Entry/Exit System (EES) & arrival declaration in Belgium: important updates
5/29/2026
As of 10 April 2026, the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) is fully operational across Schengen countries, including Belgium. At the same time, Belgium has introduced a simplified online arrival declaration process for short-stay travellers.
What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system that registers non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay each time they cross the external borders of participating European countries.
Instead of stamping passports, the system records:
- Entry and exit dates
- Biometric data (fingerprints and facial image)
- Information from travel documents
- Refusals of entry
This applies to travellers staying up to 90 days within any 180-day period, whether they require a visa or not. No prior action is required from travellers.
For more information, check the EU website.
Arrival declaration in Belgium: new online process
Any person entering Belgium for a short stay (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) must declare their presence within three days of arrival, unless they are staying in a hotel, hospital, or prison.
Since 10 April 2026, travellers can complete their arrival declaration online via the electronic form: My Address in Belgium (MAB)
This means you no longer need to register your arrival at the local municipal administration.