Since the new access gates were installed, travellers applying for combined NMBS/SNCB-MIVB/STIB tickets or subscriptions will receive a disposable smartcard or a MOBIB card along with their NMBS/SNCB pass.
The disposable smartcards or NMBS/SNCB MOBIB cards are cards with a chip that can be read by the MIVB/STIB ticket reader. They grant you access to the MIVB/STIB network while your Railcard is valid.
When renewing your current Railcard + MIVB/STIB or applying for a new one at any Belgian station, you automatically get an NMBS/SNCB MOBIB card that will be linked to your Railcard.
When buying a combined ticket, you will also receive a disposable smartcard from the ticket office. You can use the ticket and smartcard straight away on both networks (NMBS/SNCB + MIVB/STIB). On the train, just show your ticket to the train staff as you normally would. For travel on the MIVB/STIB network, you simply need to validate your smartcard at the MIVB/STIB ticket reader.
MOBIB – purchasing a combined ticket (video)
Since 2011, when you validate or buy a new combined Railcard, you automatically get an NMBS/SNCB MOBIB card that is linked to your Railcard. The MOBIB card replaces the current MIVB/STIB validation ticket.
The ticket office will therefore issue you with two tickets that you can use straight away on both networks (NMBS/SNCB + MIVB/STIB). On the train, just show your ticket to the train staff as you normally would. For travel on the MIVB/STIB network, you simply need to place your MOBIB card over the validation field on the ticket reader.
Issuing a MOBIB card takes a little longer than a regular renewal, as the card is personalised. We therefore advise you to apply in plenty of time. As your MOBIB card is personalised, please bring your electronic ID card or a recent photograph when you apply.
The card is valid for 5 years and costs € 5. Should you not use your MOBIB card for the entire 5 years, you can apply for a proportional refund at an MIVB/STIB ticket office: € 4 after 1 year, € 3 after 2 years, € 2 after 3 years and € 1 after 4 years.
Customers who already own an MIVB/STIB MOBIB card can bring it to an NMBS/SNCB ticket office in order to link it to their rail pass. They will then be able to use it as an NMBS/SNCB MOBIB card.
MOBIB – applying for a Railcard (video)