Within the EU, the Schengen states and the UK

From 15 June 2020, all travel within the EU's internal borders, the Schengen states or the United Kingdom is possible again. However, for travel to and from Belgium, a distinction applies between red (ban on non-essential travel because of an unfavourable Covid-19 situation or because the country does not allow Belgians to enter the territory), orange (non-essential travel is discouraged because of an unfavourable Covid-19 situation or because the country imposes restrictions on Belgian travellers) and green zones (travel is possible without additional restrictions) and, if necessary, measures must be taken upon return (see here). The zones are published on the Foreign Affairs website. Note that the zones only cover non-essential travel; essential travel may well be allowed.

As a result of the reopening of internal borders, certificates for frontier workers to cross borders for work are no longer needed.    

Outside the EU, Schengen and the UK

Belgium has decided to not yet follow the European Commission's recommendation to reopen its external borders for residents of 15 third countries and the prohibition on travel from outside the EU, the Schengen states and the UK continues to apply. These travel restrictions do not apply to the following individuals:

  • nationals of EU member states and Schengen states who wish to return home;
  • family members of nationals of EU member states and Schengen states, if they have the necessary entry documents and if they can prove their status as family member;
  • third-country nationals holding a residence permit or a D-visa for individuals with an essential function or need (see below);
  • individuals with an essential function or need, such as:
    • healthcare professionals, health researchers, and elderly care professionals;
    • frontier workers;
    • seasonal workers in agriculture;
    • transport personnel responsible for the carriage of goods and other transport personnel, if necessary.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.