In Belgium, EU citizens or family members of EU citizens must at all times be able to show proof of identity and right of residence if they are:

• 15 years of age or over, and
• in a public place.

It is therefore important to keep your identity and residence documents with you at all times so that, when necessary, you can prove who you are and that you are allowed to stay in Belgium (for instance during a police check or when you board a plane).

The police can detain foreign nationals who do not hold the required identity documents or residence documents (maximum 24 hours), pending a decision by the Belgian Immigration Office. You could also be fined between EUR 26 and EUR 500.

Legislation

Articles 21 and 34, §3 of the Act of 5 August 1992 on the Police Function.

Articles 74/7 and 79 of the Act of 15 December 1980 on access to the territory, residence, settlement and removal of foreign nationals.

Article 38 of the Royal Decree of 8 October 1981 on access to the territory, residence, settlement and removal of foreign nationals.

Support Service

Immigration Office

02/793.80.00

infodesk [at] ibz.fgov.be

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