Belgium

Welcome to Belgian Visa Portal and Policies with Travel Guidelines

Belgium, a picturesque country in Western Europe, is known for its medieval towns, Renaissance architecture, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re planning to visit for tourism, work, study, or to join family, understanding Belgium’s immigration and visa requirements is essential. This guide provides detailed information on visa types, application processes, fees, and official resources to help you plan your trip seamlessly.

Belgium, as a member of the Schengen Area, follows standardized visa policies while maintaining specific national regulations. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about Belgian visa fees, regulatory requirements, and application procedures for 2023-2024.

All fees are listed in Euros (€) and are subject to change based on Belgian government and EU regulations. Applicants should verify current fees with their local Belgian embassy or consulate before submission.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Belgium?

Belgium is part of the Schengen Area, which allows free movement across 27 European countries. Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality:

1. Visa-Free Travel: Citizens of the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and countries with visa-free agreements (e.g., the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan) can enter Belgium for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. However, starting in 2024, these travelers will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering.
2. Visa Required: Nationals of countries without visa-free agreements must apply for a Schengen visa to enter Belgium.

Types of Belgian Visas

Belgium offers several visa categories depending on the purpose of your visit:

1. Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C): For tourism, business, or family visits lasting up to 90 days.
2. Long-Stay Visa (Type D): For stays exceeding 90 days, such as for work, study, or family reunification.
3. Airport Transit Visa (Type A): Required for certain nationalities transiting through Belgian airports.
4. National Visas: For specific purposes like employment, study, or joining family members in Belgium.

How to Apply for a Belgian Visa

Step 1: Determine the Correct Visa Type

Identify the visa category that matches your purpose of travel. For example, if you’re visiting for tourism, apply for a Schengen short-stay visa.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

The documents vary depending on the visa type but generally include:

• Completed visa application form (available online).
• Valid passport (with at least two blank pages and validity for three months beyond your stay).
• Two recent passport-sized photos.
• Travel insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies.
• Proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel booking or invitation letter).
• Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements or sponsorship letter).
• Flight itinerary or proof of onward travel.
• Additional documents specific to your visa type (e.g., employment contract, admission letter from a Belgian university).

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment

Book an appointment at the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country. Some countries may require you to apply through a visa application center like VFS Global.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Attend your appointment, submit your documents, and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo). Pay the applicable visa fee.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Visa processing typically takes 15 calendar days but can extend to 30-60 days for long-stay visas. Track your application status online.

Visa Fees

The visa fees for Belgium are as follows:

• Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C): €80 for adults, €40 for children aged 6-12, and free for children under 6.
• Long-Stay Visa (Type D): Fees vary depending on the purpose of stay (e.g., €180 for work visas, €350 for family reunification).
• Airport Transit Visa (Type A): €80.

Visa Category	Purpose	Standard Fee (€)	Reduced Fee (€)
Schengen Visa (Type C)	Short-stay (up to 90 days) for tourism, business, or family visits	80	40
Airport Transit Visa (Type A)	Transiting through international zone of Belgian airports	80	40
Long-stay Visa (Type D)	Stay exceeding 90 days for work, study, or family reunification	180	90
Belgium Family Member of EU Citizen	Family members of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens	Free	Free
Student Visa (Long-stay)	For study programs longer than 90 days	180	90
Work Visa (Long-stay)	Employment or professional activities in Belgium	350*	350*

*Work visa fees may vary based on specific work permit types and employer arrangements.

Important Notice Regarding Fee Payment

Visa fees must be paid in the local currency equivalent at the current exchange rate when applying at a Belgian embassy or consulate. Payment methods vary by location but typically include bank transfer, credit card, or cash. The visa fee is separate from any service charges applied by visa application centers.

Note: Fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied.

ETIAS Requirements (Starting 2024)

From 2024, visa-exempt travelers must apply for an ETIAS authorization before entering Belgium or any other Schengen country. The process is simple:

1. Complete the online application form.
2. Pay the €7 fee.
3. Receive approval via email (usually within minutes).

ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Travel Tips for Belgium

1. Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
2. Currency: The official currency is the Euro (€).
3. Language: Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
4. Transportation: Belgium has an efficient public transport system, including trains, trams, and buses. Consider getting a rail pass for unlimited travel.
5. Must-See Attractions: Visit the Grand Place in Brussels, the medieval city of Bruges, and the Ardennes region for stunning landscapes.

Belgium is a captivating destination with something for everyone. By understanding the visa requirements and preparing your application carefully, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of Bruges or indulging in Belgian waffles and chocolates, your trip to Belgium promises to be unforgettable. Safe travels!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Quick Summary

Belgium is a member of the Schengen Area. Travelers planning short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period usually require a Belgium Schengen Visa (Type C). Applications are submitted through Belgian embassies or authorized visa centers such as VFS Global. Biometric data is mandatory for most applicants, and processing typically takes around 15 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of visas are available for Belgium?+

• Schengen Visa (Type C): Tourism, business, family visit, short study, medical treatment (up to 90 days).
• National Visa (Type D): Long-term stays for work, study, or family reunification.
• Airport Transit Visa (Type A): For transit through Belgian airports.

What documents are required for a Belgium Schengen visa?+

• Valid passport (minimum 3 months validity beyond return date)
• Recent passport-size photographs
• Completed Schengen visa application form
• Confirmed flight itinerary
• Hotel reservation or invitation letter
• Travel insurance (minimum coverage €30,000)
• Bank statements (last 3–6 months)
• Proof of employment, business, or studies

How much does a Belgium visa cost?+

• €80 for adults
• €40 for children aged 6–12
• Free for children under 6

Additional VFS service charges may apply.

How long does Belgium visa processing take?+

• 15 calendar days (standard)
• Up to 30–45 days if additional verification is required

Is an appointment required for Belgium visa application?+

Yes. Applicants must book an appointment through:

• VFS Global Belgium Visa Center
• Belgian Embassy or Consulate

Is biometric data mandatory for Belgium visa?+

Yes. Fingerprints and a digital photograph are required and stored in the Visa Information System (VIS) for five years.

How long can I stay in Belgium with a Schengen visa?+

You may stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries.

Can I visit other Schengen countries with a Belgium visa?+

Yes. A Belgium-issued Schengen visa allows travel to all Schengen member states, provided Belgium is your main destination.

Can a Belgium Schengen visa be extended?+

Visa extensions are only granted in exceptional cases such as medical emergencies, humanitarian reasons, or force majeure.

What are common reasons for Belgium visa refusal?+

• Insufficient financial evidence
• Incomplete or incorrect documents
• Unclear travel purpose
• Lack of strong ties to home country
• Invalid travel insurance

Can I work in Belgium on a Schengen visa?+

No. Employment is not allowed on a Schengen visa. You must apply for a Belgium National Visa (Type D) along with a valid work permit.

Note: Belgium visa policies may change. Always consult official Belgian immigration sources before applying.