Belgium Travel Risk

Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to crime, terrorism, and unrest.

Crime

• Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing.

Terrorism

• There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Belgium.
• Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Unrest

• Large-scale, generally peaceful demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services.
• Review our Travel Guidance for Belgium to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

National strike action

Strike action is an ongoing issue that can cause disruption.

Monitor local news and check with your provider regarding potential delays and closures. Always check with your travel operator for the latest updates. Read more information about demonstrations and strikes on the Safety and security page.

General strikes took place on 31 March, 29 April,14 October, 26 November, 15 December 2025, 12 March, 12 May, 9 and 12 October 2026. Strike action may be announced at short notice.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

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.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Belgium

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Belgium.

Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreign nationals such as:

• public transport
• national and international transport hubs
• music, sporting and cultural events
• entertainment establishments and nightlife venues
• government buildings and international institutions
• places of worship and religious sites

You should be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local authorities.

There have been some high-profile terrorist attacks across Belgium. The main threat is from extremists linked to Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL). Previous incidents have included fatal attacks against civilians and law enforcement:

• on 16 October 2023, 2 people were killed and one seriously injured in a terrorism-related shooting incident in Brussels
• in 2022, a police officer was killed and another injured in a suspected terrorist incident in Brussels

The Belgian authorities have successfully disrupted various attack plans, making a number of arrests in recent years. The Belgian government has set the national threat level at 3 ‘Serious’. You can expect to see an increased police presence, and additional safety measures may be in place. Be aware of your surroundings and follow the advice of local authorities.

Risk level

Belgium - Exercise a high degree of caution

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

Crime

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. Be cautious of distraction tactics employed by criminals, such as:

• spilling drinks
• engaging you in lengthy conversations
• posing odd questions
• persistent offers to assist you

Pickpockets also target passengers in transportation hubs such as:

• the metro
• train stations
• airports

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:

• don't carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• 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

Violent crime

Incidents of violent crime are on the rise.

You should exercise increased caution due to a recent surge in violent crimes, including shootings and stabbings, in the Brussels-Capital Region and other major cities. You should remain vigilant despite local authorities' response to these incidents and report any suspicious activities to the police.

If you find yourself in a dangerous situation:

• seek shelter immediately
• contact local authorities

Criminal gangs use ports on Belgium's North Sea coast as a point of entry for drug trafficking and other contraband. This is particularly prevalent in Ostend and Antwerp. Clashes between rival gangs have led to violent incidents in Antwerp and its suburbs, including bombings and shootings.

Criminals do not tend to target bystanders, but there is always the risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Expect a heightened police presence in certain areas

Armed robbers and organized gangs have targeted jewellers, banks and individuals carrying cash and valuables. Use caution when using ATMs, especially after dark

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