Border control
For flights outside the EU
Are you travelling to a destination outside the EU or a non-Schengen country, such as the USA, Morocco or Egypt? You'll always go through border control. This also applies if you are arriving from a non-Schengen country. Have your passport and travel documents ready.
Tip: Check in advance if your passport and visas are still valid. For some countries, your passport must be valid for at least six months; for Belgium, it’s three months after departure.
Connecting flight?
Have a transfer at Brussels Airport? You’ll need to go through border control when entering or leaving the EU. This is necessary, for instance, when traveling between Gates A and Gates B/T, or vice versa.
No border control for Schengen countries
Travelling from Brussels Airport to another Schengen country? Then you don't need to go through border control. Don't forget to bring a valid passport and check if you need any additional documents. See the list of Schengen countries.
Use the eGates to pass through border control more quickly. These automated gates make the process simpler and faster.
Requirements for using eGates:
- You are at least 12 years old.
- You are travelling with an EU passport with a microchip.
- You are travelling with a Belgian identity card.
- You are a departing passenger with a passport from the US, the UK, or Canada.
What is EES?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated system for registering non-EU citizens when they enter or leave the country. It does not apply to Belgian or EU citizens.
How does it work?
When you arrive in Europe, the following are registered:
- The information on your travel document(s)
- Personal details, such as your place of residence
- A facial image and your fingerprints
Special kiosks at the airport facilitate this process. Once registered, you can pass through an eGate or a staffed border post.
Upon departure: Only travellers who entered the EU before the introduction of the EES need to re-register. This can be done at special kiosks after the security check.