On 1st January 2002, the euro banknotes and coins were put into circulation. There are eight euro coins denominated in 1 and 2 euros, then 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents. Every euro coin carries a common European face. On the obverse, each Member State decorates the coins with its own motifs. No matter which motif is on the coins, they can be used anywhere inside the 12 Member States. There are seven euro notes. In different colours and sizes they are denominated in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euros. The notes are uniform throughout the euro area; unlike coins, they do not have a national side.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards are widely accepted at hotels and restaurants throughout Belgium, although a considerable number of shops will only accept cash or Eurocheques. It is advisable to check before entering into a transaction.
ATMs
Withdrawals can be obtained from cash-point facilities using an ATM cash card, Visa or MasterCard, but check with the bank or card company that the PIN (Personal Identification Number) will work in Belgian ATMs. Transactions are calculated against the EUR.
Banks
Bank opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Some banks close for two hours each day from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm; others open on Saturday mornings from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon.
Tipping
A service charge of 16% and a tax of 21% are included in restaurant bills, although it is customary to 'round up' the total, or leave 10% for very good service. Taxi fares include a service charge, but a 10% tip is expected; and when buying a programme at the theatre or cinema, it is also customary to pay a little extra in addition to the purchase price. Tip if in doubt.
Importing Money
There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into the country.
