belgium tourist visa for turkey

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It is highly recommended that foreigners, who wish to visit Türkiye, should read the related information about our country’s visa regime. Visa regime for Touristic and Business Purposed visit of a country may differ from Work and Education Purposed visit. Also Türkiye’s visa regime may change according to reciprocity principle. While some applicants may be exempt from visa for their touristic or business visit to Türkiye, the others can obtain an e-Visa. All other applicants will need to obtain a visa through Turkish Representations in the abroad. An information note about visa regime of Türkiye is available in the following address: www.mfa.gov.tr Visa types granted by Türkiye are; 1- TOURIST/BUSINESSPERSON a) Touristic Visit b) Single Transit c) Double Transit d) Business Meeting/Commerce e) Conference/Seminar/Meeting f) Festival/Fair/Exhibition g) Sportive Activity h) Cultural Artistic Activity i) Official Visit j) Visit to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus 2- OFFICIAL VISA a) Assigned for duty b) Courier 3- STUDENT – EDUCATION VISA a) Internship Visa b) Internship ERASMUS c) Internship AISEC d) Turkish Language Course Purpose e) Course Purpose f) Education Purpose g) Education in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus 4- WORKING VISA a) Employment Purpose/Special Employment Purpose b) Assigned Lecturers/Academics c) Assigned Sportsperson d) Assigned Artists e) Assigned Free Zone Workers f) Assigned Journalists g) Montage and Repairman Purposes 5- OTHER VISAS a) Archaeological Excavation, Exploration Purpose b) Documentary Purpose c) Tour Operator Representative d) Medical Treatment Purposes e) Accompaniment Purpose f) Family Unification Purpose g) Freight Vısa h) Seafarer Visa PASSPORT VALIDITY In accordance with the article 7.1b of “the Law on Foreigners and International Protection” no.6458, foreigners wishing to enter Türkiye should carry a travel document (passport) with an expiration date at least 60 days beyond the “duration of stay” of their visa, e-Visa, visa exemption, or residence permit. Example A: In order to enter Türkiye having a visa with 90 days “duration of stay”, foreigners should hold a travel document valid at least for an additional 60 days which totals to 150 days (90 days + 60 days) of validity at the time of entrance. Example B: In order to enter Türkiye having a visa with 30 days “duration of stay”, foreigners should hold a travel document valid at least for an additional 60 days which totals to 90 days (30 days + 60 days) of validity at the time of entrance." In accordance with international agreements and special legal provisions, the following categories are exempted from this provision: a) Citizens of countries who are allowed to enter Türkiye with their national ID’s in accordance with “European Agreement on Regulations governing the Movement of Persons between Member States of the Council of Europe”; 1- Germany 2- Belgium 3- France 4- Georgia 5- The Netherlands 6- Spain 7- Switzerland 8- İtaly 9- Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus 10- Liechtenstein 11- Luxembourg 12- Malta 13- Portugal 14- Greece b) Citizens of countries holding passports which are expired but considered as valid for a certain period 1. Germany – Passports expired within the last year / ID’s expired within the last year 2. Belgium - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 3. France - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 4. Spain - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 5. Switzerland - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 6. Luxemburg - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 7. Portugal - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 8. Bulgaria – Valid ordinary passport c) Holders of diplomatic, special and official passports GENERAL INFORMATION - Visitors who are not exempt from entry visa must obtain their visas or schedule an appointment with the Turkish Consular offices via Pre-Application System for Turkish Sticker Visa ( www.visa.gov.tr ). The applicants who meet the requirements will be directed by the Pre-Application System for Turkish Sticker Visa to the e-Visa system ( www.evisa.gov.tr ) In those countries where Türkiye does not have a consular representation can also use online scheduling for appointments with the nearest accredited consular office of Türkiye. - In order to avoid inconveniences that may be caused by delays in processing, it is recommended to apply for visas at least one month in advance before the planned travel. - The visas submitted to foreigners do not guarantee absolute rights of entry to Türkiye. - Visa fees are not refundable in cases where applications are rejected - All applicants are required to have a medical insurance that will be valid during their stay in Türkiye. - The length of stay provided by visa or visa exemption cannot exceed 90 days within each 180 days. The regulation of 90 days of stay within the last 180 days is binding for all foreigners that will travel to Türkiye. - It is not possible for foreigners holding two passports to stay in Türkiye for 90 days each with their two different passports within the last 180 days. - In all types of visa applications, Turkish consular offices may issue visas with a maximum duration of stay of 90 days. The foreigners who wish to stay longer than 90 days in Türkiye, should apply for “Short Term Residence Permit” at the Provincial Directorate of Migration Administration in order to extend their residence. - The residence permit of the foreigners will be cancelled if they stay outside Türkiye for longer than 120 days in total during the last year. - For United Nations (UN) Travel Document (Laissez-Passer) holders who have blue UN travel documents, visa exemption with 90 days length of stay within the preceding 180 days may apply during their official visit to Türkiye if they can certify their official assignment. Red UN Travel Document holders, shall be exempt from entry visa and may stay in Türkiye 90 days within the preceding 180 days regardless of their purpose of visit. General visa provisions shall apply for Blue UN travel document holders subject to regulations specified according to their country of origin. - Visa applications for travels except for touristic or trade purposes (work or study etc.) will need to obtain visa through Turkish Representations in the abroad. - Regardless of the visa regime applied towards the citizens of a country, the travel document holders of that country need to obtain visa from Turkish missions beforehand. - Any applicant under the age of 18 must submit official written approvals from both parents. For those applicants who certify that their parents are officially divorced and prove the parent holding their custody as well as for those with one parent deceased, visas may be issued in accordance with their purpose of visit. - The authorization of processing the residence permit applications submitted by the following persons who enter Türkiye availing visa-free regime and without requirement of obtainment of Student Visas lays with Local Immigration Offices (Provincial Directorates of Migration): Foreigners who arrive in Türkiye upon invitations by universities under Turkish Higher Education Board to study at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate, Ph. D levels pursuant to international student exchange programs, cultural programs as well as under EU Education and Youth Programs. - For foreigners wishing to enter Türkiye via naval ports with touristic purposes, visa-free entry permits may be issued by the local governorates. These permits shall have a maximum 72 hours duration of stay and will be only valid for sightseeing purposes in the vicinity of naval ports where they entered the country. This practice, as it intends to facilitate entry for those visitors subject to visa, does not entitle visitors to visa. Passports of these visitors are not retained by the border authorities; however, visitors are given "Harbor City Entry Permit" which is required to be returned to the authorities upon their exits. - Any piece of data submitted here may be processed and stored in database accessible to the relevant Turkish authorities in accordance with their respective mandates. Tourist Visa - If an invitation letter is submitted for a Touristic Visa application, it must include the inviting person's TR Identity Number, clear identity, the list of invitees, permanent address, contact number, length and purpose of stay and the affinity with the applicant must be stated in the letter. If the inviting side is an organization or a company, tax registration certificate of the organization will be required. In the invitation letter it is also required for the inviting person/authority to pledge for covering victuals and accommodation expenses and for taking their own responsibility. The applicant is required to have sufficient and/or regular remunerations. Working Visa: - Foreigners lay their applications for work permit through our consular offices in the country of their residence or nationality. - To work in Türkiye, you must apply to the nearest Turkish mission to obtain work permit and visa. Your passport, visa application form and a letter from your employer are the necessary documents for your application. Other documents should be submitted to the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MLSS) by your employer within ten working days after your application. - Work Permit Applications are concluded positively or negatively by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. Work Permits have equivalence to residence permits. Thus, should a working permit is approved by the Ministry, the foreigner is charged an Entry Visa Fee, Work Permit Certificate Fee and Residence Fee by the Turkish consular offices. Since Work Permit Card substitute residence permit in Türkiye, "Work Annotated Visa" issued by these offices can only be used for entrance and for 90 days at maximum. - You may find the list of those documents in the MLSS’s website ( http://www.csgb.gov.tr ). Applications are finalized by the MLSS within thirty days at the latest. Right after your arrival in Türkiye (before starting to work), you should be registered at the local police department within one month to obtain the necessary residence permit. - Work permit is granted to foreigners who will work in Free Zones in our country by the Ministry of Economy, to those to work in units under Ministry of Culture and Tourism by the mentioned Ministry and to foreign national personnel to work in universities by the Higher Education Board. Internship Visa / Work Permit Exemption: - Applicants need to obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security pursuant to the Law numbered 4817 for private internship applications outside the provisions set forth in the Article 55 "Work Permit Exemption" title of Law Enforcement Regulation about Working Permits of Foreigners. - Article 55 of the Law Enforcement Regulation on Working Permits of Foreigners no. 4817 regulating working permit exemptions, the extent and the lengths of time the foreigners are exempt from working permit are stated. Those who meet the requirements below do not need to obtain a work permit. (1) Without prejudice to the provisions set out in specific laws and on condition that the foreigner and the employer fulfill their obligations resulting from other laws; a) The persons exempted from work visa under the bilateral or multilateral agreements to which Türkiye is a signatory party, b) the foreigners holding permanent residences abroad and wishing to visit Türkiye temporarily with purposes of scientific studies, cultural and artistic activities for a period shorter than a month and with the aim of sporting activities for a period less than four months, c) For the purpose of installation, maintenance and repair of machinery and equipment imported to Türkiye, providing training for their utilization or transporting of defective equipment from Türkiye and provided that they do not exceed the total stay of three months within a year as of the date of entry into Türkiye and verify this condition with the documents that they will submit, the ones coming to Türkiye, ç) For the purpose of training in the use of goods and services exported from or imported to Türkiye and provided that they do not exceed three months totally within a year as of the date of entry into Türkiye and verify this condition thanks to the documents that they will submit, the ones in Türkiye d) Being an entertainer, performer and etc. in charge at fair and circuses which are going to carry out activities outside the borders of certificated tourism establishments and provided that they do not exceed six months as of the date of entry into Türkiye and verify this condition with the documents that they will submit, the ones in Türkiye e) On condition that it does not exceed two years and it will be limited to the period of study, the foreigners coming to state institutions and organizations together with the universities so as to enhance their information and good manners by verifying their state via the documents that they will submit, f) Persons who notified the Turkish authorities on the fact that they will provide important services and contributions socio-cultural and technological fields and educational fields within a period not exceeding six months. g) Persons visiting Türkiye under the programs of the Center for European Union Education and Youth Programs (National Agency), ğ) The foreigners to go on a training under the framework of international trainee programs sanctioned by the Higher Education Board, the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. h) The foreigners who are the representatives of tour operators coming to Türkiye on condition that the term of contract does not exceed eight months, ı) During the contracts of other athletes, trainers, football players whose requests are approved by Turkish Football Federation or General Directorate of Youth and Sports i) By the bilateral protocols signed under the Rule no. I/10 of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, the foreign seafarers serving on vessels which have received " Conformity Approval Certificate" from the related administration and is registered in Turkish International Ship Registry Law and operate outside the cabotage line, j) Foreign experts employed in the projects that are conducted within the scope of Türkiye-European Union Financial Cooperation Programs are not in need of obtaining a work visa during their term of office. - Within the scope of article 55, residence permits of the foreigners coming to Türkiye are given as “Short Term" residence permits by Provincial Directorate of Migration Administration. Exemption periods cannot be extended, the foreigners under this provision can make use of exemption rules only once within one calendar year. However, it is required that it must have been three months as of the expiry date of the residence permit granted to the foreigner with the same purpose in order to exercise this right. In case of the need of working longer than the exemption period allows, the foreigner has to obtain a work visa through the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. Tour Operator Representative Visa - The foreign representatives of tour operators, are exempted from obtaining a work visa for their duties for up to eight months. The applications of the foreigners asking for a residence permit from Provincial Directorate of Migration as the representatives of tour operators are processed under rules regulating touristic visits. Transportation Visa - The foreigners applying for visa for transportation may be given a multiple entry visa valid for one year in case they submit the required documents. - Visa regime for truck drivers of a country may differ from the overall visa regime effective for citizens of that particular country. For further information, please contact the nearest Turkish mission. The Personnel Assigned for Foreign Religious Foundations - The personnel employed officially in foreign religious foundations in Türkiye - Work permits of the foreigners employed in religious foundations are under the framework of exceptional condition. Applications of permission are made via our Ministry and residence permits are issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs so that they can work in our country. Archaeological Excavation, Exploration, Documentary Purpose Visas - Foreigners who will shoot a documentary film conduct a research or an archeological excavation should get a special permission from the Turkish authorities in advance. - It is necessary that the one should enter Türkiye by obtaining a relevant visa via our foreign representatives for excavation and research. - The foreigners to come to our country for the purpose of movie and documentary shooting should obtain a permit document from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Directorate General of Cinema and the provincial Governorate. - One can directly apply to the related institutions for scientific researches, sound track recording, filming documentaries and movies, photo shooting to be carried out on archeological, historical, geological, sociological and natural issues in Türkiye, on land, in the air, at sea, at river and at lake. Applications on surface explorations to be made on the land registry cadaster records with archaeological excavations and underwater archaeological researches apart from these are made to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via the applicant's own diplomatic mission in Türkiye and to the Ministry via Turkish foreign representatives abroad on the other hand.

Travelling in Türkiye

Visa for turkey.

• Last updated on May 5, 2023

As of 2 March 2020, Belgian citizens are exempted from visa requirements for touristic travels to Turkey of 90 days within a 180 day period.

For long stay visas you have address the Turkish embassies and consulates in Belgium.

The Belgian embassies and consulates are not authorized to issue visas for Turkey.

For further information on Turkish visa, please consult the website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs

All the useful information if you are travelling to Türkiye.

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Rules of entry and stay

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• electronic visa for tourist purposes;
• mark (sticker) in the passport document.
• Tourist visit;
• Business meeting/Commerce;
• If you plan to attend a conference, seminar, meeting, or other similar activity in Türkiye;
• If you want to participate in a fair, festival, exhibition, etc.;
• If you want to travel to Türkiye to attend sporting events as an athlete or fan;
• If you plan to be part of cultural or artistic activity;
• Official visit. When traveling to Türkiye as part of an official delegation representing the government or other public institutions of your country.
• Check when to apply;
• Find out where to apply;
• Fill out the online application for a Turkish tourist visa;
• Prepare the necessary documents;
• Attend an interview.
• A completed application form for a Turkish tourist visa;
• Your valid passport or another travel document;
• Two photos in accordance with Turkish visa requirements;
• Certificate of income or savings. You must prove that you have enough money to support yourself for the duration of your stay in Türkiye. You must present a minimum amount of 50 euros for each day you plan to spend in Türkiye. This can be done with recent bank statements, a letter of support from another person, etc.;
• Travel insurance. To travel to Türkiye, you must have travel health insurance. The insurance must cover the entire territory of Türkiye with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros;
• Travel route. Provide a booked flight from your country to Türkiye and back, a bus ticket, or any other proof that you intended to leave Türkiye;
• Proof of residence. Depending on where you will be staying in Türkiye, you will need to present a document as proof of residence.
• Police clearance certificate. This document must be obtained from the relevant authorities in your country of residence and confirm that you have not been involved in any criminal activity in recent years;
• For group trips, documents about the company that organizes the trip are required;
• Documents about your employment status:
• If you are eligible for an e-Visa, you do not need to go through all of the process described above. It is very easy to get an electronic visa to Türkiye for tourist purposes.
• Complete the online application form on the Turkish eVisa website;
• Confirm your application. Within a few minutes, you should receive an email asking you to confirm that you have started your eVisa application. Click on the link you received, which will take you back to the eVisa application website;
• Pay the fee. You will then need to pay the eVisa application fee;
• Download your e-Visa. You will again receive an email with a link that will take you to the same website where you will need to download your eVisa;
• Print out your e-Visa. A printed version of the e-Visa must be presented at the Turkish port of entry.
• Pass immigration control;
• Stay in Türkiye overnight for a transfer.
• Single transit
• Double transit
• Completed application form for Turkish transit visa, travel insurance, confirmation of professional status, etc.;
• Passport or another travel document;
• Two photos;
• Certificate of income or savings;
• An onward plane ticket that will take you to your destination country;
• A visa or other document that gives the right to enter the country of destination;
• Hotel reservation;
• Certificate of police clearance.

For information and advice on Turkish customs regulations, please visit the official website of the customs administration.

In addition to a valid national driving license in Türkiye, you must obtain an international driving license. An international driver's license gives you the right to drive a car. This rule does not apply to a person holding a British driving license in Türkiye. To rent a car, the minimum age of drivers is 21 years (for some types of cars - 23 years or 27).

Embassies of Türkiye in different countries can be found here:  https://www.mfa.gov.tr/turkish-representations.en.mfa

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• I applied for insurance, but haven’t received the code. What to do? In this case, we advise you to reload the page, clear the cache, change the language on the page, or use another browser.
• What should I do if I haven’t received the policy to the specified mail for more than 30 minutes? Please, contact the hotline and provide the data specified when applying for the insurance.
• I cannot pay for the insurance, what should I do? If your payment fails, we recommend contacting your bank, they often do not trust payment systems. You need to confirm that it is you who are doing the transaction.
• Where can I read the terms and conditions of my insurance contract? You can read about the terms of the insurance contract on our website in the section of the insurance policy registration.
• What if I have purchased a policy but my trip is canceled? Please inform the hotline of the portal about the reasons for the trip cancellation, and we will gladly reschedule your dates

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Belgium Visa Application Center in Istanbul, Turkey

Belgium visa application center in istanbul, turkey address, phone number, location, opening hours, email, apply belgium visa from istanbul, turkey.

Address: Belgium Visa Application Centre, Istanbul Office Address: Cumhuriyet Caddesi 193, 34380 Harbiye, Sisli – Istanbul

Phone: (+90) 212 373 5804

Map: View direction here

Website: http://www.vfsglobal.com/belgium/turkey/

Apply for visa to Belgium in Istanbul, Turkey

Belgium Government Website : https://www.belgium.be/en

Belgium Ministry of Foreign Affairs : https://diplomatie.belgium.be/en

Belgium Visa:

Tourist Visa, Entry Visa, Resident Visa, Transit Visa, Double Entry Visa, Student Visa and more. Click here to read more about documents required for Belgium Visa

Embassy of Belgium in other countries:

Belgium Embassy | Consulate Worldwide

Find Embassies of Belgium , Consulate of Belgium in other countries address, phone number, Email, Belgium Visa , Passport related enquiries and more through the below link.

Embassy of Belgium Worldwide

Consulate of Belgium Worldwide

List of Belgium Visa Application Center

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Belgium - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to  terrorism.

Country Summary : Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Belgium. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting, music, and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Belgium.

If you decide to travel to Belgium:   

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Belgium.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from  the Schengen area . The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not valid for visa-free entry into Belgium.

2 pages minimum

Not required for stays under 90 days

10,000 Euros or equivalent

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy brussels.

27 Boulevard du Régent (the Consular Section is at 25 Boulevard du Régent) B-1000 Brussels Belgium Telephone:  +(32) (2) 811-4000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(32) (0) 2-811-4000 Fax: +(32) (2) 811-4546 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Traveling Through Europe : Belgium is a party to the Schengen Agreement. If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay. If you plan on transiting or visiting a Schengen country review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .

Visit the  Embassy of Belgium  website for the most current visa information.

The Government of Belgium does not recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, as a valid travel document for visa-free entry into Belgium. If traveling on this emergency passport, you may be refused boarding and/or entry by immigration officials. Only direct transit through Belgium for a destination in the United States is permitted with an emergency passport. You should check entry requirements of any other country of destination to make sure the emergency passport is accepted for entry.

HIV/AIDS RESTRICITONS:  The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Belgium.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our website.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad, including possible attacks in Europe. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, rudimentary IEDs, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, concerts, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Parks/festivals
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and airports/scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

• Low-level street crime including robberies, smash and grab car robberies, purse snatchings, stealing electronics, and pickpocketing is common, particularly in major cities, in public areas such as restaurants, the Brussels metro at night, buses/trams, and all train stations. Thieves often operate in teams, by bumping into or shoving the target, especially in crowds. Be alert to distractions.
• Theft from vehicles is common. Always drive with your windows up and the doors locked, as thieves sometimes target cars stopped at traffic lights. Thieves may smash the window and grab valuables. Use parking garages when possible, and if you must use street parking, look for a spot near a street light. Do not leave anything visible on the seats, floor, or dashboard.
• Theft of bags on trains has increased, particularly the Brussels-Amsterdam route. Thieves often target light bags placed overhead. Keep bags with cash, valuables, and travel documents close to you, rather than in the overhead shelf on trains.
• Carry only a minimal amount of cash, credit cards, and necessary personal identification. 
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and watches.

Demonstrations   occur frequently . They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 

• Police routinely monitor protestors and demonstrations.
• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Monitor the  Embassy website for demonstration alerts.  

International Financial Scams: U.S. citizens have lost tens of thousands of dollars in scams in Belgium. See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for more information.

• Common internet scams include confidence schemes, in which friends, family, or others receive a message that a U.S. citizen traveler is stranded in Belgium and in need of funds to pay for customs fees.
• U.S. citizens in the United States who have been victimized by Internet crime should report it to the  Internet Crime Complaint Center .
• Check ATMs or other machines for skimmers or removeable readers. When possible utilize bank ATMs. In bars and restaurants, have the card swiped in front of you and do not let it be taken away.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 101 . For all other emergencies, please dial  112 . Contact the U.S. Embassy at  +(32) (2) 811-4000 . Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

The Belgian Commission for Financial Assistance to Victims of Intentional Acts of Violence  provides financial compensation, under specific circumstances, for victims of crime and for those who have suffered injuries and consequent losses caused by such incidents. The Commission also provides for dependents or immediate family members of homicide victims. For more information, contact the Commission by phone at  32-2-542-7208; 32-2-542-7218; 32-2-542-7224; 32-2-542-7229, or 32-2-542-7244;  by e-mail at  [email protected]  or  [email protected] ; or visit the  Ministry of Justice website  (French and Dutch only).

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passpor

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Belgium.

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Belgium, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different than in the United States.

• Belgian law requires that any  new  building with public or community space must be accessible for persons with disabilities.
• Many existing buildings as well as public transportation systems are less adapted to individuals with disabilities.
• General information on the accessibility of tourist accommodations, public transportation, museums, and other tourist facilities can be found on official tourism sites for Belgium’s three major regions:  Brussels ,  Wallonia , and  Flanders .

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

High-quality medical facilities and services are widely available in Belgium. The large university hospitals can handle most medical problems. Equivalents for most, but not all, U.S. medications are available through local pharmacies with a prescription from a Belgian physician. The responsiveness of emergency services is also generally excellent.

For emergency services in Belgium, dial 112.

Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on overseas insurance coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  Belgian Federal Public Health Service  to ensure the medication is legal in Belgium.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Belgium’s road network is generally well-built and maintained.
• Adequate lighting exists on major highways, but on rural roads it is often insufficient or nonexistent.
• Roadside assistance and information on road conditions are available in English from Touring Mobilis, telephone 02 286-3040. Belgian police will also provide information on road conditions, telephone 02-642-6666.
• Emergency services are efficient and responsive. For police emergencies, dial 101 by phone within Belgium. For all other emergencies, dial 112.

Traffic Laws:

• Traffic coming from the right generally has priority at uncontrolled intersections, even if coming from a smaller street.
• The  maximum speed limit on Belgian highways  is 120 kilometers (72 miles) per hour but is not always posted.
• The  maximum speed in urban areas  is 50 km (30 miles) per hour, but in central Brussels it is 30 km (19 miles) per hour.
• While Belgian authorities strictly  enforce speed limits , many Belgians still drive significantly faster than the posted limit. Claiming ignorance of the speed limit may not prevent you from getting a significant fine for speeding, and your vehicle may be impounded if you can’t pay the fine on the spot. Automated radars with cameras are common and violators are issued citations through the mail.
• Belgian police also conduct  breath analysis checks for alcohol use , particularly at night and during major holidays. The legal limit for operating a motor vehicle is .5 grams of alcohol per liter of blood (.05 percent Blood Alcohol Content).
• You must use your seat belt  while driving in a vehicle.
• Bicycling  is very common in Belgium, for both recreational and more traditional transportation purposes. Wear helmets at all times and follow vehicle travel rules (stopping at lights, crosswalks, etc.). Follow bike paths when available.

Public Transportation:  Brussels and most major cities of Belgium have extensive and efficient public transportation systems. Trains, buses, and ferries connect Brussels with other major cities in Belgium and with the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and The Netherlands. Traveling by train is considered to be safer than driving.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of the  Belgian national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Belgium’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Belgium’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Brussels Airport Delays: Travelers have experienced significant delays at passport control at Brussels airport, during both arrival and departure.  We recommend outbound passengers check with your airline to find out their cutoff time for check-in and seek your airline’s recommendations on how to mitigate potential passport control delays.

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Belgium should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Belgium .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Turkey Visa for Tourists: A Complete Guide

Updated: October 19, 2023

Turkey has a liberal visa policy offering visa exemption and e-visas to many nationalities. A Turkey visa is also quite easy to obtain from the embassy or an authorized agent. 

Turkey has introduced e-Visa to simplify its visa application process and replace its Visa on Arrival. Currently, 30 nationalities can obtain a Turkey e-Visa from the comfort of their homes. 21 nationalities can also obtain an e-Visa if holding a visa or residence permit from any Schengen country, US, UK or Ireland. 

Many nationalities from the African continent that were previously eligible for e-Visas were unfortunately removed from that list recently. They will now have to apply for a Turkey visa through a Turkish mission or an agent. 

Table of Contents

Turkey visa requirements by nationality.

Minimum passport validity to enter Turkey as a tourist

The passport validity is different for different nationalities. It also depends on whether you are visa-exempt or require a visa. 

For nationalities that are visa-exempt, the minimum passport validity required is 60 days beyond your “allowed period of stay” in Turkey. For some, it’s 90 days.

For those who require an e-Visa, VOA or visa from the embassy, the minimum passport validity required is 6 months from the day of arrival. For some, it’s 3 months beyond the validity of their visas.

So in general, you will be fine with 6 months of validity remaining your passport at the time of entering Turkey. 

VISA EXEMPT nationalities

90-day entry (total 90 days within any 180 days).

• Algeria (below 15 or above 65)
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Czech Republic
• El Salvador
• Hungary 
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City

30-day entry (total 90 days within any 180 days)

• Turkmenistan

60-day entry (total 90 days within any 180 days)

30-day entry (total 30 days within any 180 days), visa on arrival eligible nationalities, 90-day, multiple-entry.

• Antigua-Barbuda
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates
• United States

30-day, multiple-entry

E-visa eligible nationalities.

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominican Republic
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• South Africa

30-day, single-entry

• Timor Leste

30-day, single-entry with a US, UK, Ireland or Schengen visa or residence permit

• Afghanistan
• Algeria (below 18 or over 35)
• Egypt (below 20 or 45 years)
• Equatorial Guinea
• Philippines
• Solomon Islands

CONSULAR VISA REQUIRED nationalities

• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Congo, Dem Rep of
• Guinea-Bissau
• Marshall Islands
• North Korea
• Papua New Guinea
• Congo, Rep. of
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Sierra Leone
• South Sudan

Turkey transit visa requirements

Transit visas are NOT REQUIRED for transiting through Turkish international airports. 

If you are not leaving the international transit area, then you do not require a transit visa. But if you have to leave the international transit area, or claim your bags, or change to a different airline, then you would require a transit visa. 

Turkey visa requirements for cruise passengers

A Turkey visa is NOT REQUIRED for cruise passengers for up to 72 hours. 

Cruise visitors are issued a Harbor City Entry Permit that’s valid for 72 hours and limited to the harbor city where the cruise arrived and its surroundings.

TURKEY VISA ON ARRIVAL

Turkey introduced its e-Visa system in 2013 with the intention of phasing out its Visa on Arrival. But VOA is still available and a few countries that are eligible for e-Visa are also eligible for obtaining VOA at international airports in Turkey. 

Even though the e-Visa takes only a few minutes to apply, the VOA fee is considerably lower than the e-Visa fee for certain nationalities. It makes sense to simply get a VOA instead of an e-Visa if you are eligible and the fee is lower. 

Validity of Turkey Visa on Arrival

Visa on Arrival is valid for 90 days, with multiple entries. Total stay cannot be more than 90 days in a 180-day period. 

How long can you stay in Turkey with Visa on Arrival

Turkey Visa on Arrival is valid for 90 days. That means, if you continue to stay in Turkey after you have obtained your Visa on Arrival, you can stay up to 90 days. But if you leave and come back, you can only stay until your Visa on Arrival expiration date. 

Also, your total stay in Turkey cannot exceed 90 days in any 180-day period. 

• Your arrival date in Turkey is March 10
• You obtained VOA on March 10
• Your visa is valid from 10 March 2022 to 08 June 2022 (90 days)
• After 45 days, on 24 April 2022, you left Turkey. 
• You entered Turkey again on 19 May 2022 using your previous VOA. You can only stay till 08 June 2022, which is 21 days. 

Visa on Arrival application process

The VOA process is quite quick at airports in Turkey. Right before the immigration or passport control, you will see a section called “Visa”. Stop by there and get your visa on arrival. 

For obtaining VOA, all you need is your passport and visa on arrival fee in USD, EUR or GBP. Some nationalities require a passport-size photo.

Documents required

You must present the following documents.

• Passport that’s valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival in Turkey
• Cash in USD, EUR or GBP for visa fee payment

The Visa on Arrival (VOA) fee starts from $30 and goes up all the way to $70 USD depending on nationality. Below is the Visa on Arrival fee for all eligible nationalities. 

Processing time

It usually takes a few minutes for the Visa on Arrival process. But it depends on how busy the Visa on Arrival section is.

TURKEY E-VISA

Turkey introduced its e-Visa portal in 2013 to help visitors obtain visas from the comfort of their homes. Today, 51 countries are eligible for Turkey e-Visa .

Of these 51 countries, 30 nationalities can apply for e-Visa with just their passports. And 21 nationalities can apply for an e-Visa only if holding a US visa , UK visa , Schengen visa or Ireland visa or a residence permit from any of those countries.

E-visa approval is immediate and it only takes 5 minutes to obtain the e-Visa. 

Validity of Turkey e-Visa

The validity of the Turkey e-Visa is 180 days from the “arrival date” that you’ve selected in your e-Visa application. 

E-Visas are either single-entry or multiple-entry depending on your passport. You must enter Turkey within the validity of your e-Visa. 

When to apply for e-Visa

You can apply for your Turkey e-Visa up to 3 months in advance. The latest you can apply is 48 hours. 

How long can you stay in Turkey on e-Visa

Depending on your passport, you can either stay up to 30 days or 90 days on an e-Visa. Your total stay cannot exceed 90 days in any 180-day period. 

E-Visa application process

Turkey e-Visa approval is immediate so there is no processing time. The application is quite simple, so it only takes about 10 minutes. You can pay the fee with a credit/debit card.

You will need the following documents.

• Original passport
• A valid visa from the US, UK, Ireland or Schengen (for those that require a supporting document)
• A credit or debit card for visa fee payment

Photo requirements

A photo is not required for the Turkey e-Visa application

The e-Visa fee varies from “no fee” to $77 USD depending on the passport. Below is the table for the current Turkey e-Visa fee.

There is no processing time for the Turkey e-visa as the approval is immediate. You can then save it as a PDF on your phone or print it to carry with you when you travel. 

Customer service

In case of questions on your visa status, you can contact the Turkey e-Visa authorities using their feedback form .

RELATED: How to apply for Turkey e-Visa – An easy step-by-step guide

TURKEY TOURIST VISA FROM THE EMBASSY/CONSULATE

Turkish tourist sticker visa can be obtained from your nearest Turkish embassy/consulate or through an authorized agent, depending on the country where you are applying from. 

For example, if you are applying from Indonesia or Georgia, you must apply at the Turkish embassy or consulate. If you are applying from India or Nepal, you must apply through an authorized agent. 

To figure out where to apply, simply start your application on the Turkey Visa Pre-application portal . The portal will tell you where to apply from. If you must apply from an agent, the portal will give you the details of the agent and their website. 

Validity of Turkey tourist visa

The validity of a Turkey tourist visa is up to 90 days from the day of the issue depending on the country. You can stay up to 90 days on such a visa, except for some countries where the stay granted is 30 days or less.

When to apply for Turkish tourist visa

You can apply for your Turkey tourist visa up to 3 months in advance. The visa processing takes up to 15 working days, so the latest you can apply is 30 days otherwise the embassy/consulate or the agent will not accept your application. 

How long can you stay in Turkey on a tourist visa

You can stay up to 90 days in Turkey on a tourist visa. Your total stay cannot exceed 90 days in any 180-day period. 

If you need to stay longer than 90 days, you would need to apply for a Short Term Residence Permit at your nearest immigration office. 

Tourist visa application process

You must start your application online on the Turkish Visa Pre-Application portal . If you qualify for an e-Visa, the portal will redirect you to the e-Visa website. If you need to use an agent, then the portal will provide you with the agent’s information and website. 

If applying online, you must fill out the application and make an appointment for an interview at the Turkish mission. After filling out the application form, you must download, print and sign it. You must carry your completed and signed application form, and copies of all the documents that were uploaded on the day of your appointment. 

The documents required for Turkish visa vary from country to country and also whether you would need to apply at the consulate or through an agent. 

You may need the following documents.

• A latest passport-size photo
• Flight reservation
• Hotel booking
• Employment letter
• Bank statements
• Health insurance

Apart from the above documents, some agents ask for the following as well.

• Property ownership
• Address proof
• Certified bank statements
• Income tax returns
• No objection certificate

For online applications, all documents must be in JPG, PNG or PDF format with a maximum of 2MB in size. 

The digital photo must be in JPG or PNG format and cannot exceed 2MB. If applying with an agent, the photo must be of passport size. 

The visa fee varies from country to country. The fee starts from $60 and goes up to $200.

The tourist visa processing time is 5-15 working days depending on the country, embassy or agent.

ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURE AT THE AIRPORT

Entering Turkey by air

After you arrive at the airport, walk towards passport control and baggage claim. 

At the immigration, present your passport, boarding pass and your Turkey e-Visa soft copy or print. 

The immigration officer may ask you a few questions about your trip such as whether it’s your first time in Turkey, how long you plan to stay, etc. You may be asked to show your return/onward ticket and your hotel booking.

If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, make sure to carry proof of your onward ticket .

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I entered Turkey at Sabiha Gokcen International Airport in Istanbul. I was asked to show my Turkey e-Visa. I showed my approved Turkey e-Visa PDF on my phone. No other questions were asked and my passport was stamped. 

Leaving Turkey by air

Leaving Turkey is a breeze. Simply present your passport and boarding pass at passport control. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I left Turkey from Istanbul International Airport. I was not asked any questions. 

Turkey offers visa exemption, e-Visa and Visa on Arrival to many nationalities. A tourist visa from the embassy is necessary if you are not eligible for visa exemption, e-Visa or VOA.

About 30 nationalities are eligible for Turkey e-Visa. About 21 nationalities can also obtain an e-Visa if holding a visa or residence permit from any Schengen country, US, UK or Ireland. 

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Travel to Belgium

Visa for belgium, important information, airport transit, short stay schengen visa (less than 90 days), long stay national visa (over 90 days), third-country family members of eu citizens and the eu directive, diplomatic / service passport holder, school trip to belgium, uk travel documents, medical doctors, useful links.

Perhaps it is appropriate to draw your attention to the fact that the power of decision for access to Belgian territory, residence, establishment and removal of foreigners in Belgium is an exclusive competence of the Federal Public Service Interior (Immigration Department), rather than the Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs. 

For all general visa enquiries (application process, processing times, appointments, documentation required) please contact TLScontact:  

Either by phone  08000668786  or  [email protected]  or  via their contact form . 

Contacting us: 

Please read the information on our website carefully. We do appreciate that it might be easier for you to ask questions.  

Please understand that we may choose not to respond to questions already answered on our website. If you do need to contact us, please make sure that you give your full name, your nationality, passport number if already applied, the type of visa you are applying for and your specific question in plain English (or French / Dutch) so that we may respond to the point. 

Via email only: [email protected]

We aim to respond within 3 working days for specific queries.   

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

© 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 1930/- (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

Common information sheet for Schengen visa applicants in India pdf 489.36 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. Souyma UMESH / Dr. Geetha Ann FRANCIS / Dr. Anusuya DS/  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.

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