Can absences from Belgium break my five years for long-term residence?

The five-year requirement allows for normal travel. The Immigration Office indicates that absences of less than six consecutive months, and not exceeding roughly ten months in total across the five years, do not break the continuity of residence.

Longer or more frequent absences can reset or jeopardise your qualifying period, so it is wise to keep a record of your trips. If you expect an extended stay abroad, check the rules first to avoid unintentionally losing the continuous residence you have built up.