Traffic file

be_boutwild · 2025-09-14T01:03:48+02:00

Discuss potential outcomes of traffic cases in Belgium, specifically for expats. Learn how it may affect your citizenship process and share similar experiences.

be_boutwild New member

Member since 13 September 2025

be_boutwildNew member13 September 2025 23:03:48

I've been living with my family in Belgium for more than 2,5 years with an A card/single permit. Last week, while driving, we were caught by the police while our baby was in his mother's arms (with his seat belt on) because he was crying so much. It was a spur-of-the-moment mistake, and unfortunately, it happened.

The police have stated that they will file a case against me.

I'm normally very careful when driving; I haven't received a traffic ticket in 2,5 years. This will be the first.

The question is, do you think this case will turn into a court summons? (I know it depends but I just want to know if you know any similar situation)

If it does, how will this affect my citizenship process in the future?

maharaji1984 Serial expat

Member since 30 September 2022

maharaji1984Serial expat14 September 2025 10:06:20

440

@be_boutwild

If it does, how will this affect my citizenship process in the future?

Once fine is in your ebox just pay it and be more careful+follow the rules for next rides.

Good luck

Mia0210 Active member

Member since 10 December 2022

Mia0210Active member14 September 2025 16:29:06

@be_boutwild

Most likely, you will just receive a fine since this is your first time. However, because the safety of a child is involved which is considered a serious violation in Belgium, so you may be summoned to court to give testimony. Either way, it will end with a fine. No serious consequences.

As for obtaining citizenship in the future, this will absolutely have no impact. The law provides a of violations that can lead to a refusal of citizenship, and a fine/conviction for not wearing a seatbelt is not among them.

However, if you do not pay the fine and it remains unpaid at the time of your citizenship application, then your application could be refused, not because of the violation itself, but because of the fact that you failed to comply with an obligation imposed by an authority (payment in that case). But, even this is debatable, as we all know many cases where migrants with debts and even receiving assistance from OCMW still obtained citizenship without issue.

In short: you have nothing to worry about. But next time, please be more careful and pull over to the side of the road to take care of your child before unbuckling him.