High-speed operator Eurostar says it still expects to run “a near normal timetable” on its London–Brussels route during Belgium’s 25-30 January rail strike, but has warned passengers to allow extra time for domestic connections and border formalities. The company’s live-updates page, refreshed at 18:52 on 23 January, lists the strike as a “planned disruption” and urges travellers to monitor real-time data in case of last-minute cancellations. (eurostar.com)
Eurostar trains depend on SNCB staff for dispatch and signalling inside Belgium, meaning any escalation could still force selective service cuts. The operator has already issued flexible exchange and refund policies for tickets dated 25-31 January, a window that covers potential knock-on effects after the strike ends.
Should those disruptions leave you needing extra help with visas or passport questions—especially if delays might push you close to the Schengen 90/180 allowance—VisaHQ can streamline the paperwork. Their Belgium portal (https://www.visahq.com/belgium/) lets travellers initiate or update Schengen visa applications online, check document requirements, and arrange fast courier delivery, reducing stress when rail timetables are in flux.
![Eurostar Pledges Near-Normal Timetable but Advises Extra Buffer During Belgian Strike]()
For business travellers, the greater risk lies in reaching Brussels-Midi through disrupted domestic networks or making onward Belgian rail links after arrival. Immigration consultants recommend incorporating longer layovers to ensure that missed trains do not translate into overstays under the 90/180-day Schengen rule.
Eurostar has also flagged possible crowding at Brussels-Midi security and UK Border Force checkpoints, which could slow boarding. Employers with time-sensitive assignments—such as posted-worker registration or A1 certificate appointments—should consider same-day rail alternatives via Paris or Amsterdam.
While airlines at Brussels Airport report normal operations, past strikes have prompted passengers to switch modes, boosting Eurostar load factors. The company says additional staff will be on hand at St Pancras and Brussels to manage queues and assist travellers unfamiliar with revised seating plans caused by rolling-stock substitutions.
Eurostar trains depend on SNCB staff for dispatch and signalling inside Belgium, meaning any escalation could still force selective service cuts. The operator has already issued flexible exchange and refund policies for tickets dated 25-31 January, a window that covers potential knock-on effects after the strike ends.
Should those disruptions leave you needing extra help with visas or passport questions—especially if delays might push you close to the Schengen 90/180 allowance—VisaHQ can streamline the paperwork. Their Belgium portal (https://www.visahq.com/belgium/) lets travellers initiate or update Schengen visa applications online, check document requirements, and arrange fast courier delivery, reducing stress when rail timetables are in flux.
For business travellers, the greater risk lies in reaching Brussels-Midi through disrupted domestic networks or making onward Belgian rail links after arrival. Immigration consultants recommend incorporating longer layovers to ensure that missed trains do not translate into overstays under the 90/180-day Schengen rule.
Eurostar has also flagged possible crowding at Brussels-Midi security and UK Border Force checkpoints, which could slow boarding. Employers with time-sensitive assignments—such as posted-worker registration or A1 certificate appointments—should consider same-day rail alternatives via Paris or Amsterdam.
While airlines at Brussels Airport report normal operations, past strikes have prompted passengers to switch modes, boosting Eurostar load factors. The company says additional staff will be on hand at St Pancras and Brussels to manage queues and assist travellers unfamiliar with revised seating plans caused by rolling-stock substitutions.
