How to Apply for a Student Visa for Belgium (Study in Belgium)

Do you want to study in Belgium? Belgium is a popular destination for overseas students because of its top-notch universities, reasonably priced tuition, and rich cultural legacy. However, you must obtain a student visa for Belgium before you can begin packing. We have a straightforward, step-by-step tutorial to help you through the procedure, so don’t worry.

Who Requires a Student Visa for Belgium?

For Belgium, not everyone needs a student visa. You are exempt from applying for one if

• You are an EEA or EU citizen.
• You’re in a Schengen nation.
• You are from Monaco, Andorra, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States. Alternatively, you can apply for a residence permit after you’re in Belgium.

Conditions for a Student Visa to Belgium

Obtain the required paperwork to apply for a student visa to Belgium:

• Fill out the visa application form (found on VFS Global’s website or the website of the Belgian consulate).
• A passport that is valid for at least six months.
• Letter of acceptance from a reputable university in Belgium.
• A cover letter outlining your motivation for studying in Belgium.
• Evidence of fluency in either French or English, depending on the course.
• Certificate of clean criminal history.
• Certified copies of prior academic records.
• A couple of recent passport-size pictures.
• Belgium accepts health insurance.
• Evidence of financial resources (such as a scholarship letter or bank statement).

How Can I Apply for a Student Visa to Belgium?

To apply for your visa, take these steps:

• Acquire Admission to a University in Belgium. Obtain admission before submitting a visa application. The Belgian government must accept your university.
• Finish the Visa Application Form. Apply online for a visa or pick one up at the Belgian embassy or consulate closest to you.
• Accumulate the necessary paperwork. Make sure you have all the required documentation organized.
• Schedule a Consultation for a Visa. Make an appointment at your nation’s VFS Global office or the Belgian embassy.
• Attend the interview for a visa. Present your documentation in person, then finish the biometric registration process (digital photo and fingerprints).
• Hold off until approval. Apply well in advance because visa processing periods can vary.

Cost of a Student Visa to Belgium

The application fee for a visa is €180. Some applications, though, are exempt, such as:

• Spouses or children (less than 21) of Swiss or EU nationals.
• Israeli, Japanese, Moroccan, Turkish, and San Marino nationals.
• Recipients of scholarships (such as those offered by Lotus, Tempus, and Erasmus Mundus programs).

Permit to Reside After Arrival

Eight days after arriving in Belgium, you must register and submit an application for a residence permit at the local administration office. You can remain with this permit throughout the length of your studies.

Is It Possible to Work and Study in Belgium?

Indeed! Throughout the semester, you can work up to 20 hours per week as an international student. This is a fantastic method to support oneself financially and acquire skills.

Although studying in Belgium is a fantastic opportunity, getting a visa takes meticulous planning. Be sure to apply as soon as possible, complete all the instructions, and inquire about any developments with your embassy.