Belgium Visa Policy

Depending on the purpose and duration of your travel to Belgium, different types of visas will apply to the circumstance. Whether you are planning to go on a visit, study, or work and reside there permanently, you will have to apply for a different Belgian Visa, accordingly.

For the duration of stay Belgium visa falls into two categories:

• Short-stay (for stays up to 90 days)
• Long-stay (for stays more than 90 days)
• Transit 

Each of these categories has several subcategories according to the purpose of travel to Belgium.

Belgium Schengen Visa

As a part of the Schengen area, Belgium issues uniform Schengen visas for short stay visits (type C). 

Depending on the purpose, the subcategories of Belgium Schengen visa usually consist of:

• Tourism
• Business
• Family and Friend Visit
• Marriage
• Cohabitation
• Nannies
• Cultural and Sport Event
• Airport Transit
• Medical

Depending on the type and frequency of travel to Belgium, a Schengen visa can be single-entry, double-entry, and multi-entry. The validity period of a single Schengen visa usually covers the travel period specified in the Belgium visa application form. If you frequently travel to the Schengen area, you may obtain a one-, two-, three- and five-year multi-entry Schengen visa, depending on the Belgium consulate's decision. However, you should note that you can stay in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days in any case. In this case, holders of multi-entry long-term Schengen visas can remain in the Schengen area maximum of 90 days every 180 days.

Belgium Short-stay Visa Costs

When applying for a Schengen visa, each person must pay a visa fee. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa result. The Schengen visa fee for citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Armenia is currently 35 EUR. These three countries benefit from reduced visa costs under an agreement with the Schengen countries. In other countries, this amount is 80 EUR for people over 12 years old, 40 EUR for children 6-12 years old, and free for children under six years old.

In most cases, if you belong to one of the following categories, you are exempt from visa fees by providing relevant evidence:

• Close relatives of those legally living in the Schengen area (close relatives include spouse, children (including adopted), parents (or guardians), grandmothers, grandfathers, grandchildren);
• Pensioners;
• Members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, participating in formal meetings, consultations, negotiations, and exchange programs, as well as events of intergovernmental organizations based on an official invitation;
• Pupils, students, graduate students, and pedagogical staff traveling with them for research and educational purposes within the framework of the official educational program;
• People with disabilities and accompanying persons if necessary;
• Participants of international sports events and persons accompanying them in connection with their professional activities;
• Official visits of journalists and technical staff.

Belgium Tourist Visa

A visa is only intended to permit a foreign national to visit Belgium for a restricted period. This category of visa caters to people wishing to visit Belgium for touristic purposes either through buying a tour via a travel agency or through self-bookings of tickets and hotels.

Required Documents for Belgium Tourist Visa

1. Application Form

• Irrespective of age, everyone requires a separate application form printed from VisaOnWeb
• The application form should be fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant.
• For children under 18 years, the application form should be signed by a person with parental authority or by a legal guardian.

2. Photo

• One passport photo not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay or
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Proof of Financial Means

         In case of self-funding:

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

          In case of sponsorship:

• Latest 3 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Flight Reservation

• Only a round-trip flight reservation is required, the original ticket might be requested at the collection of the visa.

10. Hotel Reservation

• A prepaid hotel reservation which covers the whole duration of stay in the Schengen area
• The reservation should clearly state the visa applicant´s full name, dates of accommodation, hotel address, and contact details and be guaranteed with a valid credit card.
• In the case of owning a house or renting an apartment in Belgium, the contract should be provided.

11. Travel Plan

• A detailed daily program of your stay taking into consideration that if the applicant is traveling to Belgium and/or more than one Schengen country, it is necessary to include the information on means of transport (flight reservations, train connections, etc.) and accommodation (hotel reservations).

12. Travel Insurance Certificate

• Should cover the whole period of stay
• All medical expenses including emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for the period of your stay and must be valid for the whole Schengen territory (coverage at least 30.000 EUR).

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Tourist Visa

The average processing time for a Belgium Tourist visa is 5-30 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Tourist Visa Fee

When applying for a Schengen visa, each person must pay a visa fee. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa result. The Schengen visa fee for citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Armenia is currently 35 EUR. These three countries benefit from reduced visa costs under an agreement with the Schengen countries. In other countries, this amount is 80 EUR for people over 12 years old, 40 EUR for children 6-12 years old, and free for children under six years old.

In most cases, if you belong to one of the following categories, you are exempt from visa fees by providing relevant evidence:

• Close relatives of those legally living in the Schengen area (close relatives include spouse, children (including adopted), parents (or guardians), grandmothers, grandfathers, grandchildren);
• Pensioners;
• Members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, participating in formal meetings, consultations, negotiations, and exchange programs, as well as events of intergovernmental organizations based on an official invitation;
• Pupils, students, graduate students, and pedagogical staff traveling with them for research and educational purposes within the framework of the official educational program;
• People with disabilities and accompanying persons if necessary;
• Participants of international sports events and persons accompanying them in connection with their professional activities;
• Official visits of journalists and technical staff.

Where to Apply for Belgium Tourist Visa?

You will apply for the Belgium Tourist Visa in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Business Visa

A visa is only intended to permit a foreign national to visit Belgium for a limited period. This category of visa caters to people wishing to visit Belgium for work reasons (to sign the contract, participate in a business meeting, etc.). Still, it does not allow us to carry out professional activity. The applicant will have to provide evidence that he/she falls under this category.

Required Documents for Belgium Business Visa

1. Application Form

• Irrespective of age, everyone requires a separate application form printed from VisaOnWeb
• The application form should be fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant.
• For children under 18 years, the application form should be signed by a person with parental authority or by a legal guardian.

2. Photo

• One passport photo not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay or
  • In the case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Evidence of Employment Status

    From the employer:

• A stamped and signed employment certificate mentioning the designation, date of employment, salary, the purpose of visit, and financial arrangements. The letter should also include the intended travel dates

    From a business owner/partner:

• A copy of the Trade, Professional, or Commercial License

8. Flight Reservation

• Only a round-trip flight reservation is required, the original ticket might be requested at the collection of the visa.

9. Hotel Reservation

• A prepaid hotel reservation which covers the whole duration of stay in the Schengen area
• The reservation should clearly state the visa applicant´s full name, dates of accommodation, hotel address, and contact details and be guaranteed with a valid credit card.
• In the case of owning a house or renting an apartment in Belgium, the contract should be provided.

10. From the Hosting Company

• An official company letter issued by a Belgian firm/organization with stamp and signature, clearly mentioning the full address and the contacts of the company, purpose, and duration of the visit, and financial arrangements
• If training, a detailed program should be provided
• If a conference, training, exam, or attending an exhibition, proof of registration and fees are paid.

11. Proof of Commercial Relations

• Proof of commercial relations with the inviting company for example bills of ladings with the corresponding invoices, swift, related customs clearance documents, etc.

12. Travel Insurance Certificate

• Should cover the whole period of stay
• All medical expenses including emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for the period of your stay and must be valid for the whole Schengen territory (coverage at least 30.000 EUR).

13. Proof of Sufficient Financial Means

• Original stamped and signed personal bank statement for the last three months showing regular income, no deposits
• If the applicant is an owner of a company or a partner, he can submit the bank statement of the company with a letter from the bank proving he is a signatory on this bank account.
• Bank statements should not be “credit card statements”.
• If not enough balance on the current account, the applicant should additionally provide bank statements of the “saving accounts” for the last 3 months.
• The bank statement must show the applicant’s name and be stamped and signed by the bank’s representative (cash is not accepted as proof of funds).

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Business Visa

The average processing time for a Belgium Business visa is 5-30 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Business Visa Fee

When applying for a Schengen visa, each person must pay a visa fee. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa result. The Schengen visa fee for citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Armenia is currently 35 EUR. These three countries benefit from reduced visa costs under an agreement with the Schengen countries. In other countries, this amount is 80 EUR for people over 12 years old, 40 EUR for children 6-12 years old, and free for children under six years old.

In most cases, if you belong to one of the following categories, you are exempt from visa fees by providing relevant evidence:

• Close relatives of those legally living in the Schengen area (close relatives include spouse, children (including adopted), parents (or guardians), grandmothers, grandfathers, grandchildren);
• Pensioners;
• Members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, participating in formal meetings, consultations, negotiations, and exchange programs, as well as events of intergovernmental organizations based on an official invitation;
• Pupils, students, graduate students, and pedagogical staff traveling with them for research and educational purposes within the framework of the official educational program;
• People with disabilities and accompanying persons if necessary;
• Participants of international sports events and persons accompanying them in connection with their professional activities;
• Official visits of journalists and technical staff.

Where to Apply for Belgium Business Visa?

You will apply for a Belgium Business visa in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Marriage Visa

This visa applies to those who want to marriage in Belgium.

After the visa is issued, the request for a long stay in Belgium following the marriage must be submitted to the municipality of residence in Belgium of husband/wife.

Required Documents for Belgium Marriage Visa

1. Application Form

• Three application forms (Original+2 copies) fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant. VisaOnWeb

2. Photo

• One passport photo not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay or
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Civil Status Record

• A proof of civil status record that the applicant is single, or
• Copy of divorce certificate, or
• Copy of death certificate of partner/spouse.

8. Medical Certificate

• A medical certificate attesting that you are not carrying any of the diseases which might endanger public health.
• This certificate must be no older than 6 months from the date of issuance.
• The specific form must be signed and stamped by one of the Embassy’s accredited doctors.

9. Non-criminal Record Certificate

• A legalized certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or offenses under common law, together with a translation. This certificate must be no older than 3 months from the date of issuance.
• In case you reside in a foreign country the months before applying, you should moreover submit a certificate issued by the relevant authorities of that foreign country legalized by the Belgian embassy abroad or with an Apostil.

10. Travel Insurance Certificate

• Should be valid for 90 days.
• All medical expenses including emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for the period of your stay and must be valid for the whole
• Schengen territory (coverage at least 30.000 EUR).

11. Deed of Declaration of Marriage

• Deed of declaration of marriage established by the Registry Officer (Civil Status) in the 6 months prior to the visa application.

12. Copy of ID Card/Residence Permit of the Person to be Joined in Belgium

• A copy of the identity card of the Belgian or a copy of the residence permit of the foreigner (Card A, B, C, D, F, F+, or H).

13. Proof of Accommodation

• Proof that the party being joined has sufficient accommodation. This evidence can be done either, by a copy of the property’s title assigned to his principal residence housing, or by a copy of a registered lease contract concerning housing assigned to his principal residence.

14. Solvency of the Person to be Joined

• Proof that the person being joined has stable, regular, and sufficient means of subsistence during the last 12 months to meet his own needs and those of the members of his family and avoid them becoming a burden on the public authorities.

15. Mutual Insurance Company

• Proof that the person to be joined is affiliated to a Mutual Health Insurance Company (Mutualiteit / Mutualité) covering the risks for himself/herself.

16. Proof of Solvency of the Applicant

• The documents indicating that you have sufficient personal means of subsistence, both for the duration of your stay on the Schengen territory and for the transit to a third country in which your admission is guaranteed for example:
• Bank statements from the last 3 months, no deposits.

Bank statements should not be “credit card statements” but a current account of your regular revenues (salary, pension, etc.), or:

• A letter of guarantee (in the prescribed form “Annexe 3bis”/“Bijlage 3bis”) not older than 6 months
• Copy of the guarantor’s 3 most recent salary sheets /guarantor’s most recent tax sheet/ other official proof 3 of the guarantor’s solvency
• A photocopy of the identity card or the unlimited residence permit of the guarantor.
• An original certificate of the family composition of the guarantor issued by his/her municipality in Belgium (no residence certificate).

17. Flight Reservation

• Only a round-trip flight reservation is required, the original ticket might be requested at the collection of the visa.

18. Proof of the Permanent and Stable Character of the Relationship

• A history of the relationship and proof of the permanent and stable character of the relationship (photographs, letters, emails, telephone bills, money transfers, copies of previous visas and immigration stamps, signed declarations of friends and relatives, proof of holidays together, etc.)

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Marriage Visa

The average processing time for a Belgium Marriage visa is 5-30 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Marriage Visa Fee

When applying for a Schengen visa, each person must pay a visa fee. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa result. The Schengen visa fee for citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Armenia is currently 35 EUR. These three countries benefit from reduced visa costs under an agreement with the Schengen countries. In other countries, this amount is 80 EUR for people over 12 years old, 40 EUR for children 6-12 years old, and free for children under six years old.

In most cases, if you belong to one of the following categories, you are exempt from visa fees by providing relevant evidence:

• Close relatives of those legally living in the Schengen area (close relatives include spouse, children (including adopted), parents (or guardians), grandmothers, grandfathers, grandchildren);
• Pensioners;
• Members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, participating in formal meetings, consultations, negotiations, and exchange programs, as well as events of intergovernmental organizations based on an official invitation;
• Pupils, students, graduate students, and pedagogical staff traveling with them for research and educational purposes within the framework of the official educational program;
• People with disabilities and accompanying persons if necessary;
• Participants of international sports events and persons accompanying them in connection with their professional activities;
• Official visits of journalists and technical staff.

Where to Apply for Belgium Marriage Visa?

You will apply for a Belgium Marriage visa in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Visa for Visiting Family and Friends

A visa is only intended to permit a foreign national to visit Belgium for a limited period. This category of visa caters to people wishing to visit a member of his/her family or friend.

Required Documents for Belgium Visiting Family and Friends Visa

1. Application Form

• Irrespective of age, everyone requires a separate application form printed from VisaOnWeb
• The application form should be fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant.
• For children under 18 years, the application form should be signed by a person with parental authority or by a legal guardian.

2. Photo

• One passport photo not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay or
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Proof of Financial Means

         In case of self-funding:

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

          In case of sponsorship:

• Latest 3 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Flight Reservation

• Only a round-trip flight reservation is required, the original ticket might be requested at the collection of the visa.

10. Hotel Reservation

• A prepaid hotel reservation which covers the whole duration of stay in the Schengen area
• The reservation should clearly state the visa applicant´s full name, dates of accommodation, hotel address, and contact details and be guaranteed with a valid credit card.
• In the case of owning a house or renting an apartment in Belgium, the contract should be provided.

11. Travel Plan

• A detailed daily program of your stay taking into consideration that if the applicant is traveling to Belgium and/or more than one Schengen country, it is necessary to include the information on means of transport (flight reservations, train connections, etc.) and accommodation (hotel reservations).

12. Travel Insurance Certificate

• Should cover the whole period of stay
• All medical expenses including emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for the period of your stay and must be valid for the whole Schengen territory (coverage at least 30.000 EUR).

13. Original Formal Obligation (Annex 3bis) Signed by your Guarantor in Belgium (Hosting person)

• A formal obligation (in the prescribed form “Annex 3 bis” / “Bijlage 3 bis” not older than 6 months
• Copy of the guarantor’s 3 most recent salary sheets /guarantor’s most recent tax sheet/ other official proof 3 of the guarantor’s solvency
• A photocopy of the identity card or the unlimited residence permit of the guarantor.
• An original certificate of the family composition of the guarantor issued by his/her municipality in Belgium (no residence certificate).

14. Invitation Letter (in case staying with a private individual)

• An invitation letter signed by your relative and stating the address as well where you are going to stay.
• Copy of the Belgian ID or residence card of the family member you intend to visit

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Family Visit Visa

The average processing time for a Belgium Family Visit visa is 5-30 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Family Visit Visa Fee

When applying for a Schengen visa, each person must pay a visa fee. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa result. The Schengen visa fee for citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Armenia is currently 35 EUR. These three countries benefit from reduced visa costs under an agreement with the Schengen countries. In other countries, this amount is 80 EUR for people over 12 years old, 40 EUR for children 6-12 years old, and free for children under six years old.

In most cases, if you belong to one of the following categories, you are exempt from visa fees by providing relevant evidence:

• Close relatives of those legally living in the Schengen area (close relatives include spouse, children (including adopted), parents (or guardians), grandmothers, grandfathers, grandchildren);
• Pensioners;
• Members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, participating in formal meetings, consultations, negotiations, and exchange programs, as well as events of intergovernmental organizations based on an official invitation;
• Pupils, students, graduate students, and pedagogical staff traveling with them for research and educational purposes within the framework of the official educational program;
• People with disabilities and accompanying persons if necessary;
• Participants of international sports events and persons accompanying them in connection with their professional activities;
• Official visits of journalists and technical staff.

Where to Apply for Belgium Family Visit Visa?

You will apply for a Belgium Family Visit visa in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Cohabitation Visa

This visa applies to those who want to declare legal cohabitation in Belgium. After the visa is issued, the request for a long stay in Belgium following the declared legal cohabitation must be submitted to the municipality of residence in Belgium of partner. A prospective applicant shall present the documents indicating the purpose of the journey, i.e., a history of the relationship and proof of the permanent and stable character of the relationship (partnership registered under a law).

Required Documents for Belgium Cohabitation Visa

1. Application Form

• Three application forms (Original+2 copies) fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant. VisaOnWeb

2. Photo

• One passport photo not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Civil Status Record

• A proof of civil status record that the applicant is single, or
• Copy of Divorce certificate, or
• Copy of death certificate of partner/spouse.

8. Medical Certificate

• A medical certificate attesting that you are not carrying any of the diseases which might endanger public health.
• This certificate must be no older than 6 months from the date of issuance.
• The specific form must be signed and stamped by one of the Embassy’s accredited doctors.

9. Non-criminal Record Certificate

• A legalized certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or offenses under common law, together with a translation. This certificate must be no older than 3 months from the date of issuance.
• In case you reside in a foreign country the months before applying, you should moreover submit a certificate issued by the relevant authorities of that foreign country legalized by the Belgian embassy abroad or with an apostil.

10. Travel Insurance Certificate

• Should be valid for 90 days.
• All medical expenses, including emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for the period of your stay and, must be valid for the whole Schengen territory (coverage at least 30.000 EUR).

11. Copy of ID Card/Residence Permit of the Person to be Joined in Belgium

• A copy of the identity card of the Belgian or a copy of the residence permit of the foreigner (Card A, B, C, D, F, F+, or H).

12. Sufficient Accommodation

• Proof that the party being joined has sufficient accommodation. This evidence can be done either by a copy of the property’s title assigned to his principal residence housing or by a copy of a registered lease contract concerning housing assigned to his principal residence.

13. Solvency of the Person to be Joined

• Proof that the person being joined has stable, regular, and sufficient means of subsistence during the last 12 months to meet his own needs and those of the members of his family and avoid them becoming a burden on the public authorities.

14. Mutual Insurance Company

• Proof that the person to be joined is affiliated to a Mutual Health Insurance Company (Mutualiteit / Mutualité) covering the risks for himself/herself.

15. Proof of Solvency of the Applicant

• The documents indicating that you have sufficient personal means of subsistence, both for the duration of your stay on the Schengen territory and for the transit to a third country in which your admission is guaranteed for example:
• Bank statements from the last 3 months, no deposits.

Bank statements should not be “credit card statements” but a current account of your regular revenues (salary, pension, etc.), or:

• A letter of guarantee (in the prescribed form “Annexe 3bis”/“Bijlage 3bis”) not older than 6 months
• Copy of the guarantor’s 3 most recent salary sheets /guarantor’s most recent tax sheet/ other official proof 3 of the guarantor’s solvency
• A photocopy of the identity card or the unlimited residence permit of the guarantor.
• An original certificate of the family composition of the guarantor issued by his/her municipality in Belgium (no residence certificate).

16. Proof of the Permanent and Stable Character of the Relationship

• A history of the relationship and proof of the permanent and stable character of the relationship (photographs, letters, emails, telephone bills, money transfers, copies of previous visas and immigration stamps, signed declarations of friends and relatives, proof of holidays together, etc.)

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Cohabitation Visa

The average processing time for a Belgium Cohabitation visa is 5-30 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Cohabitation Visa Fee

When applying for a Schengen visa, each person must pay a visa fee. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa result. The Schengen visa fee for citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Armenia is currently 35 EUR. These three countries benefit from reduced visa costs under an agreement with the Schengen countries. In other countries, this amount is 80 EUR for people over 12 years old, 40 EUR for children 6-12 years old, and free for children under six years old.

In most cases, if you belong to one of the following categories, you are exempt from visa fees by providing relevant evidence:

• Close relatives of those legally living in the Schengen area (close relatives include spouse, children (including adopted), parents (or guardians), grandmothers, grandfathers, grandchildren);
• Pensioners;
• Members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, participating in formal meetings, consultations, negotiations, and exchange programs, as well as events of intergovernmental organizations based on an official invitation;
• Pupils, students, graduate students, and pedagogical staff traveling with them for research and educational purposes within the framework of the official educational program;
• People with disabilities and accompanying persons if necessary;
• Participants of international sports events and persons accompanying them in connection with their professional activities;
• Official visits of journalists and technical staff.

Where to Apply for Belgium Cohabitation Visa?

You will apply for a Belgium Cohabitation visa in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Visa for Cultural and Sports Event

A visa is only intended to permit a foreign national to visit Belgium for a limited period. This category of visa caters to people wishing to visit Belgium with the purpose of participation in Cultural or Sports event.

Required Documents for Belgium Cultural and Sports Event Visa

1. Application Form

• Irrespective of age, everyone requires a separate application form printed from VisaOnWeb
• The application form should be fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant.
• For children under 18 years, the application form should be signed by a person with parental authority or by a legal guardian.

2. Photo

• One passport photo not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Proof of Financial Means

         In case of self-funding:

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

          In case of sponsorship:

• Latest 3 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Flight Reservation

• Only a round-trip flight reservation is required, the original ticket might be requested at the collection of the visa.

10. Hotel Reservation

• A prepaid hotel reservation that covers the whole duration of stay in the Schengen area.
• The reservation should clearly state the visa applicant´s full name, dates of accommodation, hotel address, and contact details and be guaranteed with a valid credit card.
• In the case of owning a house or renting an apartment in Belgium, the contract should be provided.

11. Travel Plan

• A detailed daily program of your stay taking into consideration that if the applicant is traveling to Belgium and/or more than one Schengen country, it is necessary to include the information on means of transport (flight reservations, train connections, etc.) and accommodation (hotel reservations).

12. Documents Provided by the Cultural or Sports Organization “Sponsor”

• A letter provided by the federation if sports event/organization is a cultural event indicating the following:
  • Full address and contacts of the organization.
  • The name and position of the countersigning officer.
  • The name, position, salary, and years of employment (only for professionals).
  • Confirmation of participation.
  • The entity that will pay for costs of travel and living.

13. Documents Provided by the Organizer of the Event In Belgium

• A letter provided by the organizer indicating the following:
  • Purpose and duration of the stay.
  • Detailed program and itinerary.
  • The entity that will pay for them.
  • Proof of lodging during the period of the intended stay.

14. Travel Insurance Certificate

• Should cover the whole period of stay.
• All medical expenses including emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for the period of your stay and must be valid for the whole Schengen territory (coverage at least 30.000 EUR).

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Cultural Visa

The average processing time for a Belgium Cultural visa is 5-30 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Cultural Visa Fee

When applying for a Schengen visa, each person must pay a visa fee. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa result. The Schengen visa fee for citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Armenia is currently 35 EUR. These three countries benefit from reduced visa costs under an agreement with the Schengen countries. In other countries, this amount is 80 EUR for people over 12 years old, 40 EUR for children 6-12 years old, and free for children under six years old.

In most cases, if you belong to one of the following categories, you are exempt from visa fees by providing relevant evidence:

• Close relatives of those legally living in the Schengen area (close relatives include spouse, children (including adopted), parents (or guardians), grandmothers, grandfathers, grandchildren);
• Pensioners;
• Members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, participating in formal meetings, consultations, negotiations, and exchange programs, as well as events of intergovernmental organizations based on an official invitation;
• Pupils, students, graduate students, and pedagogical staff traveling with them for research and educational purposes within the framework of the official educational program;
• People with disabilities and accompanying persons if necessary;
• Participants of international sports events and persons accompanying them in connection with their professional activities;
• Official visits of journalists and technical staff.

Where to Apply for Belgium Cultural Visa?

You will apply for a Belgium Cultural visa in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Medical Visa

Belgium Medical Visa is for patients that need to obtain medical care in one of the hospitals or clinics in Belgium.

Required Documents for Belgium Medical Visa

1. Application Form

• Irrespective of age, everyone requires a separate application form printed from VisaOnWeb
• The application form should be fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant.
• For children under 18 years, the application form should be signed by a person with parental authority or by a legal guardian.

2. Photo

• One passport photo not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Evidence of Employment Status from the Employer:

• A stamped and signed employment certificate mentioning the designation, date of employment, salary, the purpose of visit, and financial arrangements.
• The letter should also include the intended travel dates

     From a business owner/partner:

• A copy of the Trade, Professional, or Commercial License

8. Medical Certificate

• A medical certificate indicating the exact medical condition of the patient and stating that medical treatment is not available in the country.
• The specific form must be issued, signed, and stamped by one of the Embassy’s accredited doctors.

9. Medical Appointment in Belgium

• An official document issued by the health care facility in Belgium showing the appointment for the medical treatment.
• Any other correspondence between the physician of the patient and the clinic in Belgium.
• Medical reports

10. Proof of Payment of the Medical Treatment

• Proof that the costs of medical treatment/surgery have been paid.
• Proof that a governmental sector or insurance company is going to pay the medical expenses.

11. Flight Reservation

• Only a round-trip flight reservation is required, the original ticket might be requested at the collection of the visa.

12. Hotel Reservation

• A prepaid hotel reservation which covers the whole duration of stay in the Schengen area
• The reservation should clearly state the visa applicant´s full name, dates of accommodation, hotel address, and contact details and be guaranteed with a valid credit card.
• In the case of owning a house or renting an apartment in Belgium, the contract should be provided.

13. Travel Insurance Certificate

• Should cover the whole period of stay
• All medical expenses including emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for the period of your stay and must be valid for the whole Schengen territory (coverage at least 30.000 EUR).

14. Proof of Sufficient Financial Means

• Personal bank statements from the last three months showing regular income (salary, pension, etc.…)
• If the applicant is an owner of a company or a partner, he can submit the bank statement of the company with a letter from the bank proving he is a signatory on this bank account.
• Bank statements should not be “credit card statements”
• If not enough balance on the current account, the applicant should additionally provide bank statements of the “saving accounts” for the last 3 months.
• The bank statement must show the applicant’s name and be stamped and signed by the bank’s representative (cash is not accepted as proof of funds).
• For retired persons: proof of pension or other regular income
• For unemployed adults/unaccompanied minors/students: any other proof of regular income or letter of sponsorship in English from the parent (or person in charge) with their proof of sufficient regular income (bank statement showing a salary/pension) as well as employment certificate of the person in charge.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Medical Visa

The average processing time for a Belgium Medical visa is 5-30 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Medical Visa Fee

When applying for a Schengen visa, each person must pay a visa fee. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa result. The Schengen visa fee for citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Armenia is currently 35 EUR. These three countries benefit from reduced visa costs under an agreement with the Schengen countries. In other countries, this amount is 80 EUR for people over 12 years old, 40 EUR for children 6-12 years old, and free for children under six years old.

In most cases, if you belong to one of the following categories, you are exempt from visa fees by providing relevant evidence:

• Close relatives of those legally living in the Schengen area (close relatives include spouse, children (including adopted), parents (or guardians), grandmothers, grandfathers, grandchildren);
• Pensioners;
• Members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, participating in formal meetings, consultations, negotiations, and exchange programs, as well as events of intergovernmental organizations based on an official invitation;
• Pupils, students, graduate students, and pedagogical staff traveling with them for research and educational purposes within the framework of the official educational program;
• People with disabilities and accompanying persons if necessary;
• Participants of international sports events and persons accompanying them in connection with their professional activities;
• Official visits of journalists and technical staff.

Where to Apply for Belgium Medical Visa?

You will apply for the Belgium Medical Visa in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Transit Visa allows you to transit through the international zone of the International Airport with no access to the Schengen space, before flying back to your destination. The length of the visa validity shall correspond to the time necessary for the purpose of the transit.

Required Documents for Belgium Transit Visa

1. Application Form

• Irrespective of age, everyone requires a separate application form printed from VisaOnWeb
• The application form should be fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant.
• For children under 18 years, the application form should be signed by a person with parental authority or by a legal guardian.

2. Photo

• One passport photo not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay or
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copies of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Documents Related to the Continuation of the Journey Onwards to the Destination After the Intended Airport Transits, Including Visa Copy if Needed.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy

Processing Time for Belgium Transit Visa

The average processing time for a Belgium Transit visa is 5-30 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Transit Visa Fee

When applying for a Schengen visa, each person must pay a visa fee. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa result. The Schengen visa fee for citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Armenia is currently 35 EUR. These three countries benefit from reduced visa costs under an agreement with the Schengen countries. In other countries, this amount is 80 EUR for people over 12 years old, 40 EUR for children 6-12 years old, and free for children under six years old.

In most cases, if you belong to one of the following categories, you are exempt from visa fees by providing relevant evidence:

• Close relatives of those legally living in the Schengen area (close relatives include spouse, children (including adopted), parents (or guardians), grandmothers, grandfathers, grandchildren);
• Pensioners;
• Members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, participating in formal meetings, consultations, negotiations, and exchange programs, as well as events of intergovernmental organizations based on an official invitation;
• Pupils, students, graduate students, and pedagogical staff traveling with them for research and educational purposes within the framework of the official educational program;
• People with disabilities and accompanying persons if necessary;
• Participants of international sports events and persons accompanying them in connection with their professional activities;
• Official visits of journalists and technical staff.

Where to Apply for Belgium Transit Visa?

You will apply for a Belgium Transit visa in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium National (Long-term) Visa

If you wish to reside in Belgium for an extended period (more than 90 days), you need to apply for a long-term visa. There are the following types of Belgium long-term visas:

• Work Permit (Single Permit)
• Professional Card (Art 9)
• Students Visa Subsidized Institute Art. 58
• Student Visa Private Institute Art. 9
• Family Reunion with A Non-Eu Temporary Residence Permit Art. 10bis
• Family Reunion with A Non-Eu Permanent Residence Art 10
• Family Reunion with A Belgian Spouse (Art. 40er)
• Au Pair
• Researchers

Visa Cost For Belgium Long-stay Visa

The Visa fee for the Belgium National (D type) visa is 180 EUR. Visa fee is waived for people falling into one of the following categories:

• Spouse/partner and children (under the age of 21) of EU and Swiss citizens
• Students in the programs of Erasmus Mundus, Lotus, and Tempus
• Students with a scholarship from the Belgian State (Federal State or Regional Authorities) (like DGCD, VLIR, etc.); from Belgian Universities and Belgian High Schools and from European Commission or European Institutions
• Researchers who have a scholarship from a Belgian University (including researchers who have signed a “gastovereenkomst – convention d’accueil”).

Starting from 1 March 2017 a new administrative fee must be paid before the submission of some long stay visas for Belgium. This fee must be paid to the Immigration office, Belgium by the applicant, or by a third party that can be in Belgium (family member, employer, sponsor). The proof of payment must be provided together with the visa application. Some applicants do not have to pay this fee.

The administrative fee must be paid to Immigration Office, Belgium in euro by bank transfer, directly to the following bank account:

Bank:

BPOST N.V., Muntcentrum, 1000 Brussel

Beneficiary:

FOD Binnenlandse Zaken, Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken, Antwerpse Steenweg 59B, 1000 Brussel

Account information:

IBAN: BE57 6792 0060 9235

BIC: PCHQBEBB

Reference:

The reference must be according to the following structure:

• Surname & First name of the applicant (as mentioned in the passport)
• Nationality
• Date of birth: day (dd) – month (MM) – Year (YYYY)
• Purpose (Article of the law of 15.12.1980).

Therefore: SURNAME_Given name_Nationality_Date of Birth (DD.MM.YYYY) _Article58_Law15.12.1980.

Example: YANG_CHUAN_PAKISTANI_01.02.1930_Article58_Law 15.12.1980

Fee waivers

The administrative fee is not payable if the applicant:

• Is aged under 18;
• Is a citizen of the European Union or of the European Economic Area applying for a registration certificate, or a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a citizen of the European Union or the European Economic Area applying for a residence permit OR a family member of a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a Belgian citizen who exercises or who has exercised his/her right of free movement, and are applying for a residence permit, i.e. a family member of a Belgian citizen who is returning or has returned to Belgium after residing legally for more than 3 months in another member state of the European Union. However, in order to be exempted from payment of the fee, you must have been part of the household of this Belgian citizen in the other member state of the European Union (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying for asylum or subsidiary protection;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the spouse or partner of a foreigner to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the father or mother of a foreigner who is aged under 18 and to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium for medical reasons (article 9ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Submits a  formulaire-type (.pdf) - Standard form (Eng) (.pdf) confirming that he receives a scholarship or fellowship from an authority or institution indicated in article 1er/1 of the royal decree of 08/10/1981 and are applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study and/or carry out research;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the single handicapped child aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen or of a foreigner authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F, or F+) or temporarily (card A or H). However, in order to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to submit a certificate issued by a doctor accredited by a Belgian embassy or consulate, indicating that you are unable to support yourself because of your handicap (articles 10, 10bis, or 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a beneficiary or family member of a beneficiary of the EEC-Turkey association agreement, signed on 12/09/1963 (= a Turkish citizen who comes to work in Belgium).

Fee Payable

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 63 € when:

• He is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long term resident status in another member state of the European Union (article 61/7, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the family member of a foreigner authorized to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long-term resident status in another member state of the European Union. However, to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, the applicant must have been part of the long-term resident's household in this member state (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980).

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 207 € when:

• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who is authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F or F+) (article 10, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who has a temporary residence in Belgium (card A or H) (article 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse, partner, or non-handicapped descendent aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen who does not or has not exercised their right to free movement (Cf. definition in Exemptions) (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980); 
• He is applying for residence as the father or mother of a Belgian child aged under 18 (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study in a higher education institution that is organized, recognized, or subsidized by the public authorities (article 58, the law of 15.12.1980);
• He is applying for a change in status and this new status is subjected to an administrative charge of 207 €;
• His right of residence is recognized by an international treaty, law, or royal decree (article 10, §1,1°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He meets the legal requirements to re-acquire Belgian nationality (article 10, §1, 2°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• She lost Belgian nationality on marriage or because her husband acquired a foreign nationality (article 10, §1,3°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium with a valid registration certificate issued within the framework of a family reunion procedure and is requesting a return visa.

Unless the applicant exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to pay 363 € when:

• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to carry out professional activities, study in a private educational institution, carry out research, or for humanitarian reasons, etc. (articles 9, 9bis, 61/11 and 61/27, the law of 15/12/1980 - article 25/2, Royal Decree of 08/10/1981);
• He is applying for a change in status and this new status is subjected to an administrative fee of 363 €;
• He is applying for authorization to return to Belgium after an absence of more than one year (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980 & Royal Decree of 07/08/1995);
• He is applying to re-acquire long-term resident status after a long absence (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium and wishes to return, but his residence permit (card A, B, C, D, or H) is no longer valid (return visa).

Belgium Work Permit (Single Permit)

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa (type D), allowing them to stay in the territory of the Kingdom of Belgium for over 90 days. This visa applies for those who want to work within the legal frame of employment upon taking an employment permit and the work permit as per appointed procedure from competent regional authorities.

Required Documents for Belgium Work (Long-term) Permit (Single Permit)

1. Application Form

• Two application forms fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant (printed from VisaOnWeb)

2. Photo

• One passport photo not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay or
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copies of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Copy of Annex 46 or 47

• Copy of the e-mail received by the Belgian concerned authorities granting the work permit.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Work (Long-term) Permit (Single Permit) Visa

The average processing time for a Belgium Work (Long-term) Permit (Single Permit) visa is 10-45 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Work (Long-term) Permit (Single Permit) Visa Fee

The Visa fee for the Belgium National (D type) visa is 180 EUR. Visa fee is waived for people falling into one of the following categories:

• Spouse/partner and children (under the age of 21) of EU and Swiss citizens
• Students in the programs of Erasmus Mundus, Lotus, and Tempus
• Students with a scholarship from the Belgian State (Federal State or Regional Authorities) (like DGCD, VLIR, etc.); from Belgian Universities and Belgian High Schools and from European Commission or European Institutions
• Researchers who have a scholarship from a Belgian University (including researchers who have signed a “gastovereenkomst – convention d’accueil”).

Starting from 1 March 2017, a new administrative fee must be paid before the submission of some long stay visas for Belgium. This fee must be paid to the Immigration office, Belgium, by the applicant, or by a third party, which can be in Belgium (family member, employer, sponsor). The proof of payment must be provided together with the visa application. Some applicants do not have to pay this fee.

The administrative fee must be paid to Immigration Office, Belgium in euro by bank transfer, directly to the following bank account:

Bank:

BPOST N.V., Muntcentrum, 1000 Brussel

Beneficiary:

FOD Binnenlandse Zaken, Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken, Antwerpse Steenweg 59B, 1000 Brussel

Account information:

IBAN: BE57 6792 0060 9235

BIC: PCHQBEBB

Reference:

The reference must be according to the following structure:

• Surname & First name of the applicant (as mentioned in the passport)
• Nationality
• Date of birth: day (dd) – month (MM) – Year (YYYY)
• Purpose (Article of the law of 15.12.1980).

Therefore: Surname_Given name_Nationality_Date of Birth (DD.MM.YYYY) _Article58_Law15.12.1980.

Example: YANG_CHUAN_PAKISTANI_01.02.1930_Article58_Law 15.12.1980

Fee Waivers

The administrative fee is not payable if the applicant:

• Is aged under 18;
• Is a citizen of the European Union or of the European Economic Area applying for a registration certificate, or a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a citizen of the European Union or the European Economic Area applying for a residence permit OR a family member of a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a Belgian citizen who exercises or who has exercised his/her right of free movement and are applying for a residence permit, i.e., a family member of a Belgian citizen who is returning or has returned to Belgium after residing legally for more than 3 months in another member state of the European Union. However, in order to be exempted from payment of the fee, you must have been part of the household of this Belgian citizen in the other member state of the European Union (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying for asylum or subsidiary protection;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the spouse or partner of a foreigner to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the father or mother of a foreigner who is aged under 18 and to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium for medical reasons (article 9ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Submits a  formulaire-type (.pdf) - Standard form (Eng) (.pdf) confirming that he receives a scholarship or fellowship from an authority or institution indicated in article 1er/1 of the royal decree of 08/10/1981 and are applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study and/or carry out research;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the single handicapped child aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen or of a foreigner authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F, or F+) or temporarily (card A or H). However, in order to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to submit a certificate issued by a doctor accredited by a Belgian embassy or consulate, indicating that you are unable to support yourself because of your handicap (articles 10, 10bis, or 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a beneficiary or family member of a beneficiary of the EEC-Turkey association agreement, signed on 12/09/1963 (= a Turkish citizen who comes to work in Belgium).

Fee Payable

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 63 € when:

• He is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long term resident status in another member state of the European Union (article 61/7, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the family member of a foreigner authorized to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long-term resident status in another member state of the European Union. However, to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, the applicant must have been part of the long-term resident's household in this member state (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980).

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 207 € when:

• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who is authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F or F+) (article 10, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who has a temporary residence in Belgium (card A or H) (article 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse, partner, or non-handicapped descendent aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen who does not or has not exercised their right to free movement (Cf. definition in Exemptions) (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980); 
• He is applying for residence as the father or mother of a Belgian child aged under 18 (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study in a higher education institution that is organized, recognized, or subsidized by the public authorities (article 58, the law of 15.12.1980);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative charge of 207 €;
• His right of residence is recognized by an international treaty, law, or royal decree (article 10, §1,1°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He meets the legal requirements to re-acquire Belgian nationality (article 10, §1, 2°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• She lost Belgian nationality on marriage or because her husband acquired a foreign nationality (article 10, §1,3°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium with a valid registration certificate issued within the framework of a family reunion procedure and is requesting a return visa.

Unless the applicant exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to pay 363 € when:

• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to carry out professional activities, study in a private educational institution, carry out research, or for humanitarian reasons, etc. (articles 9, 9bis, 61/11 and 61/27, the law of 15/12/1980 - article 25/2, Royal Decree of 08/10/1981);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative fee of 363 €;
• He is applying for authorization to return to Belgium after an absence of more than one year (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980 & Royal Decree of 07/08/1995);
• He is applying to re-acquire long-term resident status after a long absence (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium and wishes to return, but his residence permit (card A, B, C, D, or H) is no longer valid (return visa).

Where to Apply for Belgium Work (Long-term) Permit (Single Permit) Visa?

You will apply for the Belgium Work (Long-term) Permit (Single Permit) visa in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Professional Card (Art 9)

A Professional Card is a form of authorization for self-employed persons and directors who are not citizens of Belgium; are not citizens of a Member State of the European Economic Region (EU plus Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein) or of Switzerland; or have not been exempted, for other purposes, from the permission requirement.

Required Documents for Belgium Professional Card (Art 9)

1. Application Form

• Two application forms fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant (printed from VisaOnWeb)

2. Photo

• Three passport photos not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copies of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Contribution Fees

• The applicant must provide proof of payment of the administrative fee at the submission of his/her visa application. If this is not the case, the visa application is not admissible.

8. Medical Certificate

• A medical certificate attesting that you are not carrying any of the diseases which might endanger public health.
• This certificate must be no older than 6 months from the date of issuance.
• The specific form must be signed and stamped by one of the Embassy’s accredited doctors.

9. Non-criminal Record Certificate

• A legalized certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or offenses under common law, together with a translation. This certificate must be no older than 3 months from the date of issuance.
• In case you reside in a foreign country the months before applying, you should moreover submit a certificate issued by the relevant authorities of that foreign country legalized by the Belgian embassy abroad or with an apostil.

10. Professional Card Approval

• The authorization from the Federal Public Service Economy, SMEs, Self-Employed and Energy for issuance of a Professional Card (mainly sent by e-mail to applicants and Embassy).

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Professional Card (Art 9)

The average processing time for a Belgium Professional Card (Art 9)  is 10-45 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Professional Card (Art 9) Fee

The Visa fee for the Belgium National (D type) visa is 180 EUR. Visa fee is waived for people falling into one of the following categories:

• Spouse/partner and children (under the age of 21) of EU and Swiss citizens
• Students in the programs of Erasmus Mundus, Lotus, and Tempus
• Students with a scholarship from the Belgian State (Federal State or Regional Authorities) (like DGCD, VLIR, etc.); from Belgian Universities and Belgian High Schools and from European Commission or European Institutions
• Researchers who have a scholarship from a Belgian University (including researchers who have signed a “gastovereenkomst – convention d’accueil”).

Starting from 1 March 2017, a new administrative fee must be paid before the submission of some long stay visas for Belgium. This fee must be paid to the Immigration office, Belgium, by the applicant, or by a third party, which can be in Belgium (family member, employer, sponsor). The proof of payment must be provided together with the visa application. Some applicants do not have to pay this fee.

The administrative fee must be paid to Immigration Office, Belgium in euro by bank transfer, directly to the following bank account:

Bank:

BPOST N.V., Muntcentrum, 1000 Brussel

Beneficiary:

FOD Binnenlandse Zaken, Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken, Antwerpse Steenweg 59B, 1000 Brussel

Account information:

IBAN: BE57 6792 0060 9235

BIC: PCHQBEBB

Reference:

The reference must be according to the following structure:

• Surname & First name of the applicant (as mentioned in the passport)
• Nationality
• Date of birth: day (dd) – month (MM) – Year (YYYY)
• Purpose (Article of the law of 15.12.1980).

Therefore: Surname_Given name_Nationality_Date of Birth (DD.MM.YYYY) _Article58_Law15.12.1980.

Example: YANG_CHUAN_PAKISTANI_01.02.1930_Article58_Law 15.12.1980

Fee Waivers

The administrative fee is not payable if the applicant:

• Is aged under 18;
• Is a citizen of the European Union or of the European Economic Area applying for a registration certificate, or a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a citizen of the European Union or the European Economic Area applying for a residence permit OR a family member of a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a Belgian citizen who exercises or who has exercised his/her right of free movement and are applying for a residence permit, i.e., a family member of a Belgian citizen who is returning or has returned to Belgium after residing legally for more than 3 months in another member state of the European Union. However, in order to be exempted from payment of the fee, you must have been part of the household of this Belgian citizen in the other member state of the European Union (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying for asylum or subsidiary protection;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the spouse or partner of a foreigner to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the father or mother of a foreigner who is aged under 18 and to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium for medical reasons (article 9ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Submits a  formulaire-type (.pdf) - Standard form (Eng) (.pdf) confirming that he receives a scholarship or fellowship from an authority or institution indicated in article 1er/1 of the royal decree of 08/10/1981 and are applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study and/or carry out research;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the single handicapped child aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen or of a foreigner authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F, or F+) or temporarily (card A or H). However, in order to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to submit a certificate issued by a doctor accredited by a Belgian embassy or consulate, indicating that you are unable to support yourself because of your handicap (articles 10, 10bis or 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a beneficiary or family member of a beneficiary of the EEC-Turkey association agreement, signed on 12/09/1963 (=, a Turkish citizen who comes to work in Belgium).

Fee Payable

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 63 € when:

• He is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long term resident status in another member state of the European Union (article 61/7, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the family member of a foreigner authorized to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long-term resident status in another member state of the European Union. However, to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, the applicant must have been part of the long-term resident's household in this member state (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980).

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 207 € when:

• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who is authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F or F+) (article 10, the law of 15/12/1980);
• he is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who has a temporary residence in Belgium (card A or H) (article 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse, partner, or non-handicapped descendent aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen who does not or has not exercised their right to free movement (Cf. definition in Exemptions) (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980); 
• He is applying for residence as the father or mother of a Belgian child aged under 18 (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study in a higher education institution that is organized, recognized, or subsidized by the public authorities (article 58, the law of 15.12.1980);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative charge of 207 €;
• His right of residence is recognized by an international treaty, law, or royal decree (article 10, §1,1°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He meets the legal requirements to re-acquire Belgian nationality (article 10, §1, 2°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• She lost Belgian nationality on marriage or because her husband acquired a foreign nationality (article 10, §1,3°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium with a valid registration certificate issued within the framework of a family reunion procedure and is requesting a return visa.

Unless the applicant exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to pay 363 € when:

• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to carry out professional activities, study in a private educational institution, carry out research, or for humanitarian reasons, etc. (articles 9, 9bis, 61/11 and 61/27, the law of 15/12/1980 - article 25/2, Royal Decree of 08/10/1981);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative fee of 363 €;
• He is applying for authorization to return to Belgium after an absence of more than one year (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980 & Royal Decree of 07/08/1995);
• He is applying to re-acquire long-term resident status after a long absence (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium and wishes to return, but his residence permit (card A, B, C, D, or H) is no longer valid (return visa).

Where to Apply for Belgium Professional Card (Art 9)?

You will apply for the Belgium Professional Card (Art 9) in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Students Visa Subsidized Institute Art. 58

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa (type D), allowing them to stay in the territory of the Kingdom of Belgium for over 90 days. This visa applies to those who are admitted to the state college or state university in Belgium. If the purpose of the travel is an unpaid internship, the original unpaid internship acceptance document from the postgraduate educational institution in Belgium is required.

Required Documents for Belgium Students Visa Subsidized Institute Art. 58

1. Application Form

• Two application forms fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant (printed from VisaOnWeb)

2. Photo

• Three passport photos not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay or in case of multiple journeys, 
• The date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copies of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Contribution Fees

• The applicant must provide proof of payment of the administrative fee at the submission of his/her visa application. If this is not the case, the visa application is not admissible.

8. Medical Certificate

• A medical certificate attesting that you are not carrying any of the diseases which might endanger public health.
• This certificate must be no older than 6 months from the date of issuance.
• The specific form must be signed and stamped by one of the Embassy’s accredited doctors.

9. Non-criminal Record Certificate (if you are above 21)

• A legalized certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or offenses under common law, together with a translation. This certificate must be no older than 3 months from the date of issuance.
• In case you reside in a foreign country the months before applying, you should moreover submit a certificate issued by the relevant authorities of that foreign country legalized by the Belgian embassy abroad or with an apostil.

10. Admission or Enrolment Letter

• A certificate of enrolment from a Belgian university or institute of higher education, organized, recognized, or subsidized by the Belgian public authorities.
• This certificate is mandatory even in case you intend to take a language course prior to starting your studies. For the latter course, a certificate of enrolment is also to be submitted.

11. Proof of Financial Support

• Proof of the scholarship you have been or will be granted or
• Financial Certificate (attestation) of a student account in Belgium

12. Proof of Financial Support in the Case of Guarantor

    If the guarantor is an employee:

• Guarantors must come to the Embassy to sign Annex 32 in front of the visa officer.
• Copy of Passport and residence permit
• Certificate of employment/proof of professional activity mentioning the full address and contacts of the company, the designation, date of employment, and salary. The letter must have an original signature (the name and position of the countersigning officer) and a stamp.
• Personal bank statements from the last 6 months showing regular income (salaries, pension, etc.). Credit card statements are not accepted
• A proof of the guarantor’s family composition.

    If the guarantor is an owner or partner in a company:

• Guarantors must come to the Embassy to sign Annex 32 in front of the visa officer.
• Copy of Passport and residence permit
• Copy of the commercial license
• Personal bank statements from the last 6 months showing regular income
• A proof of the guarantor’s family composition.
• The guarantor could submit the bank statements of the company of the last 6 months with a letter from the bank proving he is a signatory on this bank account.

    If the guarantor is resident in Belgium:

• The document Annex 32 should be obtained and certified by the guarantor’s municipality in Belgium
• Registration certificate issued by the municipality in Belgium
• A copy of the guarantor’s identity card/passport
• Proof of the solvency of the guarantor (bank account statement/salary sheet for employees/tax paper for independents).
• Family composition

    If the guarantor is residing in a foreign country:

• The guarantor is required to present himself at the Embassy/Consulate of Belgium in his country to sign Annex 32 in front of the visa officer and have his signature legalized.
• A copy of the guarantor’s identity card/passport
• Personal bank statements for the last 6 months showing regular income (salaries, pension, etc.). Credit card statements are not accepted.

13. Proof that the Applicant has Access to Higher Education or Preparatory for Higher Education

• A certificate of registration as a regular student in higher education, issued by an educational institution organized, recognized or subsidized by the authorities public, or (b) if you follow a reduced schedule education, proof that this education will be your main activity and the preparation or the complement of a full-service education, or (c) if you follow a preparatory year for the 'higher education, proof of the preparatory character for the envisaged higher studies of your training.
• Proof that you meet the conditions for access to higher education your diplomas and transcripts, a certificate of consideration of your request for diploma equivalence, or the decision or dispatch of 'equivalence.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy

Processing Time for Belgium Students Visa Subsidized Institute Art. 58

The average processing time for a Belgium Students Visa Subsidized Institute Art. 58 is 10-45 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Students Visa Subsidized Institute Art. 58 Fee

The Visa fee for the Belgium National (D type) visa is 180 EUR. Visa fee is waived for people falling into one of the following categories:

• Spouse/partner and children (under the age of 21) of EU and Swiss citizens
• Students in the programs of Erasmus Mundus, Lotus, and Tempus
• Students with a scholarship from the Belgian State (Federal State or Regional Authorities) (like DGCD, VLIR, etc.); from Belgian Universities and Belgian High Schools and from European Commission or European Institutions
• Researchers who have a scholarship from a Belgian University (including researchers who have signed a “gastovereenkomst – convention d’accueil”).

Starting from 1 March 2017 a new administrative fee must be paid before the submission of some long stay visas for Belgium. This fee must be paid to the Immigration office, Belgium by the applicant, or by a third party that can be in Belgium (family member, employer, sponsor). The proof of payment must be provided together with the visa application. Some applicants do not have to pay this fee.

The administrative fee must be paid to Immigration Office, Belgium in euro by bank transfer, directly to the following bank account:

Bank:

BPOST N.V., Muntcentrum, 1000 Brussel

Beneficiary:

FOD Binnenlandse Zaken, Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken, Antwerpse Steenweg 59B, 1000 Brussel

Account information:

IBAN: BE57 6792 0060 9235

BIC: PCHQBEBB

Reference:

The reference must be according to the following structure:

• Surname & First name of the applicant (as mentioned in the passport)
• Nationality
• Date of birth: day (dd) – month (MM) – Year (YYYY)
• Purpose (Article of the law of 15.12.1980).

Therefore: Surname_Given name_Nationality_Date of Birth (DD.MM.YYYY) _Article58_Law15.12.1980.

Example: YANG_CHUAN_PAKISTANI_01.02.1930_Article58_Law 15.12.1980

Fee Waivers

The administrative fee is not payable if the applicant:

• Is aged under 18; 
• Is a citizen of the European Union or of the European Economic Area applying for a registration certificate, or a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a citizen of the European Union or the European Economic Area applying for a residence permit OR a family member of a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a Belgian citizen who exercises or who has exercised his/her right of free movement, and are applying for a residence permit, i.e. a family member of a Belgian citizen who is returning or has returned to Belgium after residing legally for more than 3 months in another member state of the European Union. However, in order to be exempted from payment of the fee, you must have been part of the household of this Belgian citizen in the other member state of the European Union (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying for asylum or subsidiary protection;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the spouse or partner of a foreigner to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the father or mother of a foreigner who is aged under 18 and to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium for medical reasons (article 9ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• submits a  formulaire-type (.pdf) - Standard form (Eng) (.pdf) confirming that he receives a scholarship or fellowship from an authority or institution indicated in article 1er/1 of the royal decree of 08/10/1981 and are applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study and/or carry out research;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the single handicapped child aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen or of a foreigner authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F, or F+) or temporarily (card A or H). However, in order to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to submit a certificate issued by a doctor accredited by a Belgian embassy or consulate, indicating that you are unable to support yourself because of your handicap (articles 10, 10bis, or 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a beneficiary or family member of a beneficiary of the EEC-Turkey association agreement, signed on 12/09/1963 (= a Turkish citizen who comes to work in Belgium).

Fee Payable

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 63 € when:

• He is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long term resident status in another member state of the European Union (article 61/7, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the family member of a foreigner authorized to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long-term resident status in another member state of the European Union. However, to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, the applicant must have been part of the long-term resident's household in this member state (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980).

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 207 € when:

• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who is authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F or F+) (article 10, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who has a temporary residence in Belgium (card A or H) (article 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse, partner, or non-handicapped descendent aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen who does not or has not exercised their right to free movement (Cf. definition in Exemptions) (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980); 
• He is applying for residence as the father or mother of a Belgian child aged under 18 (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study in a higher education institution that is organized, recognized, or subsidized by the public authorities (article 58, the law of 15.12.1980);
• He is applying for a change in status and this new status is subjected to an administrative charge of 207 €;
• His right of residence is recognized by an international treaty, law, or royal decree (article 10, §1,1°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He meets the legal requirements to re-acquire Belgian nationality (article 10, §1, 2°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• She lost Belgian nationality on marriage or because her husband acquired a foreign nationality (article 10, §1,3°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium with a valid registration certificate issued within the framework of a family reunion procedure and is requesting a return visa.

Unless the applicant exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to pay 363 € when:

• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to carry out professional activities, study in a private educational institution, carry out research, or for humanitarian reasons, etc. (articles 9, 9bis, 61/11 and 61/27, the law of 15/12/1980 - article 25/2, Royal Decree of 08/10/1981);
• He is applying for a change in status and this new status is subjected to an administrative fee of 363 €;
• He is applying for authorization to return to Belgium after an absence of more than one year (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980 & Royal Decree of 07/08/1995);
• He is applying to re-acquire long-term resident status after a long absence (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium and wishes to return, but his residence permit (card A, B, C, D, or H) is no longer valid (return visa).

Where to Apply for Belgium Students Visa Subsidized Institute Art. 58?

You will apply for the Belgium Students Visa Subsidized Institute Art. 58 in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Student Visa Private Institute Art. 9

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa (type D), allowing them to stay in the territory of the Kingdom of Belgium for over 90 days. This visa applies to those who are admitted to a private college or private university in Belgium.

Required Documents for Belgium Student Visa Private Institute Art. 9

1. Application Form

• Two application forms fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant (printed from VisaOnWeb)

2. Photo

• Three passport photos not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay or in case of multiple journeys, 
• The date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copies of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Contribution Fees

• The applicant must provide proof of payment of the administrative fee at the submission of his/her visa application. If this is not the case, the visa application is not admissible.

8. Medical Certificate

• A medical certificate attesting that you are not carrying any of the diseases which might endanger public health.
• This certificate must be no older than 6 months from the date of issuance.
• The specific form must be signed and stamped by one of the Embassy’s accredited doctors.

9. Non-criminal Record Certificate (if you are above 21)

• A legalized certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or offenses under common law, together with a translation. This certificate must be no older than 3 months from the date of issuance.
• In case you reside in a foreign country the months before applying, you should moreover submit a certificate issued by the relevant authorities of that foreign country legalized by the Belgian embassy abroad or with an apostil.

10. Admission or Enrolment Letter

• A certificate of enrolment from a Belgian university or institute of higher education, organized, recognized, or subsidized by the Belgian public authorities.
• This certificate is mandatory even in case you intend to take a language course prior to starting your studies. For the latter course, a certificate of enrolment is also to be submitted.

11. Proof of Financial Support

• Proof of the scholarship you have been or will be granted
• Financial Certificate (attestation) of a student account in Belgium

12. Proof of Financial Support in the Case of Guarantor

    If the guarantor is an employee:

• Guarantors must come to the Embassy to sign Annex 32 in front of the visa officer.
• Copy of Passport and residence permit
• Certificate of employment/proof of professional activity mentioning the full address and contacts of the company, the designation, date of employment, and salary. The letter must have an original signature (the name and position of the countersigning officer) and a stamp.
• Personal bank statements from the last 6 months showing regular income (salaries, pension, etc.). Credit card statements are not accepted
• A proof of the guarantor’s family composition.

    If the guarantor is an owner or partner in a company:

• Guarantors must come to the Embassy to sign Annex 32 in front of the visa officer.
• Copy of Passport and residence permit
• Copy of the commercial license
• Personal bank statements from the last 6 months showing regular income
• A proof of the guarantor’s family composition.
• The guarantor could submit the bank statements of the company of the last 6 months with a letter from the bank proving he is a signatory on this bank account.

    If the guarantor is resident in Belgium:

• The document Annex 32 should be obtained and certified by the guarantor’s municipality in Belgium
• Registration certificate issued by the municipality in Belgium
• A copy of the guarantor’s identity card/passport
• Proof of the solvency of the guarantor (bank account statement/salary sheet for employees/tax paper for independents).
• Family composition

    If the guarantor is residing in a foreign country:

• The guarantor is required to present himself at the Embassy/Consulate of Belgium in his country to sign Annex 32 in front of the visa officer and have his signature legalized.
• A copy of the guarantor’s identity card/passport
• Personal bank statements for the last 6 months showing regular income (salaries, pension, etc.). Credit card statements are not accepted.

13. Proof that the Applicant has Access to Higher Education or Preparatory for Higher Education

• Documents that establish your status as a regular student and your ability to follow higher education.
• A motivation letter explaining why you chose this study
• Documentation including a brief description of the courses organized by the establishment which issued the registration certificate and specifying the specificity of these courses compared to similar courses organized in the country of origin.
• Documents demonstrating that you have sufficient knowledge of the language in which the courses will be given, that is to say, a certificate from the secondary school which issued the diploma or certificate of completion, stating the number of hours of lessons taken per week in this language and the results obtained or proof of successful completion of computerized internationally recognized language proficiency tests (e.g., TOEFL for knowledge of English), or a certificate issued at the end of additional training in this language.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Student Visa Private Institute Art. 9

The average processing time for a Belgium Student Visa Private Institute Art. 9 is 10-45 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Student Visa Private Institute Art. 9 Fee

The Visa fee for the Belgium National (D type) visa is 180 EUR. Visa fee is waived for people falling into one of the following categories:

• Spouse/partner and children (under the age of 21) of EU and Swiss citizens
• Students in the programs of Erasmus Mundus, Lotus, and Tempus
• Students with a scholarship from the Belgian State (Federal State or Regional Authorities) (like DGCD, VLIR, etc.); from Belgian Universities and Belgian High Schools and from European Commission or European Institutions
• Researchers who have a scholarship from a Belgian University (including researchers who have signed a “gastovereenkomst – convention d’accueil”).

Starting from 1 March 2017, a new administrative fee must be paid before the submission of some long stay visas for Belgium. This fee must be paid to the Immigration office, Belgium, by the applicant, or by a third party, which can be in Belgium (family member, employer, sponsor). The proof of payment must be provided together with the visa application. Some applicants do not have to pay this fee.

The administrative fee must be paid to Immigration Office, Belgium in euro by bank transfer, directly to the following bank account:

Bank:

BPOST N.V., Muntcentrum, 1000 Brussel

Beneficiary:

FOD Binnenlandse Zaken, Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken, Antwerpse Steenweg 59B, 1000 Brussel

Account information:

IBAN: BE57 6792 0060 9235

BIC: PCHQBEBB

Reference:

The reference must be according to the following structure:

• Surname & First name of the applicant (as mentioned in the passport)
• Nationality
• Date of birth: day (dd) – month (MM) – year (YYYY)
• Purpose (Article of the law of 15.12.1980).

Therefore: Surname_Given name_Nationality_Date of Birth (DD.MM.YYYY) _Article58_Law15.12.1980.

Example: YANG_CHUAN_PAKISTANI_01.02.1930_Article58_Law 15.12.1980

Fee Waivers

The administrative fee is not payable if the applicant:

• Is aged under 18;
• Is a citizen of the European Union or of the European Economic Area applying for a registration certificate, or a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a citizen of the European Union or the European Economic Area applying for a residence permit OR a family member of a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a Belgian citizen who exercises or who has exercised his/her right of free movement and are applying for a residence permit, i.e., a family member of a Belgian citizen who is returning or has returned to Belgium after residing legally for more than 3 months in another member state of the European Union. However, in order to be exempted from payment of the fee, you must have been part of the household of this Belgian citizen in the other member state of the European Union (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying for asylum or subsidiary protection;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the spouse or partner of a foreigner to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the father or mother of a foreigner who is aged under 18 and to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium for medical reasons (article 9ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Submits a  formulaire-type (.pdf) - Standard form (Eng) (.pdf) confirming that he receives a scholarship or fellowship from an authority or institution indicated in article 1er/1 of the royal decree of 08/10/1981 and are applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study and/or carry out research;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the single handicapped child aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen or of a foreigner authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F, or F+) or temporarily (card A or H). However, in order to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to submit a certificate issued by a doctor accredited by a Belgian embassy or consulate, indicating that you are unable to support yourself because of your handicap (articles 10, 10bis, or 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a beneficiary or family member of a beneficiary of the EEC-Turkey association agreement, signed on 12/09/1963 (=, a Turkish citizen who comes to work in Belgium).

Fee Payable

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 63 € when:

• He is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long term resident status in another member state of the European Union (article 61/7, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the family member of a foreigner authorized to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long-term resident status in another member state of the European Union. However, to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, the applicant must have been part of the long-term resident's household in this member state (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980).

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 207 € when:

• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who is authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F or F+) (article 10, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who has a temporary residence in Belgium (card A or H) (article 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse, partner, or non-handicapped descendent aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen who does not or has not exercised their right to free movement (Cf. definition in Exemptions) (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980); 
• He is applying for residence as the father or mother of a Belgian child aged under 18 (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study in a higher education institution that is organized, recognized, or subsidized by the public authorities (article 58, the law of 15.12.1980);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative charge of 207 €;
• His right of residence is recognized by an international treaty, law, or royal decree (article 10, §1,1°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He meets the legal requirements to re-acquire Belgian nationality (article 10, §1, 2°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• She lost Belgian nationality on marriage or because her husband acquired a foreign nationality (article 10, §1,3°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium with a valid registration certificate issued within the framework of a family reunion procedure and is requesting a return visa.

Unless the applicant exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to pay 363 € when:

• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to carry out professional activities, study in a private educational institution, carry out research, or for humanitarian reasons, etc. (articles 9, 9bis, 61/11 and 61/27, the law of 15/12/1980 - article 25/2, Royal Decree of 08/10/1981);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative fee of 363 €;
• He is applying for authorization to return to Belgium after an absence of more than one year (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980 & Royal Decree of 07/08/1995);
• He is applying to re-acquire long-term resident status after a long absence (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium and wishes to return, but his residence permit (card A, B, C, D, or H) is no longer valid (return visa).

Where to Apply for Belgium Student Visa Private Institute Art. 9?

You will apply for the Belgium Student Visa Private Institute Art. 9 in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Family Reunion with Non-Eu Residents (Art. 10 and Art. 10bis)

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa (type D), allowing them to stay on the territory of the Kingdom of Belgium for over 90 days. This visa applies to family members of non-EU temporary Belgium residents and wishing to obtain a permit for long-term residence in Belgium.

Family member means:

• The spouse;
• Their children under 18 years old;
• Children of the spouse under 18 years old.

Required Documents for Belgium Family Reunion with Non-Eu residents Art. 10 and Art. 10bis

1. Application Form

• Three application forms fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant (printed from VisaOnWeb)
• For children under 18 years, the application form should be signed by a person with parental authority or by a legal guardian

2. Photo

• Three passport photos not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay or
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copies of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Contribution Fees

• The applicant must provide proof of payment of the administrative fee at the submission of his/her visa application. If this is not the case, the visa application is not admissible.

8. Medical Certificate

• A medical certificate attesting that you are not carrying any of the diseases which might endanger public health.
• This certificate must be no older than 6 months from the date of issuance.
• The specific form must be signed and stamped by one of the Embassy’s accredited doctors.

9. Non-criminal Record Certificate

• A legalized certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or offenses under common law, together with a translation. This certificate must be no older than 3 months from the date of issuance.
• In case you reside in a foreign country the months before applying, you should moreover submit a certificate issued by the relevant authorities of that foreign country legalized by the Belgian embassy abroad or with an apostil.

10. Proof of Relationship

• Copy of the ID Card/residence permit and passport of the person to be joined in Belgium.

      For spouse:

• The original marriage certificate, along with its translation (If necessary) in the notarized and legalized form.
• A birth certificate mentioning the name of both parents along with its translation (If necessary) in the notarized and legalized form.
• In case of divorce or widowhood: a notarized and legalized certificate of divorce/death of a spouse.

      For children under 18:

• A birth certificate mentioning the name of both parents along with its translation (If necessary) in the notarized and legalized form.
• In case the parents are divorced: a true certified, notarized, and legalized copy of the divorce decision mentioning to whom of the parents the full guardianship was entrusted, together with a notarized and legalized authorization from the parent, stating that the child can permanently leave with a copy of the parent ID.
• If traveling alone or without one of the parents: a legalized parental authorization with a copy of the parent(s) ID.
• In case the child has adopted: a notarized and legalized adoption certificate.
• In case a parent was deceased: a notarized and legalized death certificate of the deceased parent.

11. Proof of Sufficient Accommodation

• Proof that the party being joined has sufficient accommodation: This evidence can be done either by a copy of the property’s title assigned to his principal residence housing or by a copy of a registered lease contract concerning housing assigned to his principal residence.

12. Solvency of the Person to be Joined

• Proof that the person being joined has stable, regular, and sufficient means of subsistence during the last 12 months to meet his own needs and those of the members of his family and avoid them becoming a burden on the public authorities.

13. Proof of Mutual Insurance

• Proof that the person to be joined is affiliated to a Mutual Health Insurance Company (Mutualiteit / Mutualité) covering the risks for himself/herself.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Family Reunion with Non-Eu residents Art. 10 and Art. 10bis

The average processing time for a Belgium Family Reunion with Non-Eu residents Art. 10 and Art. 10bis is 10-45 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Family Reunion with Non-Eu residents Art. 10 and Art. 10bis Fee

The Visa fee for the Belgium National (D type) visa is 180 EUR. Visa fee is waived for people falling into one of the following categories:

• Spouse/partner and children (under the age of 21) of EU and Swiss citizens
• Students in the programs of Erasmus Mundus, Lotus, and Tempus
• Students with a scholarship from the Belgian State (Federal State or Regional Authorities) (like DGCD, VLIR, etc.); from Belgian Universities and Belgian High Schools and from European Commission or European Institutions
• Researchers who have a scholarship from a Belgian University (including researchers who have signed a “gastovereenkomst – convention d’accueil”).

Starting from 1 March 2017, a new administrative fee must be paid before the submission of some long stay visas for Belgium. This fee must be paid to the Immigration office, Belgium, by the applicant, or by a third party which can be in Belgium (family member, employer, sponsor). The proof of payment must be provided together with the visa application. Some applicants do not have to pay this fee.

The administrative fee must be paid to Immigration Office, Belgium in euro by bank transfer, directly to the following bank account:

Bank:

BPOST N.V., Muntcentrum, 1000 Brussel

Beneficiary:

FOD Binnenlandse Zaken, Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken, Antwerpse Steenweg 59B, 1000 Brussel

Account information:

IBAN: BE57 6792 0060 9235

BIC: PCHQBEBB

Reference:

The reference must be according to the following structure:

• Surname & First name of the applicant (as mentioned in the passport)
• Nationality
• Date of birth: day (dd) – month (MM) – year (YYYY)
• Purpose (Article of the law of 15.12.1980).

Therefore: Surname_Given name_Nationality_Date of Birth (DD.MM.YYYY) _Article58_Law15.12.1980.

Example: YANG_CHUAN_PAKISTANI_01.02.1930_Article58_Law 15.12.1980

Fee Waivers

The administrative fee is not payable if the applicant:

• Is aged under 18;
• Is a citizen of the European Union or of the European Economic Area applying for a registration certificate, or a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a citizen of the European Union or the European Economic Area applying for a residence permit OR a family member of a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a Belgian citizen who exercises or who has exercised his/her right of free movement and are applying for a residence permit, i.e., a family member of a Belgian citizen who is returning or has returned to Belgium after residing legally for more than 3 months in another member state of the European Union. However, in order to be exempted from payment of the fee, you must have been part of the household of this Belgian citizen in the other member state of the European Union (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying for asylum or subsidiary protection;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the spouse or partner of a foreigner to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the father or mother of a foreigner who is aged under 18 and to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium for medical reasons (article 9ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Submits a  formulaire-type (.pdf) - Standard form (Eng) (.pdf) confirming that he receives a scholarship or fellowship from an authority or institution indicated in article 1er/1 of the royal decree of 08/10/1981 and are applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study and/or carry out research;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the single handicapped child aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen or of a foreigner authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F, or F+) or temporarily (card A or H). However, in order to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to submit a certificate issued by a doctor accredited by a Belgian embassy or consulate, indicating that you are unable to support yourself because of your handicap (articles 10, 10bis or 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a beneficiary or family member of a beneficiary of the EEC-Turkey association agreement, signed on 12/09/1963 (=, a Turkish citizen who comes to work in Belgium).

Fee Payable

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 63 € when:

• He is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long term resident status in another member state of the European Union (article 61/7, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the family member of a foreigner authorized to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long-term resident status in another member state of the European Union. However, to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, the applicant must have been part of the long-term resident's household in this member state (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980).

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 207 € when:

• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who is authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F or F+) (article 10, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who has a temporary residence in Belgium (card A or H) (article 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse, partner, or non-handicapped descendent aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen who does not or has not exercised their right to free movement (Cf. definition in Exemptions) (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980); 
• He is applying for residence as the father or mother of a Belgian child aged under 18 (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study in a higher education institution that is organized, recognized, or subsidized by the public authorities (article 58, the law of 15.12.1980);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative charge of 207 €;
• His right of residence is recognized by an international treaty, law, or royal decree (article 10, §1,1°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He meets the legal requirements to re-acquire Belgian nationality (article 10, §1, 2°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• She lost Belgian nationality on marriage or because her husband acquired a foreign nationality (article 10, §1,3°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium with a valid registration certificate issued within the framework of a family reunion procedure and is requesting a return visa.

Unless the applicant exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to pay 363 € when:

• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to carry out professional activities, study in a private educational institution, carry out research, or for humanitarian reasons, etc. (articles 9, 9bis, 61/11 and 61/27, the law of 15/12/1980 - article 25/2, Royal Decree of 08/10/1981);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative fee of 363 €;
• He is applying for authorization to return to Belgium after an absence of more than one year (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980 & Royal Decree of 07/08/1995);
• He is applying to re-acquire long-term resident status after a long absence (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium and wishes to return, but his residence permit (card A, B, C, D, or H) is no longer valid (return visa).

Where to Apply for Belgium Family Reunion with Non-Eu residents Art. 10 and Art. 10bis?

You will apply for the Belgium Family Reunion with Non-Eu residents Art. 10 and Art. 10bis in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Family Reunion with a Belgian Spouse (Art. 40er)

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa (type D), allowing them to stay on the territory of the Kingdom of Belgium for over 90 days. This visa applies to family members of Belgium nationals and wishing to obtain a permit for long-term residence in Belgium.

Family member means:

• The spouse;
• Their children under 18 years old;
• Children of the spouse under 18 years old.

Required Documents for Belgium Family Reunion with A Belgian Spouse (Art. 40er)

1. Application Form

• Three application forms fully filled in, signed on both pages, and dated by the applicant (printed from VisaOnWeb)
• For children under 18 years, the application form should be signed by a person with parental authority or by a legal guardian

2. Photo

• Three passport photos not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay or
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copies of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Contribution Fees

• The applicant must provide proof of payment of the administrative fee at the submission of his/her visa application. If this is not the case, the visa application is not admissible.

8. Proof of Relationship

• Copy of the ID Card/residence permit and passport of the person to be joined in Belgium.

     For spouse:

• The original marriage certificate, along with its translation (If necessary) in the notarized and legalized form.
• A birth certificate mentioning the name of both parents along with its translation (If necessary) in the notarized and legalized form.
• In case of divorce or widowhood: a notarized and legalized certificate of divorce/death of a spouse.

     For children under 18:

• A birth certificate mentioning the name of both parents along with its translation (If necessary) in the notarized and legalized form.
• In case the parents are divorced: a true certified, notarized, and legalized, copy of the divorce decision mentioning to whom of the
• Parents, the full guardianship was entrusted, together with a notarized and legalized authorization from the parent, stating that the child can permanently leave with a copy of the parent ID.
• If traveling alone or without one of the parents: a legalized parental authorization with a copy of the parent(s) ID.
• In case the child has adopted: a notarized and legalized adoption certificate.
• In case a parent was deceased: a notarized and legalized death certificate of the deceased parent.

     For children aged 18 years and over:

• A notarized and legalized birth certificate mentioning the name of both parents.

     For children aged 21 years and over:

• A notarized and legalized birth certificate mentioning the name of both parents.
• Proof that the child is dependent on the person in Belgium.

9. Proof of Sufficient Accommodation

• Proof that the party being joined has sufficient accommodation: This evidence can be done either by a copy of the property’s title assigned to his principal residence housing or by a copy of a registered lease contract concerning housing assigned to his principal residence.

10. Solvency of the Person to be Joined

• Proof that the person being joined has stable, regular, and sufficient means of subsistence during the last 12 months to meet his own needs and those of the members of his family and avoid them becoming a burden on the public authorities.

11. Proof of Mutual Insurance

• Proof that the person to be joined is affiliated to a Mutual Health Insurance Company (Mutualiteit / Mutualité) covering the risks for himself/herself.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Family Reunion with A Belgian Spouse (Art. 40er)

The average processing time for a Belgium Family Reunion with A Belgian Spouse (Art. 40er) is 10-45 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Family Reunion with A Belgian Spouse (Art. 40er) Fee

The Visa fee for the Belgium National (D type) visa is 180 EUR. Visa fee is waived for people falling into one of the following categories:

• Spouse/partner and children (under the age of 21) of EU and Swiss citizens
• Students in the programs of Erasmus Mundus, Lotus, and Tempus
• Students with a scholarship from the Belgian State (Federal State or Regional Authorities) (like DGCD, VLIR, etc.); from Belgian Universities and Belgian High Schools and from European Commission or European Institutions
• Researchers who have a scholarship from a Belgian University (including researchers who have signed a “gastovereenkomst – convention d’accueil”).

Starting from 1 March 2017, a new administrative fee must be paid before the submission of some long stay visas for Belgium. This fee must be paid to the Immigration office, Belgium, by the applicant, or by a third party which can be in Belgium (family member, employer, sponsor). The proof of payment must be provided together with the visa application. Some applicants do not have to pay this fee.

The administrative fee must be paid to Immigration Office, Belgium in euro by bank transfer, directly to the following bank account:

Bank:

BPOST N.V., Muntcentrum, 1000 Brussel

Beneficiary:

FOD Binnenlandse Zaken, Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken, Antwerpse Steenweg 59B, 1000 Brussel

Account information:

IBAN: BE57 6792 0060 9235

BIC: PCHQBEBB

Reference:

The reference must be according to the following structure:

• Surname & First name of the applicant (as mentioned in the passport)
• Nationality
• Date of birth: day (dd) – month (MM) – year (YYYY)
• Purpose (Article of the law of 15.12.1980).

Therefore: Surname_Given name_Nationality_Date of Birth (DD.MM.YYYY) _Article58_Law15.12.1980.

Example: YANG_CHUAN_PAKISTANI_01.02.1930_Article58_Law 15.12.1980

Fee Waivers

The administrative fee is not payable if the applicant:

• Is aged under 18;
• Is a citizen of the European Union or of the European Economic Area applying for a registration certificate, or a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a citizen of the European Union or the European Economic Area applying for a residence permit OR a family member of a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a Belgian citizen who exercises or who has exercised his/her right of free movement and are applying for a residence permit, i.e., a family member of a Belgian citizen who is returning or has returned to Belgium after residing legally for more than 3 months in another member state of the European Union. However, in order to be exempted from payment of the fee, you must have been part of the household of this Belgian citizen in the other member state of the European Union (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying for asylum or subsidiary protection;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the spouse or partner of a foreigner to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the father or mother of a foreigner who is aged under 18 and to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium for medical reasons (article 9ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Submits a  formulaire-type (.pdf) - Standard form (Eng) (.pdf) confirming that he receives a scholarship or fellowship from an authority or institution indicated in article 1er/1 of the royal decree of 08/10/1981 and are applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study and/or carry out research;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the single handicapped child aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen or of a foreigner authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F, or F+) or temporarily (card A or H). However, in order to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to submit a certificate issued by a doctor accredited by a Belgian embassy or consulate, indicating that you are unable to support yourself because of your handicap (articles 10, 10bis or 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a beneficiary or family member of a beneficiary of the EEC-Turkey association agreement, signed on 12/09/1963 (= a Turkish citizen who comes to work in Belgium).

Fee Payable

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 63 € when:

• He is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long term resident status in another member state of the European Union (article 61/7, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the family member of a foreigner authorized to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long-term resident status in another member state of the European Union. However, to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, the applicant must have been part of the long-term resident's household in this member state (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980).

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 207 € when:

• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who is authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F or F+) (article 10, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who has a temporary residence in Belgium (card A or H) (article 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse, partner, or non-handicapped descendent aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen who does not or has not exercised their right to free movement (Cf. definition in Exemptions) (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980); 
• He is applying for residence as the father or mother of a Belgian child aged under 18 (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study in a higher education institution that is organized, recognized, or subsidized by the public authorities (article 58, the law of 15.12.1980);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative charge of 207 €;
• His right of residence is recognized by an international treaty, law, or royal decree (article 10, §1,1°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He meets the legal requirements to re-acquire Belgian nationality (article 10, §1, 2°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• She lost Belgian nationality on marriage or because her husband acquired a foreign nationality (article 10, §1,3°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium with a valid registration certificate issued within the framework of a family reunion procedure and is requesting a return visa.

Unless the applicant exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to pay 363 € when:

• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to carry out professional activities, study in a private educational institution, carry out research, or for humanitarian reasons, etc. (articles 9, 9bis, 61/11 and 61/27, the law of 15/12/1980 - article 25/2, Royal Decree of 08/10/1981);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative fee of 363 €;
• He is applying for authorization to return to Belgium after an absence of more than one year (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980 & Royal Decree of 07/08/1995);
• He is applying to re-acquire long-term resident status after a long absence (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium and wishes to return, but his residence permit (card A, B, C, D, or H) is no longer valid (return visa).

Where to Apply for Belgium Family Reunion with A Belgian Spouse (Art. 40er)?

You will apply for the Belgium Family Reunion with A Belgian Spouse (Art. 40er) in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Au Pair Visa

This visa is intended to allow foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa (type D), allowing them to stay in the territory of the Kingdom of Belgium for over 90 days. This visa applies for young people welcomed temporarily into a family, where he/she is lodged and fed in return for light everyday family tasks, to perfect his linguistic knowledge and increase his general culture through an improved familiarity with the country while participating in the life of the host family. A family and a young foreign national must obtain employment authorization and work permit from the competent Region after first securing authorization as per the appointed legal procedure.

Required Documents for Belgium Au Pair Visa

1. Application Form

• The application form should be fully filled in, signed (two times), and dated by the Applicant (printed from VisaOnWeb)

2. Photo

• Three passport photos not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay or in case of multiple journeys, 
• The date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copies of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Contribution Fees

• The applicant must provide proof of payment of the administrative fee at the submission of his/her visa application. If this is not the case, the visa application is not admissible.

8. Medical Certificate

• A medical certificate attesting that you are not carrying any of the diseases which might endanger public health.
• This certificate must be no older than 6 months from the date of issuance.
• The specific form must be signed and stamped by one of the Embassy’s accredited doctors.

9. Non-criminal Record Certificate

• A legalized certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or offenses under common law, together with a translation. This certificate must be no older than 3 months from the date of issuance.
• In case you reside in a foreign country the months before applying, you should moreover submit a certificate issued by the relevant authorities of that foreign country legalized by the Belgian embassy abroad or with an apostil.

10. Work Permit

• The young “Au pair” must obtain a work permit before beginning to work in the hosting family.
• More information can be obtained on the following websites (depending on the region where the family who will receive you lives):
  • For Wallonia: http://emploi.wallonie.be
  • For Brussels: http://www.bruxelles.irisnet.be
  • For Flanders: http://www.werk.be

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Au Pair Visa

The average processing time for a Belgium Au Pair visa is 10-45 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Au Pair Visa Fee

The Visa fee for the Belgium National (D type) visa is 180 EUR. Visa fee is waived for people falling into one of the following categories:

• Spouse/partner and children (under the age of 21) of EU and Swiss citizens
• Students in the programs of Erasmus Mundus, Lotus, and Tempus
• Students with a scholarship from the Belgian State (Federal State or Regional Authorities) (like DGCD, VLIR, etc.); from Belgian Universities and Belgian High Schools and from European Commission or European Institutions
• Researchers who have a scholarship from a Belgian University (including researchers who have signed a “gastovereenkomst – convention d’accueil”).

Starting from 1 March 2017, a new administrative fee must be paid before the submission of some long stay visas for Belgium. This fee must be paid to the Immigration office, Belgium, by the applicant, or by a third party that can be in Belgium (family member, employer, sponsor). The proof of payment must be provided together with the visa application. Some applicants do not have to pay this fee.

The administrative fee must be paid to Immigration Office, Belgium in euro by bank transfer, directly to the following bank account:

Bank:

BPOST N.V., Muntcentrum, 1000 Brussel

Beneficiary:

FOD Binnenlandse Zaken, Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken, Antwerpse Steenweg 59B, 1000 Brussel

Account information:

IBAN: BE57 6792 0060 9235

BIC: PCHQBEBB

Reference:

The reference must be according to the following structure:

• Surname & First name of the applicant (as mentioned in the passport)
• Nationality
• Date of birth: day (dd) – month (MM) – year (YYYY)
• Purpose (Article of the law of 15.12.1980).

Therefore: Surname_Given name_Nationality_Date of Birth (DD.MM.YYYY) _Article58_Law15.12.1980.

Example: YANG_CHUAN_PAKISTANI_01.02.1930_Article58_Law 15.12.1980

Fee Waivers

The administrative fee is not payable if the applicant:

• Is aged under 18;
• Is a citizen of the European Union or of the European Economic Area applying for a registration certificate, or a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a citizen of the European Union or the European Economic Area applying for a residence permit OR a family member of a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a Belgian citizen who exercises or who has exercised his/her right of free movement and are applying for a residence permit, i.e., a family member of a Belgian citizen who is returning or has returned to Belgium after residing legally for more than 3 months in another member state of the European Union. However, in order to be exempted from payment of the fee, you must have been part of the household of this Belgian citizen in the other member state of the European Union (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying for asylum or subsidiary protection;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the spouse or partner of a foreigner to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the father or mother of a foreigner who is aged under 18 and to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium for medical reasons (article 9ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Submits a  formulaire-type (.pdf) - Standard form (Eng) (.pdf) confirming that he receives a scholarship or fellowship from an authority or institution indicated in article 1er/1 of the royal decree of 08/10/1981 and are applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study and/or carry out research;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the single handicapped child aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen or of a foreigner authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F, or F+) or temporarily (card A or H). However, in order to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to submit a certificate issued by a doctor accredited by a Belgian embassy or consulate, indicating that you are unable to support yourself because of your handicap (articles 10, 10bis or 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a beneficiary or family member of a beneficiary of the EEC-Turkey association agreement, signed on 12/09/1963 (=, a Turkish citizen who comes to work in Belgium).

Fee Payable

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 63 € when:

• He is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long term resident status in another member state of the European Union (article 61/7, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the family member of a foreigner authorized to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long-term resident status in another member state of the European Union. However, to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, the applicant must have been part of the long-term resident's household in this member state (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980).

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 207 € when:

• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who is authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F or F+) (article 10, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who has a temporary residence in Belgium (card A or H) (article 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse, partner, or non-handicapped descendent aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen who does not or has not exercised their right to free movement (Cf. definition in Exemptions) (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980); 
• He is applying for residence as the father or mother of a Belgian child aged under 18 (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study in a higher education institution that is organized, recognized, or subsidized by the public authorities (article 58, the law of 15.12.1980);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative charge of 207 €;
• His right of residence is recognized by an international treaty, law, or royal decree (article 10, §1,1°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He meets the legal requirements to re-acquire Belgian nationality (article 10, §1, 2°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• She lost Belgian nationality on marriage or because her husband acquired a foreign nationality (article 10, §1,3°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium with a valid registration certificate issued within the framework of a family reunion procedure and is requesting a return visa.

Unless the applicant exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to pay 363 € when:

• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to carry out professional activities, study in a private educational institution, carry out research, or for humanitarian reasons, etc. (articles 9, 9bis, 61/11 and 61/27, the law of 15/12/1980 - article 25/2, Royal Decree of 08/10/1981);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative fee of 363 €;
• He is applying for authorization to return to Belgium after an absence of more than one year (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980 & Royal Decree of 07/08/1995);
• He is applying to re-acquire long-term resident status after a long absence (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium and wishes to return, but his residence permit (card A, B, C, D, or H) is no longer valid (return visa).

Where to Apply for Belgium Au Pair Visa?

You will apply for the Belgium Au Pair visa in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Belgium Researcher Visa

If you want to travel to Belgium for a scientific research purpose in a long-term period, you can apply for Belgium Researcher Visa. 

Required Documents for Belgium Researcher Visa

1. Application Form

• The application form should be fully filled in, signed (two times), and dated by the Applicant (printed from VisaOnWeb)

2. Photo

• Three passport photos not older than 6 months
• Size 3,5x4,5
• On the white background

3. Language Preference Form

• The applicant can choose one of the Belgian three national languages in which the application will be treated.
• If you choose to complete the application in English, you should choose “no preference”.

4. Original Passport

• The passport should be at least three months longer than the intended stay
  • In case of multiple journeys - the date on which you intend to leave for the last time.
• A copy of all pages (excluding the blank pages)
• The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, in a good shape, and have at least 2 empty pages.

5. Copies of Previous Schengen Visas

• Copies of previous Schengen visas (from the past 3 years only). Copies of entry and exit stamps to the Schengen zone must be provided
• Copies of other respective countries’ visas could be provided (UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…).

6. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents.
• The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to Belgium.

7. Contribution Fees

• The applicant must provide proof of payment of the administrative fee at the submission of his/her visa application. If this is not the case, the visa application is not admissible.

8. Medical Certificate

• A medical certificate attesting that you are not carrying any of the diseases which might endanger public health.
• This certificate must be no older than 6 months from the date of issuance.
• The specific form must be signed and stamped by one of the Embassy’s accredited doctors.

9. Non-criminal Record Certificate

• A legalized certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or offenses under common law, together with a translation. This certificate must be no older than 3 months from the date of issuance.
• In case you reside in a foreign country the months before applying, you should moreover submit a certificate issued by the relevant authorities of that foreign country legalized by the Belgian embassy abroad or with an apostil.

10. Admission or Invitation Letter

• An invitation letter from the University/the inviting organization in Belgium states the purpose of stay and the duration of the research.

11. Work Permit

• The original work permit obtained by the Belgium-based employer, or his representative, from the regional employment service, which covers the employer’s place of business (VDAB, FOREM, or ORBEM).

    The work permit is waived in the following cases:

• The researcher signs a hosting agreement
  • Attach a copy of the hosting agreement signed by the research organization and approved by the Belgian Science Policy and detailing the amount of the compensation.
• Post doctorates who:
  • Are titleholders of a Ph.D. or an equivalent qualification and
  • Are the beneficiaries of a scientific grant and
  • Are carrying out fundamental scientific research in the host university in Belgium, within the framework of international mobility in order to promote the scientific competence gained through the doctorate.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Belgium Researcher Visa

The average processing time for a Belgium Researcher visa is 10-45 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

Belgium Researcher Visa Fee

The Visa fee for the Belgium National (D type) visa is 180 EUR. Visa fee is waived for people falling into one of the following categories:

• Spouse/partner and children (under the age of 21) of EU and Swiss citizens
• Students in the programs of Erasmus Mundus, Lotus, and Tempus
• Students with a scholarship from the Belgian State (Federal State or Regional Authorities) (like DGCD, VLIR, etc.); from Belgian Universities and Belgian High Schools and from European Commission or European Institutions
• Researchers who have a scholarship from a Belgian University (including researchers who have signed a “gastovereenkomst – convention d’accueil”).

Starting from 1 March 2017, a new administrative fee must be paid before the submission of some long stay visas for Belgium. This fee must be paid to the Immigration office, Belgium, by the applicant, or by a third party that can be in Belgium (family member, employer, sponsor). The proof of payment must be provided together with the visa application. Some applicants do not have to pay this fee.

The administrative fee must be paid to Immigration Office, Belgium in euro by bank transfer, directly to the following bank account:

Bank:

BPOST N.V., Muntcentrum, 1000 Brussel

Beneficiary:

FOD Binnenlandse Zaken, Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken, Antwerpse Steenweg 59B, 1000 Brussel

Account information:

IBAN: BE57 6792 0060 9235

BIC: PCHQBEBB

Reference:

The reference must be according to the following structure:

• Surname & First name of the applicant (as mentioned in the passport)
• Nationality
• Date of birth: day (dd) – month (MM) – year (YYYY)
• Purpose (Article of the law of 15.12.1980).

Therefore: Surname_Given name_Nationality_Date of Birth (DD.MM.YYYY) _Article58_Law15.12.1980.

Example: YANG_CHUAN_PAKISTANI_01.02.1930_Article58_Law 15.12.1980

Fee Waivers

The administrative fee is not payable if the applicant:

• Is aged under 18;
• Is a citizen of the European Union or of the European Economic Area applying for a registration certificate, or a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a citizen of the European Union or the European Economic Area applying for a residence permit OR a family member of a Swiss citizen applying for a foreigner's identity card (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a family member of a Belgian citizen who exercises or who has exercised his/her right of free movement and are applying for a residence permit, i.e., a family member of a Belgian citizen who is returning or has returned to Belgium after residing legally for more than 3 months in another member state of the European Union. However, in order to be exempted from payment of the fee, you must have been part of the household of this Belgian citizen in the other member state of the European Union (article 42, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying for asylum or subsidiary protection;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the spouse or partner of a foreigner to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the father or mother of a foreigner who is aged under 18 and to whom Belgium has granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium for medical reasons (article 9ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Submits a  formulaire-type (.pdf) - Standard form (Eng) (.pdf) confirming that he receives a scholarship or fellowship from an authority or institution indicated in article 1er/1 of the royal decree of 08/10/1981 and are applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study and/or carry out research;
• Is applying to reside in Belgium as the single handicapped child aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen or of a foreigner authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F, or F+) or temporarily (card A or H). However, in order to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to submit a certificate issued by a doctor accredited by a Belgian embassy or consulate, indicating that you are unable to support yourself because of your handicap (articles 10, 10bis or 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• Is a beneficiary or family member of a beneficiary of the EEC-Turkey association agreement, signed on 12/09/1963 (=, a Turkish citizen who comes to work in Belgium).

Fee Payable

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 63 € when:

• He is applying to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long term resident status in another member state of the European Union (article 61/7, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the family member of a foreigner authorized to reside for more than 3 months in Belgium after having obtained long-term resident status in another member state of the European Union. However, to be exempted from payment of the administrative fee, the applicant must have been part of the long-term resident's household in this member state (articles 10 or 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980).

Unless the applicant is exempted from payment of the administrative fee, he needs to pay 207 € when:

• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who is authorized to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period (card B, C, D, F or F+) (article 10, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse or partner of a foreigner who has a temporary residence in Belgium (card A or H) (article 10bis, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying for residence as the spouse, partner, or non-handicapped descendent aged over 18 of a Belgian citizen who does not or has not exercised their right to free movement (Cf. definition in Exemptions) (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980); 
• He is applying for residence as the father or mother of a Belgian child aged under 18 (article 40ter, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to study in a higher education institution that is organized, recognized, or subsidized by the public authorities (article 58, the law of 15.12.1980);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative charge of 207 €;
• His right of residence is recognized by an international treaty, law, or royal decree (article 10, §1,1°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He meets the legal requirements to re-acquire Belgian nationality (article 10, §1, 2°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• She lost Belgian nationality on marriage or because her husband acquired a foreign nationality (article 10, §1,3°, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium with a valid registration certificate issued within the framework of a family reunion procedure and is requesting a return visa.

Unless the applicant exempted from payment of the administrative fee, you need to pay 363 € when:

• He is applying to reside more than 3 months in Belgium in order to carry out professional activities, study in a private educational institution, carry out research, or for humanitarian reasons, etc. (articles 9, 9bis, 61/11 and 61/27, the law of 15/12/1980 - article 25/2, Royal Decree of 08/10/1981);
• He is applying for a change in status, and this new status is subjected to an administrative fee of 363 €;
• He is applying for authorization to return to Belgium after an absence of more than one year (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980 & Royal Decree of 07/08/1995);
• He is applying to re-acquire long-term resident status after a long absence (article 19, §2, the law of 15/12/1980);
• He left Belgium and wishes to return, but his residence permit (card A, B, C, D, or H) is no longer valid (return visa).

Where to Apply for Belgium Researcher Visa?

You will apply for the Belgium Researcher visa in Belgium visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.