Holders of the ‘National Recognition’ status and their beneficiaries are entitled to free transport in 1st and 2nd class on presentation of their Card on patriotic grounds. The Card is valid on the Belgian railway network (except frontier points) of SNCB/NMBS as well as on the public transport services of De Lijn, TEC and STIB/MIVB. To be able to use the STIB/MIVB network, you must have a grey brown Mobib Card issued by the STIB/MIVB.

How to apply?

You first need to obtain a certificate from one of the following government bodies:

• National Defence
• Public Sector Pensions department
• Federal department of Social Security

Hand in this certificate together with an identity photo at your station. Your Card will be issued against payment of a fixed fee of 5,00 EUR*.

What does the Card on patriotic grounds look like?

The Card consists of a main card and a validation ticket – similar to a railcard.

• The main card shows the Card type, your identity photo, your first and last name, address, date of birth, the logo of transport companies SNCB, De Lijn, TEC and STIB/MIVB and the date of issue. The main card is valid for five years, counting from its issue date.
• The validation ticket bears the SNCB logo and the period during which you're entitled to the discount. The validation ticket is valid for 5 years.

Please remember that you main card must always be combined with a valid validation ticket, or it will not be accepted.

More info

The "Priority Seat card" and the "Free Carer card" may be combined with the Card on Patriotic Grounds.

* Prices valid from 1st February 2012