Belgium simplifies ARRIVAL REGISTRATION for short-stay visitors
A new online procedure for EU citizens and eligible non-EU nationals staying in Belgium for up to 90 days
Belgium has launched My Address in Belgium (MAB), a new online platform that allows certain foreign nationals to notify the Belgian authorities of their presence and temporary address without visiting the local municipality in person. The initiative is part of the digitalisation of Belgium’s immigration procedures and supports the implementation of the European Entry/Exit System (EES).
Who is affected?
MAB applies to visitors who come to Belgium for a short stay and are required to report their presence to the authorities.
EU citizens and their family members must report their presence within 10 working days of arrival. Third-country nationals whose entry is registered in the European Entry/Exit System must do so within three working days.
An important exception applies to third-country nationals who hold a residence permit or a long-stay (type D) visa issued by another EU Member State. As they are not registered in the Entry/Exit System, they cannot use MAB. They must report their arrival and temporary address in person to the municipality.
Previously, this reporting obligation often required a visit to the local administration. Through MAB, eligible visitors can now complete the notification online, making the process quicker and more accessible.
What does MAB mean for international visitors and employers?
The new system is particularly relevant for business travellers, researchers, trainees, visiting employees and other international professionals staying in Belgium for a short period. By allowing eligible visitors to register their address digitally, MAB reduces administrative formalities and unnecessary visits to municipal offices. However, MAB does not replace residence documents or alter existing immigration rules. The platform merely allows visitors to communicate their temporary address to the Belgian authorities more efficiently.
Key points at a glance
- Applies throughout Belgium, including Flanders, Brussels and Wallonia.
- Available to EU citizens and eligible third-country nationals staying in Belgium for a short stay(90 days).
- Replaces the need for a physical visit to the municipality solely for address notification in many cases.
- Visitors staying in a hotel, hospital or prison are exempt from the reporting obligation.
- Third-country nationals holding a residence permit or long-stay (D) visa from another EU Member State CANNOT USE MAB and MUST still REGISTER in person through the municipality.
- The MAB confirmation does not constitute proof of legal residence, identity or nationality.
- Visitors remain responsible for complying with all applicable Belgian and Schengen immigration rules, including the maximum authorised duration of their stay.
MAB represents an important step towards a more modern and user-friendly immigration process. It makes it easier for eligible visitors to comply with their legal reporting obligations while staying in Belgium.
SOURCE: Mijn Adres in België (MAB) | IBZ
