Five-Hour Queues at Brussels Airport Expose Growing Pains of EU Entry/Exit System
Court Deadline Looms as Belgian Government Faces €10,000-a-Day Fines Over Brussels Airport Noise
Belgian Travel Network Selectair Kicks Off Inter-Generational Congress in Morocco
Latest News
Up to Five-Hour Queues at Brussels Airport as EU Entry/Exit System Strains Border Control
Brussels Airport confirmed passport-control waits of up to five hours for arriving third-country nationals, blaming software glitches and staffing gaps linked to the EU’s new Entry/Exit System. Airlines and corporates warn of mounting disruption and urge Brussels and the Belgian government to accelerate contingency measures.
Belgian Federal Bill on Student Visas Sparks Fears of Deterring Talent
A draft federal law would impose tougher financial and administrative requirements on non-EU students seeking Belgian residence permits. Universities say the plan lacks evidence, could breach regional competences and risks undermining Belgium’s attractiveness for international talent. Businesses that hire graduates may face extra cost and compliance steps if the rules take effect.
New EU Entry/Exit System Triggers Five-Hour Queues for Non-EU Travellers at Brussels Airport
Non-EU passengers faced waits of up to five hours at Brussels Airport after self-service passport kiosks were taken offline to prepare for the EU’s new biometric Entry/Exit System. Staffing shortfalls and the loss of automated gates caused severe congestion, delaying business travellers and prompting companies to revise itineraries. Belgian authorities are rushing extra border officers and negotiating temporary fixes ahead of the autumn peak.
Belgium Introduces Tamper-Proof Registration Certificates for Residency Applicants
Belgium has replaced its paper registration certificate for residence applicants with a secure, chip-enabled card linked to a central database. The move is designed to combat document fraud, give authorities real-time visibility and reduce administrative workload, while employers will need to update right-to-work checks.
Belgium Convenes National Security Council to Tackle ‘Hybrid’ Threats Against Transport and Border Hubs
Belgium will hold an urgent National Security Council meeting on 2 October to adopt a strategy against hybrid threats such as drone or cyber attacks on airports and ports. The outcome could introduce new security checks that affect passenger flows and supply chains, so businesses are preparing contingency plans.
28 September Protest to Disrupt Key Tram and Bus Lines in Central Brussels
STIB warns that a protest marching through central Brussels on 30 September will divert trams 92/93 and buses 29, 38, 63, 65, 66, 71 and 89 from 12:00–15:00. Business travellers and commuters to EU and corporate offices should switch to unaffected metro lines or allow extra journey time.