Moving

 Moving to Belgium

Once you decide that it is time to move to Belgium, you should carefully plan how to move your belongings. Importing goods from other countries to Belgium is relatively easy even for non-EU countries (including Switzerland). Be aware of the list of prohibited items so you won’t risk a fine. 

There is good news concerning the transportation of pets. Even in this case rules are not too strict neither for EU countries nor non-EU countries (including Switzerland). Of course, there are rules to comply with, such as registering your pet with a microchip or vaccinating your pet with the required vaccine.

Customs regulations and permits for Belgium

For third-country nationals / moving from outside the EU

Belgian custom does not apply any particular taxation on tobacco products, for passengers aged 17 and older.  The same regulation applies to alcoholic beverages.

Products of animal origin, not originating from an EU Member State, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, San Marino, or Switzerland, are forbidden. 

Prohibited and restricted items in Belgium:

• Weapons such as firearms and ammunition require a permit. 
• Endangered animals, plants, and their derivative products protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) may require protected species permits. 
•  Animals are subject to a mandatory health inspection at the first point of entry on EU territory. They must also have a microchip or tattoo and rabies vaccine. A Common Veterinary Entry Document certifying the healthy inspection must be provided with the customs declaration. 
• Pets traveling within the EU must have a valid pet passport. 
• Meat and dairy products are allowed from EU countries.

You cannot enter the following items in Belgium:

• Counterfeit and pirated goods. 
• Weapons such as switchblades and air guns 
• Certain vegetables and plant products.