EU Entry/Exit System Goes Live – Belgium Deploys Biometric Kiosks at All Gateways
Belgium to Launch Smartphone-Based e-ID Card in 2026, Slashing On-Boarding Times for Expats
EU Ministers in Brussels Back Tougher Migration Pact, Fast-Track Deportations
Latest News
Rolling-Stock Shortage Forces Eurostar to Cancel Peak-Hour London–Brussels Trains
Eurostar cancelled its key early-morning London–Brussels round-trip on 8 December due to rolling-stock shortages, disrupting more than 1,500 mainly business travellers. Companies should brace for further short-notice cancellations until additional trainsets return to service and build contingency plans for urgent same-day trips between the UK and Belgium.
Atlantic Storms and ATC Strikes Ripple Into Belgium, Delaying 4,800 European Flights
Severe weather and ATC strikes elsewhere in Europe produced nearly 5,000 flight disruptions that cascaded into Belgian schedules. Business travellers connecting via Brussels should expect rolling delays and ensure expense documentation for EU 261 care obligations. Employers are urged to build extra buffer time into December itineraries.
Belgium Confirms Smartphone-Based eID Cards for 2026 Roll-Out
Belgium will launch a smartphone-based identity card in 2026, eliminating the need for expatriates and business travellers to collect a physical residence card at a commune. The digital credential will be accepted by police and, eventually, at Schengen airports and rail terminals, cutting onboarding times and simplifying day-to-day life for mobile employees.
EU Entry/Exit System Enters Phased Launch—Belgium Installs Biometric Kiosks at All Airports
The EU’s digital Entry/Exit System went live on 7 December. Belgium has already installed biometric kiosks at all major airports, promising faster queues and automatic overstay alerts, but employers must monitor frequent travellers’ Schengen days and address privacy concerns.
Eurostar Pulls Peak-Hour London–Brussels Trains Amid Rolling Stock Shortage
Eurostar cancelled its first two London–Brussels departures on 6 December at short notice, disrupting peak-season business travel. Firms should prepare contingency plans as rolling-stock shortages and Channel Tunnel works raise the risk of further cancellations over the holiday period.
Atlantic Storms and Strikes Threaten Belgian Holiday Travel Plans Across Europe
Severe weather and industrial action at major European hubs caused cascading delays that spilled into Belgium on 6 December. Businesses should brace for further schedule volatility, ensure flexible booking policies and remind travellers of their EU 261 rights.