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Belgium Schengen Visa

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Belgium Schengen Visa – Essential Travel Guide and Requirements

Planning a trip to Belgium? A Schengen visa allows you to visit Belgium and 28 other European countries. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the application process and requirements.

Why Visit Belgium?

Belgium is renowned for its medieval cities, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural heritage:

Belgium Schengen Visa Requirements

To apply for a Belgium Schengen Visa, you’ll need the following documents:

  1. Visa Application Form (VisaOnWeb Form):

  • Complete the application form via VisaOnWeb (opens in new tab) and print the form with the barcode after registration. Only VisaOnWeb forms are accepted.

  • Signature: The printed form must be signed by the applicant.

  1. Photograph:
  • Two UK passport-sized photos in color, measuring 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm, with a plain white background and taken within the last three months, adhering to ICAO standards.
  1. Passport (Original and Copy):

  • A signed full national private passport or official travel document issued within the past 10 years.

  • Valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended return date.

  • Contains two blank visa pages side by side for affixing the visa sticker.

  • Passport must be undamaged.

  1. Proof of UK Residency:

  • Print-out of your share code from the UK Home Office to verify either your immigration status or your right to work in the UK. Personal status checks printed by the applicant are not accepted; the status check must be conducted by a TLScontact agent.

  • Proof that you have at least one month of residency in the UK remaining after your planned exit from the Schengen area.

  1. Proof of Employment or Status in the UK:

  • Employees:

  • Recent, official, and signed letter from the employer on company letterhead, including name, date of issue, address, contact details, position of signatory, registration number, position and salary of the employee.

  • Pay slips for the last 3 months.

  • Self-Employed:

  • Recent, official, and signed letter from an accountant, banker, or solicitor with relevant details, confirming the nature of self-employment or business ownership in the UK, and stating the annual salary.

  • Self-assessment form issued by HM Revenue & Customs.

  • Students:

  • Recent, official, and signed letter from a school, college, or university in the UK, detailing the date of issue, type of studies, number of lessons (hours) per week, and attendance record.

  1. Proof of Sufficient Financial Means:

  • Recent UK bank account statements covering the last 3 months, showing the account balance, name, and address of the applicant.

  • Credit Card Statement: Statement must show the cardholder’s name, address, monthly limit, or spending cap.

If financially supported by a third party:

  • For Spouses:

  • Marriage certificate.

  • Spouse’s bank statements.

  • Statement of intent to support the applicant.

  • For Parents:

  • Birth certificate or proof of family relationship.

  • Parent’s bank statements.

  • Statement of intent to support the applicant.

  1. Proof of Return or Onward Travel:
  • Confirmed return ticket to the UK or proof of onward travel (such as an entry authorization into another country or confirmed overseas ticket).
  1. Proof of Accommodation or Means to Cover Accommodation:

  • Confirmed hotel booking for the entire stay in the Schengen area or proof of sufficient funds to cover accommodation expenses.

  • If applicable, this proof can be provided through an official sponsorship form (certificate of board and lodging).

  1. Travel Health Insurance: Must show the applicant’s name, have coverage of at least €30,000, be valid in all Schengen countries, and cover the entire period of intended stay in the Schengen area. The insurance must be obtained from a company based in the United Kingdom or a Member State.

For Minors (Children Under 18 Years):

  • Birth Certificate.

  • If traveling alone or with one parent (exceptions apply if one parent has sole custody):

  • Original passports of both parents or certified copies of the biodata pages.

  • Proof of parental consent or legal guardian consent.

  • British school certificate.

  • In the case of sole custody: Provide one of the following documents:

  • Birth certificate listing only one parent.

  • Death certificate of the absent parent.

  • Court ruling indicating sole custody.

Additional Documents Depending on Purpose of Travel

  • Tourism:

  • Confirmed hotel booking covering the full stay in the Schengen area, or proof of sufficient means to cover accommodation during the intended stay.

  • Alternatively, a booking confirmation of a tour, or another suitable document, such as a list of individuals participating in the tour.

  • Business:

  • Invitation Letter from a Belgian-Based Company: Signed and dated within one month of submission. The letter should be on the company’s letterhead and must include:

  • Purpose and exact dates of business travel to Belgium.

  • Indication of who will cover travel and accommodation expenses for the visa application.

  • Event Registration or Tickets: If attending a business event such as a conference or trade show, provide registration or entry tickets (for employees; students should apply as tourists).

When to Apply for a Belgium Schengen Visa

Submit your application at least 15 days before your intended travel date and no earlier than 6 months before departure. Early application helps avoid delays and ensures sufficient time for processing.

Belgium Visa Processing Time

  • Standard processing time is 15 calendar days from when the Embassy or Consulate receives the application (excluding transportation time).

  • Extended processing time: If additional scrutiny or an interview is required, or if additional documents are requested, the processing time may be extended.

  • During high-demand periods, such as holiday seasons, processing times may be longer. Applicants are advised to submit applications at least 15 days before the travel date and no earlier than 6 months before departure. Early application helps avoid delays and ensures sufficient time for processing.

Types of Visas for Visiting Belgium

The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your trip:

  • Short-Stay Visa (Type C):

Suitable for tourism and business visits, this common Schengen visa allows travel to Belgium and across all 29 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period from entry into the Schengen zone.

Belgium Schengen Visa Fees

A Schengen visa to Belgium comes with standard fees, as these are uniform across Schengen countries:

  • Consulate Fee: €90 for adults.

  • Children (Aged 6–11): €45.

  • Children Under 6: Free.

  • TLS Fee: £32.

  • Courier Fee: £30.

Please note that these fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to confirm the current rates before applying.

Frequently asked questions

How long can I stay in Belgium with a Schengen visa?
The visa permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Can I visit other Schengen countries with my Belgium visa?
Yes, with a Schengen visa for Belgium, you can travel across all 29 Schengen countries.
How long does visa processing take?
Standard visa processing time is up to 15 calendar days, though it may extend during peak times or for cases requiring additional review.
Can I extend my Schengen visa in Belgium?
Extensions are rare and generally granted only in exceptional cases, such as force majeure or humanitarian reasons.
Is it possible to work in Belgium with a Schengen visa?
No, the Schengen visa does not permit employment. You would need to apply for a work visa if your intention is to work in Belgium.
Can I study in Belgium on a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa only allows short-term studies or training lasting less than 90 days. For longer study programs, you will need a student visa.

If you want to apply with us, please start your application here.

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