The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) refreshed its travel guidance for Belgium late on 17 October 2026, adding specific references to nationwide transport strikes and demonstrations that have disrupted rail, metro and airport operations throughout the year. The advisory, current as of 18 October, lists recent general strikes (31 March, 29 April, 14 October and 9–12 October) and warns that action "may be announced at short notice." While no walkouts are scheduled at the moment, the FCDO urges business travellers to monitor Belgian media, airline notifications and union feeds, noting that employers are responsible for duty-of-care under UK corporate travel policies. The guidance also reminds visitors that EU/UK trade negotiations have not affected short-stay visa-free entry for British citizens, but longer assignments still require a single-permit or Vander Elst notification. Travel-risk advisers say the update reflects a growing pattern: Belgium recorded more than 45 strike days in 2026, fuelled by disputes over pension reform and public-sector pay. Disruption has been most acute at Brussels-Zaventem and regional airports, where air-traffic-control and ground-handling stoppages forced airlines to consolidate schedules. Firms with frequent flyers should review contingency plans, including remote-work options and flexible tickets. Under EU261, airlines must reroute or refund passengers, but accommodation costs can escalate quickly in Brussels during large demonstrations. The FCDO update does not alter Belgium’s overall risk rating, which remains “green” (normal precautions), yet it underscores the need for real-time alerts in mobility programmes.
