Key Takeaways:
- Non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Schengen country students need a Belgium Student Visa, except U.S., Japan, Australia, etc.
- Steps include gaining acceptance, completing forms, gathering documents, scheduling appointments, and interview preparation.
- Requirements: completed application form, valid passport, photos, health insurance, financial proof, admission letter, language proficiency, non-criminal record.
Do I Need a Visa to Study in Belgium?
If you are an international student interested in studying in Belgium, you might be wondering if you need a visa. Yes, a Belgium Student Visa is necessary if you are from a country that does not have a visa agreement with Belgium. However, you do not need to apply for a student visa if:
– You are from the EU or EEA.
– You reside in one of the Schengen countries.
– You are from the U.S., Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Monaco, or the Republic of Andorra. If you are from one of these countries, you can directly apply for a residence permit upon entering Belgium.
Steps to Apply for a Belgium Student Visa
Here are the steps you need to follow to secure your student visa and study in Belgium:
1. Gain Acceptance from a Belgian University
Before applying for a student visa, you must secure admission to a university in Belgium. After acceptance, you can proceed with the visa application process.
2. Complete the Visa Application Form
Download, print, and fill out the visa application form with correct and updated information. Make sure all sections are accurately completed.
3. Gather Required Documents
Prepare all necessary documents beforehand. Ensure that each document is legalized or apostilled.
4. Schedule a Visa Appointment
Book an appointment at the Belgian embassy or consulate to submit your visa application. Note that applying without an appointment is not permitted.
5. Prepare for Your Interview
You will have an interview where you must discuss your study plans in Belgium and your future goals. Prepare thoroughly to answer all questions convincingly.
What Are the Belgium Visa Requirements for Students?
To apply for a Belgium Student Visa, you need to provide the following documents:
- Student Visa Application Form: Print, fill out, and sign the application form with accurate information.
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid throughout your stay in Belgium and has at least two blank pages.
- Photos: Submit two recent identical photos taken within the past six months. Follow the Belgium visa photo requirements strictly.
- Health Insurance: It should cover the entire duration of your studies in Belgium.
- Proof of Financial Means: You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself. The required amount is €666 per month.
- Proof of Admission: Provide evidence of your acceptance into a Belgian university.
- Supporting Letter: Write a letter explaining your choice to study in Belgium and the specific program.
- Proof of English Language Proficiency: Submit a TOEFL or IELTS certificate. Score requirements vary by university, but Ghent University does not require this proof.
- Proof of Non-criminal Record: Needed if you are over 21 years old.
- High School Diploma: Present the original copy.
Contact the embassy if you are required to bring additional documents. All documents not in English, French, Dutch, or German must be translated by a certified translator.
Financial Requirements for a Belgium Student Visa
A vital part of your student visa application is proving that you have sufficient financial means for your stay. The monthly requirement is €666, covering your medical care, accommodation, living, and study costs. Depending on your circumstances, you might:
- Finance Yourself: Provide your bank statements.
- Get Sponsored: If a family member or sponsor supports you, submit a statement of sponsorship and support.
- Hold a Scholarship: Demonstrate that you are a scholarship recipient covering your expenses.
How Much Does a Belgium Student Visa Cost?
The total cost for a Belgium Student Visa is approximately €200, which includes the application process and administrative fees.
What Happens After Arriving in Belgium?
Upon arrival in Belgium, you have eight days to register at your local administration office to obtain your residence card. This card permits you to stay for the duration of your study program and can be renewed annually.
Students from the EU do not need a residence permit but must register if staying longer than three months.
How Long is the Belgian Student Visa Valid?
Typically, a Belgian student visa is valid for one to two years, depending on your study program. You can renew your visa if your study duration exceeds your visa validity.
Belgium Visa Extension for Students
If your visa is nearing expiration and you need an extension, apply for a residence permit extension at least 14 days before the expiration date. This application should be made at your local administration office or town hall.
Can International Students Work in Belgium?
Yes, international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester as long as the work does not interfere with their studies. During semester breaks and holidays, there is no restriction on working hours. International students now receive a single permit, effective from January 2020, allowing them to live, study, and work in Belgium. The additional type C work permit is no longer required.
Bringing Family Members to Belgium
If you wish to bring your spouse and dependent children to Belgium, you can do so with a Belgium dependent visa. To facilitate this, you must:
- Find suitable accommodation.
- Obtain health insurance for your family members.
- Prove that you can support them financially.
Your family can stay with you as long as your visa remains valid.
Switching from Student to Work Visa in Belgium
You can switch your student visa to a work visa if you secure a job in Belgium. Even if you do not immediately find a job, you can stay in Belgium for at least nine months after completing your studies to search for work. To switch your visa, apply for a status change at your local town hall, ensuring you do this while still legally residing in Belgium.
For more details on the official procedures for obtaining a Belgium Student Visa, visit the official Belgian immigration website.
This extensive guide covers all essential aspects of obtaining a Belgium Student Visa, making your journey to study in Belgium smoother and well-informed!
Learn Today:
Glossary of Immigration Terms
1. Belgium Student Visa: A visa is required for non-EU/EEA students and students from countries without a visa-waiver agreement to study in Belgium. It allows international students to stay in Belgium for the duration of their studies.
2. Schengen Area: A group of 27 European countries that have abolished passport control at their mutual borders, allowing free and unrestricted movement of people. Citizens of these countries do not need a visa to study in Belgium.
3. Residence Permit: A document that allows non-EU/EEA students to reside in Belgium legally for the duration of their study program. It must be obtained within eight days of arrival in Belgium.
4. Proof of Financial Means: Documentation required for the student visa application showing that the applicant has sufficient funds (€666 per month) to cover living expenses, medical care, accommodation, and study costs in Belgium.
5. TOEFL/IELTS: Standardized tests that measure English language proficiency. They are commonly required by universities for non-native English speakers to prove language competence, though some Belgian universities, like Ghent University, may not require these tests.
This Article In A Nutshell:
Yes, you need a Belgium Student Visa unless you’re from the EU, EEA, Schengen, U.S., Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Monaco, or Andorra. Steps include university acceptance, form completion, document gathering, appointment scheduling, interview preparation. Financial proof is €666/month. Visa costs €200. Visa valid 1-2 years, extendable. Work up to 20 hours/week. Family can join.
— By VisaVerge.com
