Q4 2026, you'll need ETIAS travel authorization (€7, valid 3 years). Here's what you need to know about visiting Belgium in 2026.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Belgium?
No, US citizens do not need a visa to visit Belgium for tourism or business purposes if staying less than 90 days. This visa-free access is part of the Schengen Agreement, which allows Americans to move freely across 27 European countries without border checks.
How Long Can Americans Stay in Belgium?
Americans can stay in Belgium for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is the standard Schengen rule that applies to all 27 Schengen countries.
Important: The 90/180 rule uses a rolling 180-day window, not a calendar period. Use our free Schengen calculator to track your days accurately.
Belgium Entry Requirements for US Citizens
To enter Belgium visa-free, you need:
1. Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date from the Schengen Area.
Recommendation: Have at least 6 months of validity remaining to avoid any issues.
2. Blank Passport Pages
You need at least 1 blank passport page for entry and exit stamps.
3. ETIAS Authorization (Starting Q4 2026)
Starting in late 2026, Americans will need ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) to enter Belgium:
- Cost: €7 (approximately $7.50)
- Validity: 3 years or until passport expires
- Processing: Completed online in minutes
- Required for: All Schengen countries
4. Proof of Sufficient Funds
Belgian immigration may ask for proof you can support yourself during your stay. Be prepared to show:
- Bank statements
- Credit cards
- Cash
5. Return or Onward Ticket
You should have proof of onward travel (return ticket or ticket to another country).
Brussels as the EU Capital
Belgium hosts the capital of the European Union in Brussels. Key points:
- Brussels ≠ The EU: Belgium is one country within the EU, and Brussels is the administrative center
- EU institutions: European Commission, European Parliament, Council of the European Union
- NATO headquarters: Also located in Brussels
Visiting Brussels gives you access to EU institutional tours and museums explaining European integration.
Popular Destinations in Belgium
- Brussels: Grand Place, Atomium, EU institutions
- Bruges: Medieval architecture, canals, chocolate
- Antwerp: Diamond district, fashion, port city
- Ghent: University town, historic center
What You Cannot Do on a Tourist Visa
The visa-free entry is for tourism and business visits only. You cannot:
- Work for a Belgian employer
- Study long-term (courses over 90 days)
- Establish residency
Avoiding Overstays
Overstaying your 90-day limit can result in:
- Fines
- Deportation
- Bans from re-entering the Schengen Area (3 months to 5 years)
Track your days: Use our free Schengen calculator to ensure you stay within the 90/180 limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
See FAQ schema below for structured answers
Last verified: February 14, 2026 from travel.state.gov
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need a visa for Belgium?
How long can Americans stay in Belgium?
Is Belgium part of the Schengen Area?
Can I visit Brussels for business meetings?
What's the difference between Belgium and the EU?
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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