Border control at the airport
- Border control for flights outside EU
- Before departure, arrival or connecting flights
- eGates, the automatic passport control
Border control for flights outside EU
When travelling outside the EU or to a non-Schengen country, you automatically pass border control. Your passport is also checked when you arrive from a non-Schengen country. These checks are carried out by Belgium’s federal police. So keep your international EU passport and other travel documents ready for smooth passage.
Tip: Check the validity of your international passport and/or travel visa a couple of weeks before your flight. Keep in mind that some countries require that your passport is still valid for several months upon arrival.
Do you have a connecting flight at Brussels Airport? If you are entering or exiting the EU, you will have to pass through border control. In that case, you will go from Gates A to Gates B or T, or from Gates B to Gates A. You will find the detailed overview below.
eGates, automated passport control
Avoiding queues? Use the automatic gates for a smooth passage. You cross the border faster as you scan your passport yourself. Simply follow the instructions at the gates. Watch the video below to see how the eGates works.
In order to use the eGates, certain conditions must be met:
- You are at least 12 years old.
- You are travelling with an EU passport.
- You are travelling with a UK, USA or Canadian passport.
- You are flying from Gates B.
If you do not meet the above conditions, you will have to go through manual border control. Make sure you have your travel documents ready for a smooth passage.
No passport control within the Schengen zone
If you're flying to or from a Schengen country from Brussels Airport, there is no need to go through border control. Simply ensure that you have a valid identity card with you and remember to check for any additional required travel documents.
Current list of Schengen countries
Getting to Brussels Airport on time
Want to make sure you don’t miss your flight? It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours in advance for Schengen flights and 3 hours in advance for non-Schengen flights. Use our Travel Advisor to calculate the best time to arrive at the airport.
