Belgium Visa Types, Requirements, and Application
Belgium, a charming and petite nation celebrated for its enchanting medieval towns, impeccably maintained Renaissance structures, and delectable cuisine. Despite its small size, Belgium rivals larger countries in its diverse offerings. Belgium visa application process may appear daunting for first-timers, getting started is the key to navigating it effortlessly. Now, let’s dive into this article for more details!
Who needs a visa to enter Belgium?
If you plan to travel to Belgium, obtaining a Belgium visa may be necessary. However, a tourist visa is not required for Belgium if:
- You are a citizen of 🇨🇭 Switzerland and EEA countries, you will be free to travel into Belgium, the list of EEA countries includes:
- Your country has a visa agreement with the Schengen area, you can travel throughout Europe for up to 90 days, these countries include:
For those intending to study, work, or reside in Belgium for an extended period and are not from an EU/EEA country, applying for a Belgium national visa is mandatory.
Belgium visa types
Category C visa for short stay visits
- Airport transit visa: Citizens of specific countries may require a Belgium airport transit visa when changing flights in a foreign country. The necessity of this visa depends on the regulations of the country where the airport is located.
- Business visa: A business visa is a short-term visa essential for individuals or groups from third countries (not citizens of the European Economic Area or Switzerland). This visa is for those attending designated meetings, unpaid trainings, or business-related events without engaging in labor or gainful employment.
- Tourist visa: A tourist visa is designed for international tourists planning to explore the sights of Belgium. This visa can be obtained through consulates, authorized visa companies, or approved travel agencies.
- Visitor visa: If your intention is to visit a family member or a friend residing in Belgium, acquiring a Belgium visitor visa is essential. A crucial requirement for this visa is an invitation letter from the person you plan to visit.
Belgium category D visa
Belgium issues Category D visas for extended stays exceeding three months. It’s essential to note that these visas differ from permanent residence permits.
- Student visa: If planning to pursue studies at a Belgium higher education institution for more than three months, a Belgium student visa is mandatory.
- Employment visa: Individuals desiring to work in Belgium for over 90 days need to request a Belgium employment visa through their employer.
- Jobseeker visa: A Belgium job seeker visa allows one to stay and search for a job, with the possibility of applying for an employment permit upon securing employment.
- Family reunion visa: For third country citizens joining family members with permanent residence permits in Belgium, a family reunion visa is necessary for stays exceeding three months.
Belgium visa requirements
Documents required for entry to Belgium vary based on your nationality. If your country isn’t eligible for visa-free entry, ensure you have the following:
- Visa application form: Fill out, print, and sign the form.
- Language preference form: Indicate your language preference (French, German, Dutch, or English) for processing.
- Passport-sized photos: Provide two recent passport-sized photos.
- Valid passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure, issued in the last decade, with two blank pages.
- Cover letter: Clearly state your purpose of visit.
- Round-trip flight information: Provide details of your round-trip flight.
- Travel insurance: Ensure it’s valid in Belgium and the Schengen area.
- Accommodation documents: Hotel booking or accommodation proof for your stay duration.
- Proof of civil status: Submit relevant civil status documents.
- Visa sponsorship documents (if applicable): If sponsored, include supporting documents.
Besides, there are also additional documents for specific applicants:
Employed
- Employment contract.
- Company letter specifying your absence, stay duration, and return confirmation.
- Last six months’ bank statement.
- Income tax return if applicable.
- Original bank slips.
Self-employed
- Copy of business license.
- Last six months’ company bank statement.
- Income tax return if applicable.
Student
- Proof of enrollment.
- No objection certificate from the school.
- Sponsorship documents if self-funding is challenging.
How to apply for Belgium visa?
If you’re eyeing a trip to Belgium, securing that tourist visa is a key step. No need to stress, just follow these steps:
- Step#1. Contact the Belgium embassy in your country: The first step in your visa journey is to find out where you have to apply. To do so, contact the Belgium embassy in your country or visit their website.
- Step#2. Make an appointment: As soon as you know where to apply for your Belgium visa, you must contact the Belgium representation to make an appointment. You cannot apply without an appointment. Remember that the embassy/consulate may be able to schedule an appointment for you a few days to a few weeks later.
- Step#3. Fill out your visa application form: When filling out the form, make sure you read each question carefully and do not leave any fields blank. Please note that the slightest mistake can lead to your visa being refused.
- Step#4. Gather all your documents: Some of the documents needed to apply for a Belgium visa are passport, photo, travel insurance and application form. Other additional documents vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and where you are coming from.
- Step#5. Attend the visa interview: On the day of your visa interview appointment, make sure to show up on time. You will submit your visa application and attend an interview, usually about 10–15 minutes. You will have to answer questions such as your purpose of travel, where you will stay, how you will support yourself, and personal questions. Answers to all questions must be truthful. And remember, a good first impression always helps, so maintain good posture and try to appear polite and friendly but not too familiar to the interviewer.