“How to” Guide on Navigating the Belgium Student Visa Process:

Requirements and Application Steps . This visa is to further one’s education in Belgium. All international students enrolled in a Belgian university must obtain this visa. Belgium has one of the best educational systems globally with affordable tuition fees. Not too long ago, I also stated a fantastic scholarship, which was the Belgium Master Mind Scholarships 2024 – 2025.

Now, the topic at hand. All non-EU participants who are applying for the Belgium student visa will require the Belgium Long Stay Visa D Visa. Participants are also required to register their biometrics, including fingerprints and live digital photographs, in person at the visa application center before applying for Belgium student visa . I will explain further on the requirements, essential documents and how to book an appointment.

Who Is Exempt from Requiring a Belgium Student Visa?

A Belgian student visa is not necessary if:

• You are a citizen of the EU or EEA.
• You reside in one of the Schengen countries.
• You hail from the US, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Monaco, or the Republic of Andorra. Citizens of these countries can directly apply for a residence permit upon arrival in Belgium.

Requirements for a Belgium Student Visa:

• Student visa application form. (This form can be completed online via the VFS Global website or obtained from the Belgian embassy in your country of residence.)
• Passport
• Acceptance Letter (Evidence of admission)
• Supporting letter (Cover letter detailing your motivation for studying)
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Clear criminal record
• Documentation of previous educational qualifications
• Two passport-sized photographs of yourself
• Health insurance
• Proof of financial resources (unless you are on a scholarship, in which case proof of bank statements is not required).

Note: The list of required documents may vary depending on the specific requirements set by the Belgian authorities for your nationality. Therefore, it is advisable to always verify with the Embassy.

You can find the list of Belgium embassies and consulates in your country by visiting this link.

Steps to Apply for the Belgium Student Visa:

1. Secure admission at a university in Belgium: Once accepted, you become eligible to apply for a student visa.
2. Complete the visa application form.
3. Gather all necessary documents.
4. Arrange a visa appointment: If you’ve filled out the application form and have all the required documents, proceed to schedule an appointment.
5. For scheduling appointments, you may utilize VFS services if they handle Belgium visa applications in your country. The visa application form is often accessible through VFS.
6. Attend an Interview: You must personally attend the interview with all required documents, biometrics, and photographs.

Visa Cost:

The application fee for the Belgium student visa for all international applicants is 180 Euros. This fee covers the issuance of a Long Stay D Visa.

Exemptions from Student Visa Fee:

• Spouse/partner and children (under the age of 21) of EU and Swiss citizens
• Nationals from: Israel, San Marino, Japan, Morocco, and Turkey
• Students with scholarships from the Belgian State
• Students enrolled in programs such as Erasmus Mundus, Lotus, and Tempus.

Residence Permit Application:

Upon your arrival in Belgium: You are allowed eight days to register at the local administration office and obtain your residence card. It will allow you to stay in the country for the time of your study course For EU students, a residence permit is not necessary, but they are obliged to register their stay if they decided to stay for more than three months

Working in Belgium while Studying:

A student can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester. I hope you find it helpful. You are also welcome to share it with anyone else who may be interested in that. Good luck with everything! And, by the way, as for Belgian chocolates – don’t be shy. I’m always ready! Haha.