Electricity and sockets
An adapter is required: Belgium uses Types C and E, which does not accept plugs from the UK.
Sockets at the destination
Belgium runs on 230 V at 50 Hz, with sockets following Types C and E. At 230 V the supply matches what UK and European appliances expect, so no converter is needed.
You will find identical sockets in Czechia, France, Monaco and Poland. Nearby but different: Cyprus, the United Kingdom and the Isle of Man – an adapter for Belgium will not fit there. Across Europe this setup is fairly rare: 6 of 50 countries.
Protective earth
Belgium has sockets with a protective earth (Type E) and without (Type C). A plug that fits mechanically does not guarantee earthing.
Quick check by home country
| From the UK | adapter for Types C and E | Check route → |
|---|---|---|
| From the US | adapter for Types C and E | Check route → |
Nothing to worry about electrically: Belgium runs the same supply as home. Check your own device →
The same sockets are used further afield: Madagascar, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Niger, Togo and Djibouti.
Common questions
Yes. UK plugs do not fit the sockets in Belgium.
Types C and E – that is what you will find in Belgium (230 V, 50 Hz).
No. At 230 V the supply matches UK and European appliances.
If a socket gets hot, crackles or smells burnt, unplug the device straight away.
Data for Belgium from IEC World Plugs and IEC TR 60083. Sources and method →