Belgium, as an EU member, primarily follows EU visa regulations. EU, EEA (Norway, Iceland, Lichtenstein), and Swiss citizens enjoy visa-free access. Additionally, Belgium has various global agreements for visa exemptions. Their stay is restricted to 90 days each 180 days and they are not permitted to work. Other nations must get a visa (pass) to enter Belgium. Belgium is a Schengen member, meaning you may use your Schengen pass to visit more than one Schengen nation.
Belgium visa categories
In Belgium, the following visa kinds are available:
C visas
You may get one of the following visa categories depending on the purpose of your stay, which is restricted to 90 days or fewer in 180 days in Belgium.
Visa for business
A Belgian business pass is essential for non-European Economic Area or Swiss nationals attending specific meetings, unpaid training, or business-related activities without employment, lasting a short duration. A business pass to Belgium requires additional documentation than other category C visas, such as evidence of travel finance, an employment certificate, and an invitation letter from a Belgian firm.
Visa for tourists
International travelers wishing to visit the country for sightseeing must get a Belgium tourist pass. A tourist pass to Belgium may be obtained via consulates, approved visa businesses, or authorized travel agents.
Visa for visitors
If you have any desire to visit a relative or a companion who lives in the country, you should get a Belgium visiting pass. To get one, you should have an invitation letter from the individual you are visiting.
D visas
Belgium category D visas are awarded for periods of more than three months and are not to be confused with permanent residence permits.
Visa for students
Students who want to study at a higher education institution in the country for longer than three months must get a student pass. When applying for a category D student pass in Belgium, you’ll need supplementary documents like proof of enrollment, language proficiency, and a motivation letter.
Visa for employment
Non-European citizens planning to work in Belgium beyond 90 days must obtain a Belgian employment pass through their employer, supported by financial means, job duration, and health coverage documentation.
Visa for job seekers
The Belgian job seeker pass allows individuals to stay in the country for job hunting, and if employment is secured during the travel pass period, an employment permit can be sought. Typically, a job seeker pass is issued to Belgian university graduates or highly skilled individuals such as senior managers or scientists.
Visa applications to Belgium
If your nationality does not qualify for visa-free entrance into Belgium, you must show the following documents:
- Filled out, printed, and signed Belgium visa application form.
- A language preference form that determines the language to process your application.
- Two photos taken during the last three months.
- A passport that is valid for at least three months before the flight date.
- If relevant, copies of prior visas.
- A cover letter explaining why you’re visiting.
- Information about round-trip plane tickets.
- A travel insurance policy that is valid in both Belgium and the Schengen region.
- Hotel reservation or lodging paperwork spanning the length of stay.
- Proof of citizenship.
- Evidence of adequate income to meet your costs during your stay.
- Documents supporting the sponsor’s visa sponsorship, if relevant.
- Supporting documents.
Certain candidates must provide extra or supporting documents:
Employed:
- Employment agreement
- Your employer’s letter indicating your leave, stay duration, and assurance of your return.
- Last six months’ bank statement
Self-Employed:
- A copy of your business license and a six-month bank statement
- Income tax return.
Student:
- Proof of enrolment and a certificate of no objection from the registered school
- Sponsorship papers if the applicant is unable to sustain himself/herself financially for the stay.
Retired:
- Provide proof of pension for the last six months.
General conditions for obtaining a Belgium visa
These are the steps to get a visa to Belgium:
Prepare ahead of time
It is important to apply for a pass to Belgium within a fair time frame. Visa applications should not be submitted to the applicable embassy in the Schengen region more than 15 days before the estimated date of arrival in the member nation.
Schedule a meeting
To visit any Belgian embassy across the globe, you must nearly always schedule an appointment via the Internet or phone. In addition to the visa price, you will be charged a service fee at the embassy.
Complete your application
Determine which Belgian consulate is the most convenient for you to visit, since you will need to submit the essential paperwork in person. The consulate will interview you to validate your reason for the journey as well as any supporting documentation.
Obtain your visa
The associated consulate or approved visa service facility will notify you of the processing period, and a Belgium pass will be attached to your passport.
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