Know before you go

Visa Requirements for Belgium

It is the sole responsibility of the attendee to take care of his/her visa requirements. Attendees who require an entry visa must allow sufficient time for the application procedure. Attendees should contact the nearest embassy or consulate to determine the appropriate timing of their visa applications. The organizers will not directly contact embassies and consulates on behalf of visa applicants.

Climate                  

Belgium has a temperate maritime climate with cool summers and moderate winters. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year with a dryer period from April to September. Especially in fall and winter strong Atlantic low-pressure systems can bring gales and uncomfortable weather. Sometimes easterly winds can cause a more continental type of weather, warm and dry in the summer, but cold and clear in the winter with temperatures sometimes far below zero.

Temperatures in July can range between 14 and 23 °C. Lightweight clothing is recommended, but it is advisable to carry an umbrella as well as a light jacket or sweater.

The weather forecast for Belgium can be consulted here.

Currency

The currency of Belgium is the Euro (EUR).

Language

There are three official language in Belgium: Dutch, French and German.

Most people understand and speak English.

Banking Facilities

Banks are open Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 16:00.

The most common automatic cash machines are linked to international networks and are widely available.

Paying and Tipping

Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, shops and restaurants. However, it is also recommended that visitors carry small amounts of cash at all times.

Prices in hotels and restaurants as well as the price of taxi fares are calculated to include taxes and service. Tipping is appreciated but not expected. Usually tipping is done by rounding up the billed amount.

Shopping

Normal trading shopping hours are Monday to Saturday from 9.00 to 18:00 hours.

There is a variable value added tax (VAT) of 6 % to 21% applied to most items and services but the VAT will always be included in the prices shown.

Electricity

Belgium uses the Europlug (Type C & F) for electricity, with two round prongs. The electric current used is 220 volts/50hz. Delegates from North America require a transformer and British participants need an adaptor.

Telephone

The dial in code for Belgium is +32.