Disruptions Near U.S. Embassy Downtown Compound: March 12, 2026
U.S. citizens should be aware that a large labor union demonstration is expected to take place on Thursday, March 12 from Thursday, March 12 from 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, disrupting access to the downtown U.S. Embassy compound. Some past demonstrations have been accompanied by instances of violence and U.S. citizens should exercise caution.
Due to this disruption of access, American Citizens Services will not offer routine services, including U.S. passport pick-up hours, on the afternoon of Thursday, March 12.
Disruptions to Public Transportation and Airports
U.S. citizen travelers in Belgium should be aware that a union strike from Sunday, March 8 through Thursday, March 12 is expected to disrupt public transportation and air travel.
Airport: Brussels Zaventem Airport will have major service disruptions on Thursday, March 12, including the cancellation of all departing flights and potentially some arriving flights. Charleroi Airport (Brussels South) will be closed for all scheduled departures and arrivals as well. Travelers should contact their airlines for updates on travel disruptions.
Trains: Fewer trains will be in operation through Wednesday, March 11.
Metro, Bus & Tram: Reduced metro, bus and tram services are expected on Thursday, March 12.
Worldwide Caution
U.S. citizens are reminded that following the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran, the State Department has issued a Worldwide Caution and advises Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution. https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events/worldwide-caution.html . We encourage all U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Belgium to sign up at https://step.state.gov to receive safety and security alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate for your destination. For destination specific information related to your travel to Belgium, please visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Belgium.html .
Resources
U.S. citizens are encouraged to check with the airline or transportation provider regularly for updates on cancellations or schedule changes. For additional resources:
For Brussels Airport and Charleroi Airport information:
All information for passengers | Brussels Airport
Welcome | Brussels South Charleroi Airport
For domestic train (SNCB-NMBS) traffic information:
Strikes and union actions | SNCB-NMBS
For STIB Public transport information:
STIB-MIVB – Brussels Intercommunal Transport Company
For information on DeLijn tram and bus services:
De Lijn
For international train information:
https://www.b-europe.com/EN
Assistance:
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