Belgium is a country in Western Europe with a population of 11 million people and an area of 30,528 km2.
The capital city is Brussels, which is also the largest city in Belgium.
The country shares borders with France, Luxembourg, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Belgium was established as an independent state in 1830 after splitting from the Netherlands. It has been a member state of the European Union since 1958.
Belgium in the European Union
Belgium was one of the five founding members of the European Union, along with Germany, France, Italy, and Luxembourg. The Netherlands joined at a later date. A strong supporter of the European Union since its inception, Belgium provides the EU with a population of more than 11 million people. And because it has a population that is smaller than many other member states, Belgium uses its 21 seats in the European Parliament as leverage for pushing through things that are important to Belgian nationals. Brussels is the unofficial capital of the EU, housing Brussels-based organisations such as the European Commission, Council of Europe, and European Council. In addition to these international bodies, it also hosts a European Parliament office.
Belgium is one of the oldest signatories to the Schengen Treaty. This treaty allowed for a borderless Europe, which has been successful for all parties involved.
Authorities in Belgium are working on a new visa waiver for the EU called ETIAS, which will be launched by 2025and should help keep Belgium as well as the entire EU safe. It will replace the Schengen Visa, which was set up back in 1997.
ETIAS for Belgium
ETIAS will become a requirement for tourists from eligible countries to travel to and stay in Belgium starting in 2025. ETIAS is fast and can be applied quickly online at any time.
Belgium welcomes around 18 million tourists every year, many of whom can visit visa-free thanks to the EU’s visa liberalisation policy. However, with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System about to be enforced, those without a travel document will need a visa prior to entering the country.
The new visa waiver will increase safety and security within the Schengen Area by pre-screening non-EU citizens before their arrival. When travelling to Belgium, travellers will provide personal information and passport details. These will be checked against Schengen security databases to ensure that they don't pose a threat to the public.
ETIAS is linked to the passport of each person it approves. This authorisation is valid for 3 years, or as long as your passport stays valid, and allows you to enter the EU with no time limit (as long as your 180-day window has not been exceeded).
Best Places to Visit in Belgium
Bruges is a city in Belgium, located near the North Sea coast. It is one of the most beautiful places in Europe and has been attracting tourists for centuries.
Bruges is famous for its medieval architecture and as a beer lover's paradise. The city is also famous for its lace and chocolate industries. Bruges attracts many tourists because it has many attractions, such as museums, churches, canals, squares, restaurants, and cafes.
The Old Town of Bruges was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2000 because it's an outstanding example of a well-preserved medieval town with buildings from the 13th to the 18th century that are still occupied by their original inhabitants.
Brussels is a city of contrasts. It's a city that has been shaped by the people who have lived in it and those who have passed through it.
It's the capital of Belgium and the headquarters of NATO. It's also home to the European Union. Brussels is a place where you can see how Europe has changed over time, as well as how it might change in the future.
It is also world-renowned for its post-modernist architecture, historical monuments and major political institutions.
Antwerp is a city with a rich history and culture dating back to the 16th century. It's also home to some of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Belgium.
The city has been nicknamed "The Golden Quarter" because it used to have a lot of goldsmiths and diamond cutters during its heyday in the 15th century.
The most popular tourist attraction in Antwerp is its historic center, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many buildings from different eras that have been preserved here, such as churches, houses, monuments, and even warehouses. Visitors will find plenty of restaurants and cafes to grab some food while exploring this part of town too.
The Ardennes are a beautiful range of forests, caves, and cliffs. They're perfect for a younger tourist looking to exercise while they explore the area. There are even lynx, deer, and wild boar.
The region also has a number of beautiful villages you can visit, including Bouillon and the Labyrinth of Barvaux.
Belgium is known for its beers, as well as mussels, chocolate, and waffles.
They also have a wide array of other delicious food sources. While Belgian cuisine does borrow from French and German gastronomy, it's so much more than that.
Things You Must Know Before Going to Belgium
Europe is a very safe place to travel. In fact, the chances of being a victim of crime are less than one in 1 million. However, these safety measures should be taken into consideration when planning your trip. The key is to use common sense and stay alert at all times. The key is to use common sense and stay alert at all times. There are many things you can do to have a safer trip. One thing that helps is taking a vacation in Europe during the "low season." The low season starts around December and lasts until April. It's more likely that your safety will be monitored by European police officers, who may help you in case of an emergency. The rates for hotels and flights are much cheaper too, so it's easier on your budget as well. Belgium is becoming more popular across Europe. Tourist figures show an 8.9% growth in 2018 as compared to 2017.
Belgium is located in Western Europe and has many charming things to offer. The architecture and small towns are picturesque, while the nature is very scenic.
Belgium is a small but well-connected country; its geographical position makes it the center of an important trade route.
Brussels Airport is the leading international airport in Belgium and can be reached by public transport.
Flying to Belgium is now a simple way to get to major cities around the world. Paris and Brussels are only 45 minutes away by plane.
When travelling between Brussels, Strasbourg, and Basel, Eurostar may be the best way to go as passengers will only spend 2 hours on the train in order to get from Brussels to London.
Non-EU citizens should make sure that their passport and ETIAS or visa are with them when driving across the Schengen area, as there is no border control.
