Is Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) Legal in Belgium After the 2026 Regulatory Updates?

No. Butterfly knives (balisongs) are prohibited in Belgium under the Weapons Act of 2006, as amended by the 2026 Royal Decree on Prohibited Weapons. Possession, sale, or import without a special permit is criminalized, with enforcement overseen by the Federal Police and the Ministry of Justice.

Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in Belgium

  • Prohibition Status: Classified as Category 6 weapons under the 2006 Weapons Act, balisongs are explicitly banned for civilian possession unless authorized by the Minister of Justice for specific professional or historical purposes.
  • Penalties: Unauthorized possession carries up to 5 years imprisonment and fines up to €5,000, per Article 38 of the Weapons Act. Confiscation is mandatory.
  • Enforcement & Exemptions: The Federal Police conduct periodic inspections, particularly at borders. Exemptions require a carte de légitime défense or a collector’s permit, issued only after rigorous background checks by the Service Public Fédéral Justice.