No, open carry of firearms in Belgium is strictly prohibited under the Arms Act of 2006, with enforcement overseen by the Federal Police and regional authorities. Exceptions exist only for authorized security personnel or under exceptional permits, which are rarely granted. Violations carry penalties up to €10,000 or imprisonment, per Article 32 of the Arms Act.
Key Regulations for Open Carry in Belgium
- Prohibition by Default: The Arms Act (Wet van 8 juni 2006) explicitly bans open carry, requiring firearms to be transported unloaded and in locked cases, per Article 2.3.
- Regional Enforcement: The Federal Police and regional governors (e.g., Brussels, Flanders) conduct compliance checks, with 2024-2026 inspections targeting illegal possession in urban areas.
- Permit Exceptions: Concealed carry permits (e.g., for hunters or security professionals) do not authorize open carry; permits must specify conditions, per Royal Decree of 2018.
Recent amendments (2023) tightened storage requirements, mandating biometric safes for licensed owners. Non-compliance triggers immediate confiscation and criminal proceedings.