family visit visa belgium

Visa for Belgium

All information on applying for a visa to Belgium.

• Last updated on August 30, 2022

Visas are issued by the Embassy of Belgium in Washington, D.C. and by the Consulates General of Belgium in Atlanta , Los Angeles and New York .

Honorary consulates do not issue Schengen visas.  

Types of visa

• Airport transit, or A-visa
• Short stay (< 90 days), or C-visa
• Long stay (>90 days), or D-visa
• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
• Privacy statement

Competent authority for visa applications

All the information concerning visa applications for Belgium is available on the  website of the Immigration Office of the FPS Home Affairs , which is the competent Belgian authority for access to the territory, stay, residence and removal of foreigners in Belgium.

© 2024 FPS Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation

Family Visit Visa Belgium

If you’re planning to visit your family in Belgium, obtaining a family visit visa is essential. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the necessary information and guidance to understand the family visit visa process in Belgium. Whether you’re visiting your parents, spouse, children, or other eligible family members, a family visit visa allows you to reunite and spend quality time together in Belgium.

• How Do I Get a Partner Visa for Belgium?
• Belgium Tourist Visa Marriage: Regulations and FAQs
• Family Reunion Visa Belgium for Parents

Eligibility for Family Visit Visa

The family visit visa in Belgium is designed for individuals who have close family members residing in the country. Eligible family members may include parents, spouses, children, siblings, and grandparents, among others. It’s important to ensure that your relationship with the family member meets the requirements set by Belgian immigration authorities. Supporting documentation such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of kinship will be required during the application process.

Application Process

Applying for a family visit visa in Belgium involves several steps. It’s crucial to carefully follow the process to ensure a successful application. Begin by completing the visa application form and gathering all the necessary supporting documents, including proof of relationship, financial means, and accommodation arrangements. Submit the application and supporting documents to the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country or the country of your residence.

Financial Requirements

To obtain a family visit visa, you must provide evidence of sufficient financial means to support yourself during the visit. Belgian immigration authorities may set minimum income thresholds or require proof of financial support from your family member residing in Belgium. Bank statements, employment contracts, or sponsorship letters can be used as supporting documents to demonstrate your financial stability.

Duration and Validity

The duration of stay allowed under a family visit visa may vary depending on individual circumstances. Typically, the visa allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The visa’s validity will be determined by the immigration authorities based on the purpose of the visit and supporting documentation provided. If you wish to extend your stay, you may need to apply for an extension or consider alternative visa options.

Travel Insurance and Health Requirements

Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for family visitors to Belgium. It must cover medical expenses, emergency medical treatment, and repatriation for the entire duration of your stay. Additionally, it is recommended to have comprehensive health insurance to cover any medical emergencies during your visit. Ensure you fulfil the necessary health requirements and carry any required vaccinations or medical certificates when travelling to Belgium.

Accommodation and Sponsorship

When applying for a family visit visa, you need to provide evidence of accommodation arrangements in Belgium. This can be in the form of hotel reservations, a letter of invitation from your family member, or a rental agreement. If your family member will be sponsoring your visit, they must fulfil certain obligations and provide relevant supporting documents, such as proof of income and accommodation.

Interview and Decision

While not all applicants are required to attend an interview, it is possible that you may be called for one as part of the visa application process. During the interview, be prepared to answer questions related to your purpose of visit, ties to your home country, and other relevant information. The visa decision will be made based on your application, supporting documents, and interview (if applicable). It is important to be honest and provide accurate information throughout the process.

Arrival and Stay in Belgium

Upon arrival in Belgium, you will undergo immigration checks at the border. Ensure you have all the required documents, including your passport, visa, and proof of accommodation, readily available for inspection. During your stay, it’s important to comply with Belgian laws and regulations. While enjoying your time with family, be aware of your rights and responsibilities as a visitor in Belgium.

In Conclusion, Obtaining a family visit visa for Belgium allows you to reunite with your loved ones and create lasting memories. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and necessary documentation, you can navigate the visa process with confidence. Remember to seek professional advice and assistance if needed to ensure a smooth and successful application. Wishing you a wonderful time visiting your family in Belgium!

Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs)

How long does it take to process a family visit visa for belgium.

The processing time varies but typically takes several weeks to months.

What documents are essential for a Family Visit Visa application?

Essential documents include proof of relationship, financial means, and a valid passport.

Can I work or study on a Family Visit Visa?

No, a Family Visit Visa is specifically for family reunification and does not permit work or study.

What challenges might I face during the Family Visit Visa application?

Common challenges include document verification and meeting financial requirements.

Can I extend my stay under a Family Visit Visa?

Extensions are possible in certain situations, and the process will be outlined by Belgian immigration authorities.

Do you need a Belgian family visa?

Contact our team of skilled immigration lawyers to discuss your visa and immigration needs.

Call us on +234 812 5505 986 or WhatsApp us at +234 818 1547 085 for immediate assistance with your situation. We are available to assist you in person, over the phone, or online.

• fr français
• pt português

Belgium - Family member

Are you a non-EU citizen living in Belgium and would you like to bring your non-EU family members to live with you there? You can find information below on the conditions, procedures and rights your family members can enjoy during their stay.

You can apply for family reunification if you have a right to stay in Belgium for more than three months or a permanent resident status.

The following persons are considered to be family members:

• your spouse or registered partner (equivalent to marriage) or your legal partner within a duly attested and stable relationship for at least one year. Both you and your spouse, fiancé or partner must be over the age of 21;
• your minor children who are unmarried;
• your adult children, who are unmarried and who are disabled;
• your parents (only if you are an unaccompanied minor and have been granted international protection).

As a sponsor, you need to fulfil certain conditions (means of subsistence, health insurance, accommodation, living under the same roof, etc.). Some categories (for example persons who have been granted refugee status less than 1 year ago) are exempted from some of these conditions.

If you and your family members fulfil the conditions, your family members will be issued a residence permit and a long stay visa type D.

• Immigration Office
• Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs
• Diplomatic Missions Abroad
• Helpdesk of Myria

Share this page

Private/family visit visa

Information on the private and/or family visit visa.

• Last updated on September 26, 2023

1) A valid international passport (the validity of the passport has to exceed the end of the proposed trip by at least 3 months) + copy of the used pages of the passport + 1 copy national ID-card + copy of the used pages of your previous passport (if you have one).

2) 1 visa application form + 1 recent passport photograph.

3) Proof of employment and proof of leave.

4) Ticket reservation.

5) A valid Int. Travel Insurance Document + 1 copy. The amount insured has to be minimum 30.000 EUR (equivalent in PKR) insurance has to cover the whole Schengen territory as well as the whole duration of the sojourn in Schengen territory. If the insurance cannot be obtained in Pakistan, one should obtain insurance from Europe.

6) An original sponsorship form (annex 3 bis) from Belgium: recommended.

7) Copy of the ID card of sponsor.

8) Proof of solvency of sponsor (sponsor must prove minimum revenues per month of 1.000 € increased by 150 € per person under his charge and 200 € per person invited. If the sponsor is a family member of the applicant basis is 800 € plus 150 € per person under his charge and per person invited).  Therefore we need the Family Composition of the sponsor and also the last Income Tax Papers of the sponsor.

9) If applicable, proof of family ties (copies of birth and marriage certificates etc.), or a letter of invitation with a detailed description of the ties between the host and the invited person. 

10) Proof of personal financial means:

• Credit card + 1 copy
• Personal salary slips (12 months)
• Personal bank account statements (6 months)

Additional documents may, where appropriate, be required. Presentation of a complete file does not necessarily mean that a visa will be issued. Applications have to be transmitted minimum four weeks before the actual travel date.

Visa application files have to be introduced through FedEx Visa Drop Box facilities.

* Attention,  guarantees for return  (assessment of migration risk): the applicant is requested to provide as much information as possible to document his/her  family background, professional and socio-economic status, ownership of land or real estate (for instance : proof of family bonds with his/her  country of origin, proof of regular income and stable source of revenues from the applicant and/or his/her partner, proof of property, etc.)

This information is essential to correctly judge the intention of the applicant to leave the Schengen area before the expiry of his/her visa.

* All  fees  (handling fees or consular fees) are to be paid to Gerry's international. Nobody (staff, lawyers, private consultants or travel agencies) is entitled to charge any amount of money directly to the client outside of Gerry's international offices or outside of the Embassy.

Visa for Belgium and Luxembourg

All information on applying for a visa to Belgium and Luxembourg.

Schengen visas

• Start of the Visa Information System (VIS)
• General information
• Business visas
• Marriage in Belgium
• Medical visas
• Private/Family visit visas
• Tourist visas
• Transit visas (airport)
• Visas short stay for citizens of Afghanistan
• Visas to accompany or join a citizen of the Union

© 2024 FPS Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation

• Ga verder in het NL
• Continuer en FR
• Keep going in EN

Visa D application (Family reunification)

[Article 12 bis , §1, paragraph 1 of the Law of 15 December 1980]

Foreign nationals who wish to come to Belgium to live with their family must apply in person for a family reunification visa at the Belgian embassy or consulate general responsible for their place of residence.

In most countries, the post works with an external service provider In this case, the visa application must be submitted to this service provider ( (VFS Global, TLS Contact,...). 

The list of Belgian embassies and consulates is published on the FPS Foreign Affairs site ( www.diplomatie.belgium.be ).

A request for family reunification cannot be submitted directly to the Immigration Office.

Where do I apply for my visa?

By way of derogation , family members of a foreign national who has been recognised as a refugee by Belgium, or who has been granted subsidiary protection, may go t o any Belgian diplomatic or consular post that issues visas.  However, the use of this facility is not unlimited. The FPS Foreign Affairs may designate a single reference post. In this case, the applicant has no choice but to go to this post. Furthermore, the post in question is not bound to accept the application if it establishes that the applicant has, in principle, no objective reason to submit his or her visa application in its jurisdiction.

By way of derogation , a third-country national who is in a country to which he or she has applied for asylum may go to the Belgian diplomatic or consular post responsible for that country, provided that the asylum procedure is still in progress. He must therefore present proof that he is authorized to stay in the country pending a decision on his asylum application.

It is highly recommended to read the practical information published on the website of the competent Belgian embassy/consulate-general, and on the website of the service provider who receives visa applications on behalf of the embassy/consulate-general (TLS Contact, VFS Global,...) before starting the application process. 

How can I apply for a visa?

Step 1: create a user account.

This account must be created on https://visaonweb.diplomatie.be/ (This hyperlink opens a new window) by the foreign national applying for family reunification or by the sponsor or by a third party assisting them with their application.

STEP 2: fill in an application form

The user fills in a visa application form online. He or she will indicate clearly the purpose of the visa application in box 23 of the form (for example, family reunification with a refugee) and, if necessary, add a comment in box 24.

The user sends the completed and validated form. Then he or she will receive a copy of the form at the email address provided on his or her account.

If family reunification involves several members of the same family, one account can be used to fill in and send several application forms.

STEP 3: make an appointment to submit the visa application 

The user makes an appointment via the website of the external service provider with which the diplomatic or consular post works.

STEP 4: submit the visa application

4.1. go in person.

On the day of the appointment, the applicant must go in person to the Visa Application Centre (VAC) selected when making the appointment.

By way of derogation, persons entitled to family reunification who find it impossible or excessively difficult to submit their visa application in person may submit their application by remote communication to the Belgian diplomatic or consular post responsible for their place of residence. [CJEU - Judgment of 18 April 2023 in case C-1/23 PPU] This mainly concerns applicants who are in a country or region affected by war or conflict and where Belgium does not issue visas.   The following procedure must be followed: 1. The applicant (or his/her representative) sends an e-mail to the relevant diplomatic or consular post stating the reasons why it is impossible or excessively difficult for him/her to submit the visa application in person.   2.   The post evaluates whether it can accept a visa application introduced through a remote means of communication.  In the event of a positive evaluation, the post sends the applicant a visa application form and instructions on how to pay the visa fee.  In the event of a negative evaluation, the post will inform the applicant by e-mail. The applicant must then follow the usual procedure (see above). 3.  Applicant authorized to submit his/her application through a remote means of communication can send his/her file to the post by e-mail. This file must include the following documents: the visa application form received by e-mail, completed, signed and printed out; a valid travel document; proof of payment of the fee, unless exempted; documents proving that the conditions for family reunification have been met. If the original documents issued abroad have not been presented for legalization prior to submission of the visa application, the applicant must enclose a good-quality, color copy of both sides of these documents with the application.  4.   If payment has been made, the visa application is registered and forwarded to the Aliens Office for further processing.  ATTENTION: The personal appearance of the applicant at a later stage of the procedure remains compulsory  for identity verification, biometric identification and, if necessary, an interview.  Original documents must still be presented at a later stage of the procedure to verify their form and authenticity, at the latest when the visa is issued if the conditions for family reunification are met. The presentation of a travel document in which a visa can be affixed at a later stage in the procedure remains obligatory, at the latest when the visa is issued.  The visa will not be issued to an applicant who has not appeared in person at least once during the procedure or who has not presented the original supporting documents.

4.2. Documents

On the day of the appointment, the applicant must submit the following documents:

• the appointment confirmation;
• the visa application form received by e-mail, completed, signed and printed out;
• a valid personal travel document;
• proof of payment of the fee, unless exempted;
• proof of payment of the visa handling fee, unless exempted;
• proof of payment of the service fee determined by the VAC;
• documents proving that the conditions for family reunification have been met.

The VAC checks with the applicant the contents of his or her file and hands him or her a checklist indicating which documents were presented when the visa application was submitted and which documents, if any, were not presented. Applicants whose files are not complete may decide to submit their visa application later on. In this case, they will be given their file and will make a new appointment online once they have completed their file.

By way of derogation, the visa application of family members of a foreign national whose refugee status has been recognised by Belgium or who has been granted subsidiary protection, is taken into consideration as soon as the following documents have been submitted: the visa application form received by e-mail, completed, signed and printed out; a personal travel document in which a visa can be affixed or, if the applicant is unable to present this document, another proof of identity (or several other proofs of identity) to which the competent Belgian diplomatic or consular post gives weight (cf. travel document) ; proof that the sponsor is a foreign national whose refugee status has been recognised by Belgium or who has been granted subsidiary protection. ATTENTION: we strongly recommend that you submit documents proving that the conditions for family reunification have been met as soon as you submit your visa application, rather than at a later stage in the procedure. These documents are essential for processing the visa application.

4.3. Handling fee and fingerprints

The applicant must also pay the handling fee and the service fee determined by the VAC.

The VAC will take a photo and fingerprints of the applicant.

5. STEP 5: sending of the visa application

The VAC sends the visa application and the file to the relevant diplomatic or consular post.

Travel document and proof of identity

In general, foreign nationals who wish to come to Belgium to live with their family must prove their identity by presenting a travel document recognised by Belgium.

When the visa is issued, this document must be valid for at least 12 months, because the family reunification visa is a national long-stay visa valid for 12 months (D visa). Therefore, the period of validity of the travel document cannot be shorter than the period of validity of the visa.

By way of derogation , family members of a foreign national whose refugee status has been recognised by Belgium or to whom Belgium has granted subsidiary protection, who do not have a valid travel document and who cannot get one before submitting their visa application, may submit their application without presenting a travel document. However, applicants must explain why they are unable to present a valid travel document when submitting their application. Indeed, the ability to submit a visa application without a travel document must not lead to abuse . The competent Belgian diplomatic or consular post will determine whether, in practice, it is actually particularly difficult, or even impossible, for the applicant to obtain a travel document. This difficulty or impossibility may be general and linked to the local context or specific to the applicant. In other words, if the post considers that it is reasonably possible to obtain a travel document, this document must be presented when the application is submitted, or, at the latest, when the visa is issued. In addition, applicants who do not present a valid travel document when submitting their application must prove their full identity by other means of evidence . The competent Belgian diplomatic or consular post will determine the alternative documents that can be presented to demonstrate the identity of the applicant in the specific local context (e.g. a birth certificate, a family record book, a document issued by the UNHCR, etc.). These documents may change, depending on the evolution of local practices or local policies, which may make the submission of a specific document easier or harder. The practice of the other Schengen States on which documents are generally accepted is also taken into account.

Form of acts and judgments issued abroad

It is strongly recommended to visit the website of the Belgian diplomatic or consular post or of the local administration, for any information regarding the acts validly establishing the family tie, as well as the form in which an act, judgement or document issued abroad must be presented. 

In general, acts drawn up abroad must be legalised or apostilled by the competent Belgian diplomatic or consular post before the visa application is submitted . 

If they are drawn up in a language other than German, English, French or Dutch, they must be translated by a sworn translator. The sworn translation made abroad must be legalised as a separate document in accordance to the procedure laid down in the country of origin, then by the competent Belgian diplomatic or consular post.

Visa application processing time

The processing time for examining a visa application varies according to the nationality and status of the person opening the right to family reunification (hereinafter: the sponsor).

The sponsor is a Belgian citizen :

The decision must be taken within 6 months from the date of submission of the visa application.

The sponsor is a third-country national granted permission or authorisation to reside in Belgium for a limited or unlimited period :

The diplomatic or consular post will issue a certificate of deposit (annex 15 quinquies ) to the applicant who submits a complete file, i.e. a file that, in principle, contains proof that all the conditions for family reunification have been met, in the required form.

The date indicated on annex 15 quinquies is the starting point for the 9-month period within which the Immigration Office must take a decision. The Immigration Office may extend this 9‑month period by 3 months, twice (9 months + 1 or 2 x 3 months). In this case, the applicant is informed by the diplomatic or consular post.

The sponsor is a highly qualified worker (H card):

The date indicated on annex 15 quinquies is the starting point for the 4-month period within which the Immigration Office must take a decision. The Immigration Office may extend this 4‑month period by 3 months, once (4 months + 1 x 3 months). In this case, the applicant is informed by the diplomatic or consular post.

The sponsor has long-term resident status in another EU country :

Good to know: in general, the Immigration Office also takes a decision within the time limits indicated above when the applicant has submitted an incomplete file and the diplomatic or consular post has not issued an acknowledgement of receipt (annex 15quinquies).

Updating a file

Any change in the personal situation of the applicant or the sponsor after the submission of the visa application must be immediately communicated to the Post and the Immigration Office (Family Reunification Department), by e-mail, at the address gh.visa[at]ibz.fgov.be.

Examples: disability due to a work accident, sick leave, a change of employer, a change of address of the sponsor.

If the conditions for family reunification are met, the Immigration Office will instruct the diplomatic or consular post to issue the applicant a  D visa valid for 12 months.  ( Type D visa ).

This decision is valid for 6 months.

Travel is authorised from the date indicated on the visa after " from " and at the latest until the date indicated after " to ".   

Useful information: the national entry [B + number] in the 'Remarks' area of the visa D provides information on the conditions for staying and the documents to be presented along with the initial application for renewal of the residence card. This card will be issued upon presentation of the visa D.  Read more: National entries (visa D)

Useful information: : in some cases, the diplomatic or consular post is authorised to issue the visa itself when the conditions for family reunification are met. This is particularly the case in the context of family reunification with a Belgian national (article 40ter) or, under certain conditions, when the sponsor holds a single permit. 

The decision to refuse the visa is always taken by the Immigration Office. 

The applicant may submit a new application that takes into account the reasons why their initial application was denied.

They can also file an appeal against this decision with the Aliens Litigation Council.

In certain cases, they can ask the Immigration Office to review the decision.

Refusal subject to DNA test

When the documents presented are not sufficient to establish kinship, the Immigration Office will generally refuse the application " subject to a DNA test ".

This allows the applicant to prove kinship with a DNA test .

If the other conditions for family reunification are met, the visa may be issued based on the positive result of this test.

For more information: DNA test

Residence conditions and renewal of a residence permit

Within 8 days of arrival in Belgium, the visa holder must report to the local authorities in the place where he or she is staying.

If the residence inquiry is positive, the visa holder receives a residence permit (carte A or F).   

A national entry (B + number) will be applied to the visa, after " Remarks ".

This entry  informs the foreigner about the conditions of his stay in Belgium and the conditions for renewing his residence permit.

For more information: National entries (visa D)

Visa for Belgium

• Last updated on July 27, 2023

Information on the GDPR

• General Data Protection Regulation. Information to be provided to applicants concerning the processing of personal data in the Visa Information System (VIS) provided upon short-stay visa applications
• Privacy statement. Processing of personal data in the context of a visa application
• Where, when, and how can you submit a visa application?
• How much is the visa fee?
• Required documents
• Legalization of documents, accredited translators, certified doctors, insurance companies
• Checking the status of your visa application

1. Where, when, and how can you submit a visa application?

Before applying, please ensure that Belgium is your main destination and that you are very clear on your purpose of travel. Read carefully our chapter on  WHICH VISA .

You will first fill in your electronic application form on this  official website

Once you have printed and signed this form and gathered the documents in support of your application, you will make an appointment with the Belgian Visa Application Center in Manila. For this, please follow the instructions given on the  website of VFS

The last step is to lodge personally the visa application at the Belgian VAC and eventually come for an interview at the Embassy. Mandatory interviews for visas of cohabitation / in view of marriage and family reunion will generally take place on the day after the submission of the file. For other visas where an interview is eventually required, applicants will be informed by VFS of a possible date.

Holders of a diplomatic passport, family members of non-Belgian EU nationals and family members of Belgian citizens who exercise their right to free movement (please read more on this topic via: The sponsor is a national of an EU or associated country | IBZ ) , Humanitarian, and “substantiated emergencies” can submit their visa application directly at the Embassy. Appointments can only be made via our  e-Appointment system .

  2. How much is the visa fee?

As of 02 February 2020 the Schengen visa fee per person (Short Stay Visa) has increased from 60 to 80 euros. For a long-term stay (visa D), the visa fee is 180 euros.

The  visa fee  is paid in pesos as per the exchange rate communicated by the Embassy of Belgium in Manila. The same is subject to change without notice. The visa fee is non-refundable.

An additional contribution to be paid in Belgium is required for the processing of some visa D applications, in which case you will be requested to submit proof of payment of this additional contribution as a part of your visa application. If you are unable to do so at the time of the submission of your application, the application will be considered inadmissible.

For amounts and rates, kindly refer yourself to the updated  consular taxes .

Applicants submitting their files at the Belgian VAC shall be levied  service fees from VFS  payable together with the visa fees. Applicants that are exempt from the visa fees are not exempt from paying these service fees.

  3.  Required documents

You will find all conditions on the FPS Home Affairs - Immigration Office website, the only competent authority for the admittance, stay, residence, and removal of foreigners. Click  here  for information in French, and  here  for information in Dutch.

For personalized information in English, click here below:

I. SHORT STAY

• Visa for Tourism (visa C) (PDF, 212.24 KB)
• Visa for Family Visit or Private Invitation (visa C) (PDF, 293.61 KB)
• Visa for Business, cultural or sports event, official purpose (visa C) (PDF, 294.23 KB)
• Visa for Student (visa C) (PDF, 296.75 KB)
• Visa for Seafarers (visa C) (PDF, 253.21 KB)

II. LONG STAY

• Visa for Family Reunion with Belgian spouse (visa D) (PDF, 126.35 KB)
• Visa for Family reunion with NON-EU Spouse (visa D) (PDF, 180.73 KB)
• Visa for Family reunion for children with one Belgian parent (visa D) (PDF, 185.56 KB)
• Visa for Family reunion for children with NON-EU parent (visa D) (PDF, 131.4 KB)
• Visa with a work permit (visa D) (PDF, 271.9 KB)
• Visa for Au Pair (visa D) (PDF, 105.99 KB)
• Visa for Student (visa D) (PDF, 201.46 KB)
• Visa for Cohabitation (visa D) (PDF, 219.99 KB)
• Visa for Marriage (visa D) (PDF, 163.63 KB)

III. DIRECTIVE 2004/38/EC

• Visa for Family members of EU Citizens (visa C) (PDF, 215.97 KB)

Please note that the Embassy may always request additional documents during the examination of an application that are not mentioned in the above lists. You are hereby informed that submitting the above-mentioned documents does not guarantee the automatic issuance of a visa.

  4. Legalization of documents, accredited translators, certified doctors, insurance companies

• General information on the legalization of documents
• General information on accredited translators of the Belgian Embassy
• General information on medical certificates and a list of accredited clinics of the Embassy of Belgium (PDF, 133.05 KB)
• General information on accredited Schengen Travel Insurances Companies (PDF, 110.69 KB)

5. Checking the status of your visa application 

The Embassy must sometimes submit your visa application to the Immigration Office of the Federal Public Service Home Affairs for further decision. It is the only competent authority with regards to the admittance, the stay, the residence, and the removal of foreigners from Belgian territory.

In such a case, your file number will be communicated to you upon the submission of your file to the Immigration Office. From this stage onwards, the Immigration Office is the only authority to contact, if you wish to know the status of your application.

With the file number you can inquire about the status of your application:

By telephone: + 32 2 793 80 00  Email:  [email protected] By fax: + 32 2 274 66 91

Using this number, you can also check the status of your visa application on the  Immigration Office website

You can also track your visa application on the  Belgian website of VFS

You will anyway be informed once a decision has been taken regarding your visa application.

Should you still have questions  on visa procedures  after reading carefully this entire website, please contact us:

• Email:  [email protected]

Should you need information or details  on your visa application , you may contact VFS:

• Email:  [email protected]   
• Tel: +63 2 8528-2531

Contact our Embassy in Manila

Contact details, opening hours, closing days and access map of our Embassy in Manila.

© 2024 FPS Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation

Visa for Belgium if you live in India

How to apply for a visa for Belgium if you live in India.

• Last updated on March 11, 2024

Where, when and how can you submit a visa application?

How much is the handling fee (cost for processing your visa application), required documents, checking the status of your visa application.

• Medical certificate - Certified doctors

New procedure work permit

Since 01/01/2019 the double procedure of an application for a work permit and for a residence permit has been replaced by a single procedure for a unique permit .

New Online Visa Application Procedure  as from 25/01/2017

The visa application forms (short stay and long stay) have to be filled out online and submitted electronically to the VFS Visa Application Center (VAC)

You can find more details at www.visaonweb.diplomatie.be

Procedure to be followed:

• The applicant / head of family has to create an account at the following address:  https://visaonweb.diplomatie.be/  
• Fill out and send the electronic visa application form from this website 
• The applicant will receive then a copy of the visa application form at the email address mentioned in his account. 
• Please print the form and go to the Visa Application Center you have chosen in your application. Make sure to bring the required supporting documents and the visa &service fees. 
• At the visa application center, your picture will be taken live (for all applicants – short stay AND long stay). The fingerprints will be taken only for the short and long stay visas if it’s required. 
• Your visa application will be processed, as usual, at the Belgian Embassy/Consulate General 
• https://dofi.ibz.be/en (Status of your application)
• Belgian Ministry of Interior:  ODE - FR  or  DVZ - NL Please type the visa application’s file number obtained at the Belgian Embassy - request to be done at the following email address:  [email protected] , please don’t forget to clearly mention your exact last and first name as mentioned on your passport + your date of birth + passport number.

Please note that:

• The account you have created can be used later for further applications.
• From this account, you can complete and send different visa application’s forms (for all the members of your family, for example).
• The visa application form you have created electronically is valid for 30 days. If during that time, you haven’t been at the Visa Application Center to confirm your application, your visa application form will be deleted.

Find all details about Belgian Visa Application Centers in India  on the VFS website.

With the new visa code applicable from 2nd February 2020 only holders of official passports, family members of EU citizens and VIPs with an appointment from the Embassy or the Consulate of Belgium can apply directly at the Embassy or the Consulate instead of at the VAC. The decision whether an applicant is to be considered a VIP or not, rests entirely in the hands of the concerned Belgian mission.  

The  handling fee  is paid in Indian Rupees is as per the exchange rate communicated by the Embassy of Belgium in New Delhi. The same is subject to change without notice. The visa fee is non-refundable.

The handling fee for a short term stay visa (C) is 80 euro , except for children between 6 and 12 years old, which is 40 euro and children up to 6 years old, which is free .

For a long term stay visa (D) the handling fee is 180 euro .

An  additional contribution  is required for the processing of certain visa D applications.   

Important news

The amounts of the administrative fees are regularly updated. The latest updated amounts can be found on the following websites :

• in French ;
• in English .

The applicant must present  proof of full payment  of the fee at the time of application. If this evidence is not presented, the application is not admissible and it is not processed.

The fee will not be refunded if the application for a D visa or residence is refused.

Applicants submitting their files at the Belgian VAC shall be levied a  service fee  of INR 2263/- (inclusive of taxes). Applicants that are exempt from the visa fee are not exempt from paying this service fee.  

For more information on the documents to submit with your visa application, please click on the type of visa you need in the list below. This list replaces the English language pages of the website of the FPS Home Affairs Immigration Office, which is under construction. We thank you for your understanding.

Visa C for business pdf 179.61 kB

Visa C for tourism pdf 172.4 kB

Visa C for family or private visit pdf 175.75 kB

Visa C D Return visa.pdf pdf 138.99 kB

Directive 2004/38/EC on the right of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States pdf 124.73 kB

Visa D work unique permit pdf 32.88 kB

Visa C D work (more than 90 days) other than unique permit pdf 134.2 kB

Visa D for students pdf 124.21 kB

Visa D for cohabitation in Belgium.pdf pdf 137.17 kB

Visa D for marriage in Belgium.pdf pdf 135.64 kB

Visa D for family reunion with Belgian spouse (art. 40ter) pdf 168.3 kB

Visa D for family reunion with non-EU spouse (art. 10&10bis) pdf 173.26 kB

Visa D for family reunion for father or mother with Belgian minor (art. 40ter) pdf 127.01 kB

Visa D for family reunion for children with a Belgian parent pdf 173.1 kB

Visa D for family reunion for children with non-EU parent living in Belgium (art. 10&10bis) pdf 169.37 kB

Use of language in administrative matters pdf 29.97 kB

According to the type of long stay visa (D visa) you require, you might have to present a medical certificate you can obtain via one of the doctors certified by the Embassy of Belgium. See below point 5 for details.

Official documents issued by public authorities (marriage, birth, and death certificates, or diplomas, police clearance certificates and affidavits) have to be legalized before the submission in a visa file. Click here for all details on legalizations .

If those documents are not directly written in English, they have to be translated by a sworn translator in one of the Belgian national language. Click here for all details on translations . 

Short stay visa (max. 90 days)

Attention, guarantees for return (assessment of migration risk): the applicant is requested to provide as much information as possible to document his/her family background, professional and socio-economic status, ownership of land or real estate (for instance : proof of family bonds with his/her country of origin, proof of regular income and stable source of revenues from the applicant and/or his/her partner, proof of property, etc.)

This information is essential to correctly judge the intention of the applicant to leave the Schengen area before the expiry of his/her visa.

Since May 2020 a harmonized list of supporting documents is imposed to persons who are subject to visa (C) requirement and are residing in India. This list is the result of an Implementing Decision of the European Commission.  Read here important information on Schengen visa applications in India and specific details on Indian passports validity Schengen Common Information.  In addition, you can consult a general Q&A developed by the European Commission.

List of supporting documents to be submitted by applicants for short stay visas in India pdf 243.08 kB

New EU visa rules – Questions and Answers docx 73.85 kB

Schengen Common Information Sheet (April 2024).pdf pdf 493.31 kB

The overseas travel medical insurance required for short stay visa (C visa) and valid for all Schengen-countries has to cover the applicant for at least 30000 Euros or equivalent, for all risks e.g. accident, illness, medical emergency evacuation, repatriation of mortals remains etc. The policy has to clearly specify the period of validity and has to cover the entire duration of the trip including the date of arrival & departure. Please click on the following link for the approved list of insurance companies in India.

Approved TMI Companies list Mar 2024.pdf pdf 672.14 kB

Please note that the Travel Insurance policy needs to be duly signed by the applicant before submitting the same with the application. 

Biometry - Visa Information System

All Schengen visa applicants must appear in person, except for children younger than 12,  to have their 10 fingerprints and their photograph registered. These data are stored for 59 months in the VIS. In case you have already submitted your fingerprints for a previous Schengen visa application in the last 59 months, you are not required to submit them again. However, If you are uncertain whether your fingerprints have been captured for a Schengen visa within the last 59 months, you are advised to appear in person. Kindly note that, if it would appear that the fingerprints prove not to be present in the VIS system, you will be asked to reappear in person for new biometric data collection.The fingerprint registration procedure only takes a few minutes and identifies you with certainty as the sole licensee of the visa. It protects you against falsification or abuse of your identity (for instance, if your passport is stolen) and optimizes the border crossing. For more extensive information, we refer you to the  European Union website   and the VFS website

Long stay visa (more than 90 days)

NEW PROCEDURE WORK PERMIT : Since 01/01/2019 the double procedure of an application for a work permit and for a residence permit has been replaced by a single procedure for a unique permit.

According to the type of long stay visa (D visa) you require, you might have to present a medical certificate you can obtain via one of the doctors certified by the Embassy / Consulate General of Belgium. See below point 5 for details.

Official documents issued by public authorities (marriage, birth, and death certificates, or diplomas, police clearance certificates and affidavits) have to be legalized before the submission in a visa file. Click here for all details on  legalizations .

If those documents are not directly redacted in English, they have to be translated by a sworn translator in one of the Belgian national language. Click here for all details on  translations .    

Belgian embassies and consulates general must submit certain visa applications to the Immigration Office of the Federal Public Service Home Affairs for a final decision. It is the only competent authority with regards to the admittance, stay, residence and removal of foreigners from Belgian territory.

In such a case, your file number will be communicated to you by the embassy or consulate general upon the submission of your file to the Immigration Office. From this stage onwards, the Immigration Office is the only authority to contact, if you wish to know the status of your application.

With the file number you can inquire about the status of your application (Boulevard Pacheco 44, 1000 Brussels, T: +32.2.793.80.00,  [email protected] ). Using this number, you can also check the status of your visa application on the  Immigration Office website

With your passport number and last name, you can also track your visa application on the Belgian website of VFS

Once a decision has been taken, The Belgian Embassy or Consulate general will inform you personally.  

Medical certificate and certified doctors

​ If you need a medical certificate we invite you to contact one of the doctors from the list below.  

Dr. Rajiv BHALLA  Dente, 14, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi  T: +91 98111 57759 / +91 98114 44469 E:  [email protected]  

Dr. Rajiv KOHLI  Dr. Ved Prakash Kohli Medical Center  A-23 Ground Floor, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016  T: +91 11 4022 4399 / +91 11 4022 4299  M: +91 98102 82553 E: [email protected] , [email protected]  

Dr. Subhankar CHAKRABARTI, MBBS (Cal)  New Sab's Clinic AE-34/1, Subhash Abasan, Beside UBI, Kestopur, Kolkata 700 101  T: +91 33 2591 0801 M: +91 98310 68040  Opening hours: In the morning from 10:30 to 11:30 and in the evening from 18:00 to 19:30. Sunday closed.

Dr. M. M. MERANEY and Dr. Rohit BARMAN  (Dr. Usha Lulla TALVADKAR replaces Dr. M. M. MERANEY in his absence)  (Dr. Meenal SHAH replaces Dr. Rohit BARMAN in his absence)  Breach Candy Hospital and Research Centre  60 Bhulabhai Desai Road, Mumbai 400 026  T: +91 22 2366 7800 / +91 22 2366 7860 (Dr. M. M. MERANEY) T: +91 22 2366 7800 / +91 22 2351 7675 (Dr. R. BARMAN) W: https://www.breachcandyhospital.org/index.php/departments1/belgium-visa

Dr. K.S. CHANDRAMOULI / Dr. G.D. RAVINDRAN / Dr. Jyothi IDDICULLA / Dr. Seena SANKAR / Dr. Ratnamalla CHOUDHURY / Dr. Soumya UMESH / Dr. Geetha Ann FRANCIS / Dr. Anusuya D S /  Dr. Abdul Mateen ATHAR /  Dr. Jonita Evett FURTADO / Dr. Shruti KULKARNI / Dr. THENMOZHI / Dr. Mary GEORGE K / Dr. Savitha Anne SEBASTIAN Dr. Sanjiv LEWIN / Dr. Fulton DSOUZA / Dr. Ranjini SRINIVASAN / Dr. Sushma K / Dr. Nelia MATHEW / Dr. ARCHANA / Dr. Saurav JAIN / Dr. Jainy N.J. (for applicants aged 15 years or less)

St. John’s Medical College Hospital  St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences  John Nagar, Bengaluru 560 034  T: +91 80 2206 5078 / +91 80 2206 5000 E:  [email protected] , [email protected] , [email protected]

Dr. Shalini Chandan Dr. Rudrappa Hospital  5, Raja Ram Mohan Roy Cross Road, near Richmond Circle Bengaluru 560025 T: +91 91485 08009 / +91 98440 92922 W: www.rudrappahospital.com

Dr. B D SHASHIDAR Republic Hospital No. 5 Langford Gardens, Bengaluru 560 025 T: + 91 80 4124 5450 Consultation Time: In the morning from 10.30 to 12:00 and in the evening from 17.30 to 19.00

Dr. B. Krishna RAU / Dr. Sharon KRISHNA  Billroth Hospital  52, 2nd Main Road, R A Puram, Chennai 600 028  T: +91 44 2464 1111 Extn: 151 (09.00–13.00)  E:  [email protected]

  Hyderabad

Dr. Pramati REDDY / Dr. Indira Reddy RAMASAHAYAM  Apollo Health City  Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad 500 033  T: +91 40 2360 7777  F: +91 40 2360 7530

Dr. Vikram Varma Jampana (General Medicine) Star Hospital Survey No 74, Financial District, Nanakramguda, Hyderabad 500 008 T: +91 40 4477 7777 / 1800 102 7827 (for appointments) E: [email protected] W: financial-district.starhospitals.in

Dr. Shiva RAJU Kims Secunderabad 1-8-31/1, Minister Rd, Krishna Nagar Colony, Begumpet, Secunderabad 500 003 T: +91 40 4488 5000 / +91 40 4488 5184 F: +91 40 2784 0980 E: [email protected] W: www.kimshospitals.com/secunderabad/

Dr. P.K. GRANT, Dr. Nirmala CASTELLINO, Dr. Neelima LIMAYE  Ruby Hall Clinic  40, Sassoon Road, Pune 411 001  T: +91 20 2612 3391 / +91 20 6645 5100  F: +91 20 2612 4529 

  Ernakulam

Dr. Paul PUTHURAN, Dr. Sunu KURIAN, Dr. Abraham P GEORGE, Dr. Joison ABRAHAM, Dr. Puthussery Sumesh CHACKO, Dr. Sr. Romia RODRIGUEZ (General Medicine) DR. Resmi. S. KAIMAL (Family Medicine) DR. Shaju Cheringal SADANANDAN (Preventive Health Check-up) Lourdes Hospital Post Graduate Institute of Medical Science and Research Pachalam, Ernakulam 682 012 T: +91 484 4123 456 / +91 484 3515 800 E:   [email protected] , [email protected] W: www.lourdeshospital.in  

Should you still have questions  on visa procedures  after reading carefully this entire website, please contact the Embassy / Consulate General of Belgium at [email protected] or [email protected]

Should you need information or details  on your visa application , you may contact us via VFS : 

• For applications from West India and South India at the Consulate General in Mumbai:  (Monday-Friday except Consulate holidays)  Tel.: (+91) (022) 6786 6036 between 08:00 to 17:00  Email: [email protected]    
• For applications from North India and East India at the Embassy in New Delhi:  (Monday-Friday except Embassy holidays)  Tel.: (+91) (022) 6176 6920 between 08:00 to 17:00  Email: [email protected]  

Visa for Belgium

All information on applying for a visa to Belgium.

Quick links

• Addresses and opening hours
• Passport application
• Visa application

Other links

Immigration Office How do I become Belgian? About Belgium 365.be Business in Belgium Coming2Belgium

© 2024 FPS Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation