1. What type of visa do I need to study in Belgium for longer than 90 days?

You will need a Long-Stay Visa (Type D) to study in Belgium for longer than 90 days. This visa allows you to stay in Belgium for up to one year for the purpose of studying.

2. How long does it take to process a Belgian student visa?

The processing time for a Belgian student visa can vary depending on the individual’s country of residence, but typically it takes about 4 to 6 weeks. It is recommended to apply at least 3 months before your intended date of travel to allow for any potential delays in the processing.

3. Do I need to provide proof of financial means for a long-stay student visa in Belgium?

Yes, you will need to provide proof of financial means for a long-stay student visa in Belgium. This is to ensure that you have enough funds to cover your living expenses and tuition fees while studying in the country.

The specific amount of funds required may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the length of your stay, but it is generally recommended to have at least €615 per month for living costs and €860 for tuition fees.

You can provide proof of financial means through various methods, such as bank statements, a scholarship or grant letter, or a declaration from a sponsor (such as a parent or guardian) stating they will cover your expenses. It is important to check with the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country for their specific requirements.

4. Can I work while studying on a Belgian long-stay student visa?

Yes, you are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) while studying on a Belgian long-stay student visa. However, it is important to note that your primary purpose for being in Belgium should be studying and working should not interfere with your studies. You may need to obtain a work permit in order to work, depending on your nationality and the type of job you will be doing. It is recommended to check with the local authorities or your university for more specific information regarding employment opportunities for international students in Belgium.

5. Is health insurance required for a long-stay student visa in Belgium?

Yes, health insurance is required for a long-stay student visa in Belgium. As an international student, you will need to provide proof of comprehensive health insurance that covers medical expenses, hospitalization costs, and repatriation to your home country. This can be either through a private insurance company or the Belgian national health system if you are eligible. Without proper health insurance, your visa application may be rejected.

6. What documents do I need to submit with my Belgian student visa application?

The documents required for a Belgian student visa application may vary depending on your country of origin, but typically include the following:

1. A completed and signed visa application form
2. Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages and valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay in Belgium
3. Two recent passport-sized photographs
4. Proof of enrollment in an accredited educational institution in Belgium (e.g. acceptance letter, enrollment certificate)
5. Proof of sufficient funds to cover your living expenses in Belgium (e.g. bank statements, scholarship letter)
6. Travel medical insurance with coverage for the duration of your stay in Belgium
7. Criminal clearance certificate from your country of residence
8. Visa fee payment receipt
9. Additional documents such as a motivation letter, proof of accommodation in Belgium, and flight itinerary may also be required.

It is important to check with the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country for specific document requirements and guidelines before submitting your visa application.

7. Do I need to take any language proficiency exams for a Belgian student visa?

According to the Belgian Immigration Office, non-EEA students do not need to take a language proficiency exam when applying for a student visa. However, universities and colleges in Belgium may have their own language requirements for admission. It is best to check with your chosen institution for any language requirements before applying for a student visa.

8. Can I extend my Belgian student visa if my program takes longer than planned?

Yes, you can extend your Belgian student visa if your program takes longer than planned. You will need to submit a request for an extension at the immigration office in Belgium before your current visa expires. You will need to provide proof of your enrollment and academic progress, as well as a written explanation for the delay in completing your studies. The length of your visa extension will depend on the duration of your program extension.

9. Is there an age limit for applying for a long-stay student visa in Belgium?

There is no official age limit for applying for a long-stay student visa in Belgium. However, applicants must meet the general requirements for student visas, including being enrolled in an accredited institution and having sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay.

Additionally, some universities may have age restrictions or specific requirements for certain programs, so it is best to check with individual institutions before applying.

10. How much is the application fee for a Belgian long-stay student visa?

The application fee for a Belgian long-stay student visa is approximately €160.

11. Can I apply for a Belgian long-stay student visa at the embassy in my home country or do I have to apply from within Belgium?

You can apply for a Belgian long-stay student visa at the embassy in your home country. In some cases, it may also be possible to apply from within Belgium, but you would need to check with the Belgian immigration authorities for specific eligibility requirements and procedures. Additionally, non-EU/EEA students must obtain a temporary residence permit in order to study in Belgium and this must be applied for within three months of arriving in the country.

12. What are the current requirements for obtaining a Belgian student visa?

The current requirements for obtaining a Belgian student visa are:

1. Acceptance by a recognized educational institution: You must have an acceptance letter from a Belgian educational institution in order to apply for a student visa.

2. Sufficient financial means: You have to show proof that you have enough funds to cover your living expenses while studying in Belgium. This can be in the form of bank statements, scholarships, or parental support.

3. Health insurance: You need to have health insurance coverage for the duration of your studies in Belgium.

4. Medical certificate: You may be required to provide a medical certificate showing good health and no infectious diseases.

5. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 12 months from the date of your planned arrival in Belgium.

6. Visa application form: You will need to complete and sign the Belgian visa application form, which can be obtained from the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country.

7. Passport-sized photos: You will need to provide two recent passport-sized photos, according to specific requirements set by the embassy or consulate.

8. Proof of accommodation: You will need to provide proof of accommodation for your stay in Belgium, such as a rental agreement or confirmation from your educational institution.

9. Academic transcripts and certificates: You may be required to submit copies of your academic transcripts and certificates as part of the application process.

10. Language proficiency proof: If you are planning on attending courses taught in French or Dutch, you may need to provide proof of language proficiency.

11. Police clearance certificate: Some students may be required to obtain a police clearance certificate from their home country before applying for a student visa.

12. Visa fee: Finally, you will need to pay the applicable visa fee when submitting your application. The amount may vary depending on your nationality and type of study program.

13. Are there any additional requirements for specific countries’ citizens when applying for a Belgian long-stay student visa?

Yes, there may be additional requirements for citizens of certain countries when applying for a Belgian long-stay student visa. These requirements vary depending on the individual’s nationality and the immigration policies of Belgium. Some examples of potential additional requirements include submitting a criminal record check, providing proof of financial means or sponsorship, and obtaining a medical certificate. Applicants are advised to consult with the Belgian embassy or consulate in their country for specific information and requirements related to their citizenship.

14. If my spouse or children will be accompanying me, will they also need to apply for their own visas?

Yes, your spouse and children will also need to apply for their own visas if they plan on accompanying you. They may be eligible for dependent visas, but this will depend on the specific requirements set by the country you are traveling to. It is important to check with the embassy or consulate of the destination country for specific visa requirements for any family members who will be joining you.

15. Will the university or school where I plan to study assist me with the Visa application process?

It depends on the specific university or school. Some institutions may have resources or advisors available to assist with the Visa application process, while others may leave it up to the student to navigate on their own. It is best to contact the institution directly to inquire about their support for international students applying for Visas.

16. What is the maximum length of time allowed on a long-stay student visa in Belgium?

The maximum length of time allowed on a long-stay student visa in Belgium is 1 year.

17.Can I travel to other Schengen countries with my Belgian student visa?

Yes, a Belgian student visa allows you to travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for the sole purpose of tourism or non-remunerated activities. However, if you plan to study or work in another Schengen country for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a residence permit from that country’s authorities. It is also important to note that your main purpose of travel should be related to your studies in Belgium and you may be asked to provide proof of this at the border.

18.What happens if my application is denied?

If your application is denied, you will be notified of the reason for the denial. Depending on the reason, you may have the option to reapply or appeal the decision. It is important to carefully review the denial letter and follow any instructions provided for next steps.

19.Is it possible to switch from a short-term tourist or business Schengen Visa to a long-stay student Visa while already in Belgium?

Yes, it is possible to switch from a short-term tourist or business Schengen Visa to a long-stay student Visa while already in Belgium. However, the process and requirements may vary depending on your specific situation.

If you have already entered Belgium with a short-term Schengen Visa and wish to switch to a long-stay student Visa, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Check your eligibility: First, check if you meet the eligibility criteria for a long-stay student Visa in Belgium. This includes having been accepted into an accredited educational institution, having enough financial means to cover your costs during the stay, and meeting the health insurance requirements.

2. Apply for a student residence permit: Once you have been accepted into an accredited educational institution, you can apply for a student residence permit at your local municipality in Belgium. You will need to provide all the required documents, including proof of enrollment, financial means, insurance coverage, etc.

3. Cancel your short-term Visa: If your short-term Schengen Visa is still valid at the time of application for a residence permit, you will need to cancel it before applying for the residence permit.

4. Wait for a decision: The application processing time can take several weeks or months. During this period, you should not leave Belgium as it could affect your application process.

5. Collect your residence permit: If your residence permit is approved, you will receive it by mail or can collect it from the designated office in Belgium.

6. Register with the local authorities: Once you have received your residence permit, you are required to register at the municipal administration within eight days of arrival in Belgium.

It is essential to note that switching from a short-term tourist or business Schengen Visa to a long-stay student visa while already in Belgium is only allowed for certain nationalities and under specific conditions. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult with the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country for specific and up-to-date information.

20.Can an external agency assist me with my Belgian long-stay Student Visa application process?

Yes, it is possible to seek assistance from an external agency for your Belgian long-stay Student Visa application. These agencies can provide guidance and assistance with the visa application process, document preparation, and submission. However, it is important to note that using an agency does not guarantee a successful visa application and you will still be responsible for ensuring all requirements are met and submitting accurate information.