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Belgium entry rules for Eurostar travellers

Passports, biometrics and the Antwerp quirk — everything the Brussels and Antwerp routes require, verified August 2026.

Belgium follows the standard Schengen rules: a passport issued within the last 10 years and valid at least 3 months after your planned departure from the Schengen area, with short stays visa-free for UK citizens within the 90-days-in-180 limit.

At the border

Belgian entry checks happen at St Pancras before boarding, including EES biometric registration — on arrival at Brussels-Midi or, from December 2026, Antwerpen-Centraal, you walk straight off the train.

The Antwerp quirk

The new direct London–Antwerp service is direct outbound only. Antwerpen-Centraal has no UK border facilities, so the journey home is sold as one combined SNCB + Eurostar ticket with a change at Brussels-Midi, where passport and security checks for the UK take place. Build that into your return timing.

10-year passport issue rule3 months validity after departureChecks at St Pancras outboundVia Brussels on Antwerp returns
Getting to St Pancras

Every Eurostar journey starts with reaching the station on time. Rushxo runs fixed-fare private hire across London and the UK, 24/7 — the quote is the fare, with no surge for early starts or late arrivals. Book a St Pancras transfer, WhatsApp us, or call 020 8888 9988.

Quick answers

Do UK citizens need a visa for Belgium?

Not for short stays — visa-free within the Schengen 90-days-in-180 limit, provided your passport meets the 10-year issue and 3-month validity rules.

Why does the Antwerp to London journey go via Brussels?

Antwerpen-Centraal has no UK border or customs facilities, so returns are sold as a combined SNCB + Eurostar ticket with UK checks at Brussels-Midi.

Where are Belgian passport checks done on Eurostar?

At St Pancras before boarding, including EES biometrics — you walk straight off the train on arrival in Belgium.

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