Residence permits no longer issued to EU citizens
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DIR EC/38/2004 abolishes the obligation some EU States impose on EU citizens to obtain so-called 'residence permits' (residence cards actually). This DIR came into force in Belgium 1/6/2006. You still need to register if staying longer than 90 days, but you now receive a 'certificate' of registration instead. You may also apply for a Belgian ID card, with an electronic chip, but is not mandatory. The cost of this varies, but isn't more then nationals of Beglium pay. However, the obligation to carry official ID on you at all times, ie, passport or national ID card still remains in force. The Belgian ID card issued, upon request, to EU citizens residing here permanently is identical to the Belgian national ID card with the exception of the wording 'type: attestation d'enregristrement'. Registration at your local commune is still obligatory in the same way it is for everybody who moves to or within Belgium.OD23 Nov 2008, 04:36
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