How to Apply for a Student Visa to Belgium

Belgium offers a welcoming environment for international students pursuing higher education. If you are planning to study in Belgium, you will need to apply for a Type D student study visa, which is a national long-term visa. Regardless of your academic level, whether post-baccalaureate, licentiate, master's, or doctoral, this guide will walk you through the process of applying for and obtaining a student visa.

Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining a Student Visa to Belgium

To successfully obtain a student visa for Belgium, you must complete six key steps. Here's what you need to do:

1. Admission to a University in Belgium

The first requirement to apply for a student visa is to gain admission to a recognized university in Belgium. You must be accepted into a study program before starting the visa application process.

2. Prepare Your Visa Application

Once you’ve secured your place at a Belgian university, the next step is to prepare your study visa application. This involves gathering all the necessary documents and fulfilling specific requirements as outlined by the Belgian authorities.

3. Pay the Visa Processing Fee

As part of the visa application process, you will need to pay a processing fee of €180. This fee ensures that your application is considered and processed. You can obtain more information about payment procedures from the Office for Foreigners in Belgium.

4. Submit Your Visa Application

After preparing your visa dossier and making the necessary payment, you must submit your application. There are two ways to apply:

• Schedule an appointment at the Belgian Consulate in your home country.
• Alternatively, apply online through Belgium’s official visa portal, where you can track the progress of your application.

5. Pay the D-category Study Visa Fee

For a long-term study visa (Type D), you may also be required to pay an additional fee. This step varies depending on the specific consulate or embassy you are applying through.

6. Receive Your Study Visa

Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive your Belgian student visa. This will allow you to legally study in Belgium for the duration of your program.

Online Application Process

Belgium has streamlined the visa application process with an online system, similar to many other European countries like France. This system enables you to apply and monitor the status of your application conveniently.

Applying for a student visa to Belgium involves several important steps. By ensuring you meet the requirements, prepare your documentation, and follow the procedures outlined above, you can navigate the process smoothly and begin your educational journey in Belgium. Whether you are studying with or without a scholarship, these steps will help you secure the necessary visa for your studies.