Safety and Security

While Belgium has historically been largely free of major terrorist incidents, two terror-related events have occurred in the past year.  In May 2014, a gunman opened fire at the Jewish Museum of Belgium in Brussels, killing four people.  In January 2015, Belgian counter-terrorist units foiled what was described as an imminent terror attack, when they killed two gunmen and wounded another in a shootout in the town of Verviers, near the German border.  Belgian authorities have arrested dozens of suspects in counter-terrorism actions over the past two years.  As with other countries in the Schengen area, Belgium maintains open borders with its neighbors, allowing the possibility of terrorist operatives entering/exiting the country with anonymity. Belgian law enforcement and security officials, in close cooperation with neighboring countries, maintain an effective anti-terrorism effort and a welcoming environment for tourism and business..

Security messages issued regarding demonstration and strikes will now be posted on the Embassy’s website. Prior police approval is required for all public demonstrations in Belgium, and police are present to ensure adequate security for participants and passers-by. Nonetheless, spontaneous demonstrations do take place in Belgium from time to time in response to world events or local developments. Even demonstrations that are meant to be peaceful can become violent and unpredictable. You should avoid them if at all possible. Be alert and aware of your surroundings, and pay attention to what the local news media have to say. In general, larger public demonstrations are announced on the Demonstrations page within the U.S. Embassy Brussels website.

To stay connected:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.
• Follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and Facebook.
• Bookmark the Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution.
• Follow the U.S. Embassy in Belgium on Twitter and visiting the Embassy’s website.
• In the event of an emergency, contact us at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the U.S. and Canada, or via a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries.
• Take some time before traveling to consider your personal security and checking for useful tips for traveling safely abroad.

CRIME: Although Belgium remains relatively free of violent crime, low-level street crime such as robberies, purse snatchings, and pickpocketing is common, particularly in major cities. Thieves often operate in teams, and usually distract a target by creating a random commotion in a public space or by bumping into or shoving the target, especially in crowds. Usually, an accomplice to get the target’s attention by speaking to that person or asking to sign a petition while the partner carries out the theft. Be alert to distractions.

Criminals commonly operate in transportation hubs like the metro (subway) and train stations, notably the Gare du Midi, the primary international train hub in Brussels. Restaurants, bars, and hotels are also common targets. Don’t sit next to doors where thieves can reach in and grab a bag that is placed on a chair or on the floor next to it. On trains, don’t place valuables on overhead racks. Exercise good security and safety practices when selecting and checking into hotels. Ensure that rooms have door and window locks. When possible, select a room above the ground and first floors.

Theft from vehicles is a common problem. Do not leave anything visible that might attract attention, even while driving. Always drive with your windows up and the doors locked, as thieves sometimes target cars stopped at traffic lights. Items left on the front passenger seat of a car are particularly vulnerable. Theives may break in and steal the item from the passanger seat before you have time to react. If doors are locked, thieves may smash the window and grab valuables. Use parking garages when possible, as they are generally more secure than street parking. When a parking garage is not available, look for a spot near a street light.

There have been instances of small groups of young men that prey on unwary tourists, usually at night in the Brussels metro (subway). These thieves typically seek small, high-value items such as smart phones and MP3 players. You should carry only a minimum amount of cash, credit cards, and necessary personal identification (see Special Circumstances, below, for acceptable forms of identification). Avoid against wearing expensive jewelry and watches.

Scammers have victimized U.S. citizens around the world, including in Belgium. See our website on International Financial Scams to protect yourself while traveling. A common internet scam is for a distressed U.S. citizen travel to be stranded in Belgium in need of funds to pay for customs fees. These are confidence schemes. U.S. citizens have lost tens of thousands of dollars in such scams. Funds transferred in response to such offers are rarely recovered. U.S. citizens in the United States who have been victimized by Internet crime should report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center. U.S. citizens present in Belgium who have been victimized should contact the Regional Security Office at the U.S. Embassy in Brussels (Telephone 011-32-2-811-4057). Depending on the circumstances, the Regional Security Office can then direct you to the appropriate Belgian, U.S., or international law enforcement agency.

VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. We can:

• Replace a stolen passport.
• Help you find appropriate medical care if you are the victim of violent crimes such as assault or rape.
• Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities, and if you want us to, contact family members or friends.
• Help you understand the local criminal justice process and direct you to local attorneys, although it is important to remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in Belgium is 101 for emergencies requiring police assistance. For all other emergencies, please dial 112.

The Belgian “Commission for financial assistance to victims of intentional acts of violence” provides financial compensation, under specific circumstances, for victims of crime and for those who have suffered injuries and consequent losses caused by such incidents. The Commission also provides for dependents or immediate family members of homicide victims. For more information, contact the Commission by phone at 32 2 542-7208; 32 2 542-7218; 32 2 542-7224; 32 2 542-7229, or 32 2 542-7244; by e-mail at commission.victimes@just.fgov.be or commissie.slachtoffers@just.fgov.be; or visit the Ministry of Justice website (French, Dutch, and German only).

Please see our information for victims of crime, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.