1. What is a Belgium long stay visa?
A Belgium long stay visa, also known as a Type D visa, is a document that allows an individual to enter and stay in Belgium for an extended period. This type of visa is typically issued for purposes such as study, work, or family reunification and allows the holder to stay in Belgium for more than 90 days within a 180-day period. It is different from a short-stay (Schengen) visa which only allows stays of up to 90 days.
2. Do I need a visa to work in Belgium?
If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you will need a work visa (type B) to work in Belgium. You will also need a residence permit for the duration of your employment. This must be applied for before entering Belgium.
If you are an EU/EEA citizen, you do not need a work visa or residence permit to work in Belgium, but you must register with the local authorities within 3 months of your arrival.
3. How can I apply for a work visa?
To apply for a work visa, you will need to have a job offer from a Belgian employer. The employer must then submit an application for a single permit on your behalf at the regional employment office (RVA/ONEM). You may also be required to provide additional documents such as proof of education and experience, background check certificate, and medical clearance.
4. What type of residence permit do I need?
Non-EU/EEA citizens will need to apply for a type B residence permit for the duration of their employment in Belgium.
5. Can I change jobs while on a work visa/residence permit?
Yes, it is possible to change jobs while on a work visa/residence permit in Belgium. However, your new employer will need to submit an application for a new single permit on your behalf.
6. How long does it take to process a work visa and residence permit?
The processing time for a work visa and residence permit can vary depending on individual circumstances and workload at the regional employment office (RVA/ONEM). On average, it takes between 2-3 months for the authorities to make a decision on your application.
7. Can my family join me in Belgium?
Yes, if you have obtained a valid residence permit as an employee in Belgium, your spouse and children under 18 years old may also be eligible to join you through family reunification procedures. They will also need to apply for their own residence permits and meet certain requirements such as proof of relationship and financial stability.
3. How do I apply for a long stay work visa for Belgium?
To apply for a long stay work visa for Belgium, follow these steps:
1. Determine the type of work permit needed: There are different types of work permits in Belgium, such as a Type A work permit for highly skilled workers, a Type B work permit for seasonal or temporary workers, and a Type C work permit for self-employed individuals. Make sure you apply for the correct type of work permit based on your job and skills.
2. Find a sponsor: In most cases, your employer in Belgium will act as your sponsor and will be responsible for initiating the visa application process.
3. Gather required documents: The specific documents required can vary depending on your nationality and the type of work permit you are applying for. Generally, you will need to submit a valid passport, proof of employment from your sponsor, financial documents to show you can support yourself during your stay in Belgium, and any other relevant supporting documents.
4. Apply online: Once you have all the necessary documents, you can start the online application process through the Belgian Immigration Office website. You will need to create an account and fill out the application form.
5. Pay the application fee: The visa application fee is non-refundable and must be paid online when submitting your application.
6. Submit biometric data: After submitting your application, you will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule an appointment at a Belgian embassy or consulate to have your biometric data (fingerprints and photo) taken.
7. Wait for a decision: Processing times vary but it can take up to several weeks to receive a decision on your visa application. If approved, you will be provided with a long stay work visa which allows you to enter Belgium and obtain a residence permit once in the country.
It is important to note that citizens of some countries may also require a D-visa to enter Belgium before obtaining their residence permit. It is best to check with your local Belgian embassy or consulate for specific requirements and procedures.
4. What documents are required to apply for a Belgian work visa?
The documents required to apply for a Belgian work visa may vary depending on the category of visa you are applying for, but generally include:
1. Completed and signed visa application form
2. Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your intended stay in Belgium
3. Recent passport-sized photos
4. Proof of employment or job offer in Belgium (such as a contract or letter from your employer)
5. Letter of invitation from the company or organization you will be working for in Belgium
6. Educational certificates and diplomas
7. CV or resume
8. Proof of financial means, such as bank statements, to cover living expenses during your stay in Belgium
9. Health insurance coverage valid in Belgium
10. Police clearance certificate from your country of residence
11. Flight itinerary or proof of travel arrangements
12. Application fee payment receipt
It is recommended to check with the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country for the specific requirements for your type of work visa application.
5. Can I apply for a Belgian work visa online?
Yes, you can apply for a Belgian work visa online through the Foreign Nationals portal (FRONTIER) of the Immigration Office of Belgium. You will need to create an account and follow the steps outlined on the website to complete your application. However, in some cases, you may be required to appear in person at a Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country to submit your application and provide biometric data.
6. How long does it take to process a Belgian work visa application?
The processing time for a Belgian work visa application can vary depending on your country of origin and the specific type of work visa you are applying for. On average, it can take anywhere from 3-6 weeks for a decision to be made on your application. However, in some cases it may take longer if additional documents or information is required. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended start date to allow for any potential delays in processing.
7. What is the validity period of a Belgian work visa?
The validity period of a Belgian work visa varies depending on the length of the employment contract. Generally, it is valid for the duration of the employment contract or up to 1 year initially for non-EU citizens. It can be extended upon renewal of the employment contract, and in some cases, it can be valid up to 5 years.
8. Can I extend my Belgian work visa if needed?
Yes, it is possible to extend a Belgian work visa if needed. The process for extending the visa will depend on the type of work permit you have and how long you have been working in Belgium. It is important to start the extension process several months before your current visa expires to ensure enough time for processing. You may need to provide updated documents or go through an interview with immigration authorities as part of the extension process.
9. Is there an age limit for applying for a Belgian work visa?
Yes, the minimum age for applying for a Belgian work visa is 18 years old. There is no maximum age limit, but applicants must be able to prove that they are physically and mentally fit to perform their intended job duties.
10. Do I need to have a job offer before applying for a Belgian work visa?
It is not necessary to have a job offer before applying for a Belgian work visa, but it can make the application process easier. Having a job offer could demonstrate that you have a specific purpose for coming to Belgium and that you will be able to support yourself financially during your stay. However, if you are planning to come to Belgium for other reasons, such as starting a business or studying, you can still apply for a work visa without a job offer. It is important to have a clear plan and reason for coming to Belgium in your visa application.
11. Is there a minimum salary requirement for obtaining a Belgian work visa?
There is no specific minimum salary requirement for obtaining a Belgian work visa. However, the employer must provide proof that they are offering a salary and benefits that are considered “reasonable and sufficient” for the position being offered. This amount may vary depending on the job industry and level of experience required for the position. It is ultimately up to the discretion of the Belgian immigration authorities to determine if the salary offered meets these requirements.
12. Can family members accompany me on my Belgian work visa?
No, family members cannot accompany you on your Belgian work visa. They will need to apply for their own visas, based on their own purposes of travel, if they wish to join you in Belgium.
13. Are there any language requirements for obtaining a Belgian work visa?
Yes, applicants for a Belgian work visa must have a basic knowledge of one of the official languages of Belgium (Dutch, French or German). This requirement may be waived if the applicant has a job offer in a highly skilled or specialized position where the use of English is common.
14. Which type of medical insurance is required for obtaining a Belgian work visa?
Employees working in Belgium are required to have basic health insurance, which is provided through the Belgian National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (INAMI). This type of medical insurance covers essential medical care and treatments, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescribed medications.
For obtaining a Belgian work visa, foreign employees may also be required to have additional private medical insurance. This type of insurance provides coverage for services that are not covered by the basic health insurance, such as dental care, vision care, and certain elective treatments.
It is important to consult with your employer or the Belgian embassy in your country to determine the specific requirements for obtaining a work visa and what type of medical insurance is needed. Additionally, it is advisable to research and compare different private health insurance options to find the best coverage for your individual needs.
15. Can I change jobs while on a Belgian work visa?
If you hold a Belgian work visa, it is possible to change jobs within Belgium as long as the new job still meets the requirements for your visa. This typically includes having a valid employment contract and meeting the salary and experience requirements for the specific type of work permit you hold.
Before changing jobs, you may need to apply for a new work permit or update your current one with the necessary information about your new employer. It is important to check with the relevant authorities to ensure that all necessary steps are taken before making any changes in your employment status.
Additionally, if you hold a work permit based on a specific job or employer, changing jobs may result in your visa being cancelled and you may need to reapply for a new one. It is essential to follow all procedures and guidelines outlined by Belgian immigration law to avoid any issues with your visa status.
16. Will I be eligible to receive any benefits while working in Belgium on a long stay Work Visa?
If you are working in Belgium on a long stay Work Visa, you may be eligible for certain benefits such as healthcare, unemployment benefits, and maternity or paternity leave. However, eligibility for these benefits will vary depending on your employer’s contributions and the specific requirements of each benefit.You may also be required to make contributions to the Belgian social security system, which will entitle you to certain benefits. It is important to check with your employer and the Belgian social security authorities to determine your specific entitlements.
Additionally, Belgium has bilateral social security agreements with many countries, so it is possible that you may still be able to receive benefits from your home country’s government while working in Belgium. It is recommended that you contact the relevant authorities in both countries for more information.
17. Are there any restrictions on the types of jobs I can do with a Belgian Work Visa?
Yes, there are certain restrictions on the types of jobs you can do with a Belgian Work Visa. You must only work in the job or profession for which your visa was issued, and you cannot change jobs without obtaining prior permission from the authorities. Your employer must also ensure that your salary and work conditions comply with Belgian labor laws.
In addition, certain work sectors may have specific requirements that need to be fulfilled before you can work in them. For example, healthcare professionals are required to have their qualifications recognized by the relevant authorities before they can practice in Belgium.
Furthermore, as a non-EU citizen, you may face limited job opportunities in fields that require fluency in one of Belgium’s official languages (Dutch, French or German).
It is important to note that working illegally on a Belgian Work Visa or violating any of its conditions can result in deportation and a ban from re-entering the country. Therefore, it is crucial to comply with all restrictions and regulations related to your work permit.
18.Can I travel to other Schengen countries with my Belgian Work Visa?
Yes, with a valid Belgian Work Visa, you can travel to other Schengen countries for a duration of up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. You may need to show proof of your employment in Belgium and evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay in the other Schengen countries. It is recommended to check with the embassies or consulates of the specific countries you plan to visit for any additional requirements or restrictions.
19.What should I do if my Belgian Work Visa application is rejected?
If your Belgian Work Visa application is rejected, you can appeal the decision within 30 days of receiving the rejection. You will need to provide additional documentation or information to address the reasons for the rejection. If your appeal is still rejected, you may be able to file for judicial review with a court in Belgium. It is recommended to seek advice from an immigration lawyer if you are considering appealing a rejected visa application.
20.How do I renew my long stay Work Visa in Belgium?
To renew your long stay Work Visa in Belgium, you need to follow these steps:
1. Check the expiration date of your visa: It is important to ensure that you apply for renewal before your current visa expires.
2. Gather required documents: You will need to provide a completed and signed application form, a valid passport, proof of employment (such as an employment contract), and any other relevant supporting documents.
3. Visit your local town hall or commune: You can submit your application for renewal at your local town hall or commune in Belgium.
4. Pay the fees: You will need to pay the applicable fees for visa renewal, which may vary depending on your nationality and the type of work permit you have.
5.Required medical examination: Depending on the type of work you do in Belgium, you may be required to undergo a medical examination by a designated doctor.
6. Wait for approval: After submitting your application and all necessary documents, you will need to wait for approval from the Immigration Office in Brussels. The processing time can vary but it usually takes around 2-3 months.
7. Collect your new residence permit: Once your application is approved, you will receive a new residence permit that allows you to continue working in Belgium.
It is important to note that if there are any changes in your situation (such as change of employer or address), you must inform the authorities and update your residency permit accordingly. Failure to do so may result in legal consequences.