Planning a summer getaway to Belgium? Great choice! You’ve got waffles, beer, and now… entry checks!
Starting this summer, the Belgian government will roll out stricter “entry controls” to curb illegal migration.
VRT reports that while these aren’t formal border checks, they will affect people moving across the country, including Dutch travellers.
More frequent ID checks
Flights from Schengen countries that are hotspots for illegal migrants (like Greece or Italy) will receive extra scrutiny, but airports aren’t the only places where Belgium is increasing controls.
Tourists from the Netherlands may be required to show their IDs:
- At major motorway parking lots,
- On international buses (especially routes like Dunkirk–De Panne), and
- On certain trains, like those heading to or from Brussels-South.
These checks are aimed at undocumented migrants or those who have already claimed asylum elsewhere in the EU; not your average tourist in shorts and sandals.
READ MORE | Border controls reintroduced between Netherlands, Germany and Belgium: Here’s what to expect
But if you’re Dutch, you might still get asked for your ID, especially when travelling by train, bus, or car.
Why now?
Germany and the Netherlands have already tightened up their borders, and Belgium doesn’t want to become the “plan B” for migrants turned away elsewhere.
In the words of Belgian Minister of Asylum and Migration, Anneleen Van Bossuyt, “summer is a period in which a lot of migration takes place. So we want to counteract that massive influx.”
Belgium’s making sure it’s not caught sunbathing while everyone else is screening.
@driplist their relationship reminds me of that of a big brother and little brother😅 so cute! #netherlandsvsbelgium #Dutchiescanrelate #netherlands #belgium #livinginthenetherlands ♬ euphoria – ziora
Dutch travellers, take note
So, if you’re Dutch and heading to Belgium:
- Remember to bring your ID or passport, even for a short trip,
- Expect possible checks, especially on public transport, and
- Plan for slight delays on popular routes.
While Belgium is still the Netherlands’ neighbour, for now, it might feel like visiting a completely new country.
Got Belgium on your weekend wishlist? Drop your travel plans in the comments and maybe pack that passport just in case!
