No, concealed carry without a permit is illegal in Belgium. The Weapons Act (Wet van 8 juni 2006) mandates permits for concealed carry, with strict issuance criteria. Regional police forces (e.g., Federale Politie and Lokale Politie) enforce compliance, and non-compliance risks criminal charges under Article 38 of the Penal Code.
Key Regulations for Concealed Carry Without a Permit in Belgium
- Permit Requirement: Article 3 of the Weapons Act prohibits concealed carry without a carry permit (wapenvergunning), issued only under exceptional circumstances (e.g., documented threats to life).
- Regional Enforcement: Local police units (e.g., Politiezone Antwerpen) verify permits during routine checks or investigations, with penalties including fines up to €4,000 or imprisonment.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The Wet van 1 januari 2026 tightens scrutiny on private security personnel, requiring additional certification for concealed carry in high-risk sectors (e.g., event security).
Exceptions exist for immediate self-defense under Article 422bis of the Penal Code, but these are narrowly interpreted by courts. Non-residents must comply with EU reciprocity agreements, which Belgium enforces via the Federale Overheidsdienst Binnenlandse Zaken. Violations trigger mandatory weapon confiscation and potential revocation of future permit eligibility.