Security Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Brussels, Belgium
December 7, 2012
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Change in Brussels Security Level
The Belgian Government has raised its overall threat level from 2 (moderate) to 3 (high) in anticipation of the release of a controversial film on December 14, 2012. Belgian law enforcement authorities have provided assurances that there are no/no direct threats to U.S. interests and that the threat level was increased as a prudent and preventative measure.
Nevertheless, U.S. citizens are advised to review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Belgium enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.travel.state.gov. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Belgium. For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.
Contact the U.S. embassy for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.
The U.S. Embassy in Brussels can be reached at +32-2-811-4000. The fax number for the Consular Section is +32-2-811-4546. We are located at Regentlaan 27 Boulevard du Régent, B-1000 Brussels. The Embassy’s website includes consular information and the most recent messages to the U.S. citizen community in Belgium. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy/Consulate is (+32) (0) 2-811-4000 and the Belgian emergency service (police, fire, etc.) number is 112.
