Visa Process Guide for Belgium

Belgium Visa Process

Visa Types

Belgium offers various types of visas, depending on the purpose of the visit:

• Short-stay Schengen Visa (C-Visa): Valid for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Suitable for tourism, business, and family visits.
• Long-stay Visa (D-Visa): Valid for stays exceeding 90 days. Required for students, researchers, workers, and family reunification.

Required Documents

For Short-stay Schengen Visa (C-Visa):

• Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond the intended stay
• Visa application form
• Two recent passport-size photographs
• Proof of travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation
• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation, rental agreement, etc.)
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, credit card, etc.)
• Invitation letter (if applicable)
• Proof of purpose of visit (e.g., itinerary, business letter)

For Long-stay Visa (D-Visa):

• Additional documents may be required, depending on the purpose of the stay:
  • Students: Letter of acceptance from a Belgian educational institution
  • Researchers: Research proposal and letter of support from a Belgian research institution
  • Workers: Employment contract or work permit
  • Family reunification: Marriage or birth certificate, proof of relationship

Application Procedures

For Short-stay Schengen Visa (C-Visa):

• Submit the application in person at the nearest Belgian embassy or consulate.
• Book an appointment in advance.
• Pay the visa fee.
• Provide the required documents.

For Long-stay Visa (D-Visa):

• Contact the Belgian embassy or consulate for specific instructions.
• The application process may involve additional steps, such as:
  • Interview
  • Medical examination
  • Background check

Fees

• Short-stay Schengen Visa (C-Visa): €80
• Long-stay Visa (D-Visa): Varies depending on the purpose of the stay and duration.

Timelines

• Short-stay Schengen Visa (C-Visa): Processing time typically takes 15 calendar days.
• Long-stay Visa (D-Visa): Processing time can vary significantly, depending on the complexity of the application and the type of visa.

Additional Information

• Applications should be submitted well in advance of the intended travel date.
• Incomplete or incorrect applications may be rejected.
• Visa approval is not guaranteed.
• It is recommended to check with the Belgian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information and specific requirements.