Belgium Adjusts Visa Handling Fees Worldwide
Planning a trip to Belgium this year? Whether you’re headed for a city break in Brussels, a business meeting in Antwerp, or joining family in Ghent, there’s an important update on visa costs you should be aware of before applying.
Starting 1 February 2026, the Belgian Federal Public Service (FPS) Foreign Affairs rolled out updated visa handling fees that apply across its global network of embassies and consulates. These changes reflect a routine annual review, aligning Belgium’s consular charges with inflation and recent adjustments across Europe.
📊 Revised Visa Fees Explained
Here’s a breakdown of the updated costs you can expect when applying for a Belgium visa as of February 1, 2026:
- Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)
• Adults (12 + years): €90
• Children (6–11 years): €45
• Children under 6: Free - Facilitated Visa Applicants
Nationals eligible under a Visa Facilitation Agreement (e.g., Serbia, Georgia) pay €45 for short stays. - Long-Stay Visa (Type D)
Valid for work, study, family reunification, or extended travel, now priced at approximately €180 worldwide.
These amounts are set in euros and converted to local currencies at each diplomatic post based on the prevailing exchange rate on the first working day of the month.
💡 Why the Increase Matters
At first glance, the new fee schedule might seem modest. But for frequent travelers, corporate mobility planners, and international students, even small increases can add up:
- Travel Budgets: Independent travelers should update trip budgets early to avoid surprises at the embassy or consulate.
- Corporate Mobility Costs: Employers sponsoring business travel or relocation visas may need to revise reimbursement policies to account for higher handling fees.
- Application Timing: If you prepaid an appointment fee before 1 February but submit your application later, be prepared to pay the difference, Belgian posts have made it clear that no grace period will be offered.
👨👩👧 Special Notes for Families and Children
Belgium’s updated fee structure continues to keep travel affordable for families:
- Children under 6 remain exempt from visa handling charges, a welcome relief for parents traveling with young kids.
- Children between 6–11 enjoy reduced fees, making short-stay travel easier on the budget.
✈️ Extra Costs to Keep in Mind
It’s important to note that the handling fee is just one part of the overall cost:
- Administrative contribution fees for long-stay visas are set separately by the Belgian Immigration Office and were increased in early 2026 as part of an annual indexation. These contributions cover processing costs for residency or work permits and can range significantly depending on visa type.
- Most Belgian diplomatic posts accept only electronic or card payments for visa fees. Cash payments are often not permitted.
Belgium Visa Fee Calculator
🧳 Tips Before You Apply
✅ Double-check fee tables on the Belgian embassy or consulate website in your country before booking your appointment.
✅ Budget for both the handling fee and any separate administrative charges to avoid delays or application issues.
✅ Plan ahead if you’re applying during peak travel seasons, appointments can fill up quickly.
📌 In Short
Belgium’s updated visa handling fees, effective from 1 February 2026, increase short- and long-stay costs modestly but universally across all posts. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business or study, factoring these new rates into your preparation will help ensure a smooth visa application and prevent unexpected expenses.