Belgium Long-Stay Visa Types and Requirements

Key Takeaways:

Belgium long-stay visa (Visa D) allows longer-term residency in Belgium, unlike the short-term Schengen visa.
Visa D is required for non-EU citizens planning to stay in Belgium over 90 days.
Types include student, work, and dependent visas, with specific application steps and required documents.

What is a Belgium Long-Stay Visa (Visa D) and Who Needs It?

A Belgium long-stay visa, also known as Visa D, permits individuals to enter Belgium with the intention of living there longer term. The process of transforming this visa into a residence permit allows holders to extend their stay indefinitely. This contrasts sharply with the Schengen visa, which also grants entry but necessitates departure once the visa expires, typically within three to six months.

Belgium Long-Stay Visa Types and Requirements

Who Requires a Belgium Long-Stay Visa?

It’s important to note that even citizens of countries with visa-free arrangements for Schengen should apply for a Belgium long-stay visa if they intend to stay beyond 90 days. Citizens of the following countries are exempt from needing a long-stay visa: European Union member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, and Switzerland.

Types of Belgium Long-Stay Visa (Visa D) Available

What Are the Options for a Long-Stay Visa?

The specific purposes for applying for a Visa D vary, and each has its unique set of requirements:

Belgium Student Visa: After being admitted to a Belgian university, you can apply for a student visa to legally study in Belgium for the duration of your academic program.
Belgium Work Visa: For those offered employment in Belgium, you can apply for a work visa. You will need to show proof of a job offer from a Belgian employer.
Belgium Dependent Visa: This family reunion visa allows you to stay with a family member or partner who resides in Belgium. Usually, the visa duration aligns with the residence period of the family member or partner.

How to Apply for a Belgium Long-Stay Visa (Visa D)?

Steps to Apply for a Belgium Long-Stay Visa

Following these steps can help streamline your application process for a Belgium long-stay visa:

Determine Where to Apply:
- Belgium Embassy or Consulate.
- Visa application centers like VFS.
- Another Schengen country’s embassy or consulate that handles Belgian visa submissions.
Schedule an Appointment:
- Contact the Belgian embassy or consulate to book an appointment. An appointment is mandatory.
Fill the Belgium National Visa Application Form:
- The application forms are available at the embassy, consulate, or their websites. You will need to provide your personal data and answer questions related to your travel purpose.
Gather Required Documents:
- Collect all necessary documents before your interview. The required documents vary depending on the type of long-stay visa, but general requirements include:
  - Valid passport.
  - Two recent passport-sized photos.
  - Health insurance coverage proof.
  - Evidence of civil status (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.).
  - Receipt of visa fee payment (€180).
Attend the Visa Interview and Submit Documents:
- On the scheduled day, present all required documents. You will undergo an interview discussing your reasons for staying in Belgium.
Pay the Visa Fee:
- The fee for a Belgium long-stay visa is €180. Payment instructions may vary, so you should confirm details with the embassy or consulate.

What Are the Requirements for Belgium Long-Stay Visa (Visa D)?

Specific Documents for Different Types of Visas

While the required documents can vary based on the type of visa, here is a rundown of essential requirements for a Belgium long-stay visa:

Application Form: Obtain and fill out the correct long-stay visa application form from the Belgian Embassy or Consulate.
Passport: A valid passport with at least two blank pages. It should be issued within the past ten years and valid for at least three months after your planned return from the Schengen area.
Passport Photos: Two recent color passport photos (35x40mm).
Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance valid for the entire duration of your stay.
Civil Status Documents: Birth certificate, marriage certificate, death certificate (if applicable).
Visa Fee Payment: Pay the visa fee and bring the receipt to your interview.

Example: Belgium Student Visa Requirements

If you are applying for a Belgium student visa, additional documents might include:

Acceptance letter from a Belgian university.
Proof of financial means to cover your living expenses during your stay.
Proof of accommodation in Belgium.

How to Convert a Belgium Visa D into a Residence Permit?

Steps to Obtain a Residence Permit After Arriving in Belgium

Once you arrive in Belgium with your long-stay visa (Visa D), follow these steps to obtain your residence permit:

Register at the Local Administration Office:
- Visit your local administration office or town hall (maison communale/gemeentehuis) within eight days of arrival.
Register on the Foreigner’s Register:
- You will need to register on the Foreigner’s Register to receive your A residence card. Required documents include your passport and recent passport photos.

For detailed information on procedures, you might want to visit the Official Belgium Immigration Office.

What to Do If Your Belgium Long-Stay Visa Gets Rejected?

Steps to Take in Case of Visa Rejection

If your Belgium long-stay visa application is denied, you can file an appeal, provided you have substantial proof or reasons to believe the rejection was unjustified. Here’s what you can do:

Contact the Belgium Embassy or Consulate:
- Contact the embassy or consulate where you applied to inquire about the appeal process or ask for a review of your application.

Conclusion

Applying for a Belgium long-stay visa can seem daunting, but understanding the proper steps and requirements can simplify the process. Whether you’re aiming to study, work, or reunite with family in Belgium, starting with the right visa application is crucial. Ensure all documents are in order, fees are paid, and be prepared for your interview to set yourself up for success.

Should you need further guidance, the Belgium embassy or consulate in your country is an excellent resource for up-to-date and specific information on the application process.

By carefully following these steps and preparing your documents meticulously, you’ll be much closer to starting your new journey in Belgium.

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Glossary of Immigration Terms

Belgium Long-Stay Visa (Visa D)

A permit that allows individuals to enter Belgium with the intention of residing there for an extended period, which can be converted into a residence permit for an indefinite stay.
Schengen Visa

A type of visa that allows individuals to enter and stay in the Schengen Area for a short period (up to 90 days) but requires them to leave once the visa expires.
Dependent Visa

A visa that allows family members or partners of a resident in Belgium to join and live with them. This type of visa often aligns with the duration of the resident family member’s stay.
Residence Permit

An official document that allows an individual to legally reside in Belgium for an extended period, obtained after registering with the local administration upon arrival.
Foreigner’s Register

A registry that individuals must enroll in upon arriving in Belgium on a Visa D to obtain an A residence card, facilitating their legal stay in the country.

This Article In A Nutshell:

Belgium Long-Stay Visa (Visa D) allows longer stays with the possibility of residence permit conversion. Citizens outside the exemption list need it if staying over 90 days. Applying involves specific types like student, work, or dependent visas. Ensure correct documentation, pay fees, and pass the interview for a smooth process. Rejection appeal options exist.
— By VisaVerge.com