Study in Belgium: Student Visas & Permits
EU/EEA/EFTA National-Student Visa in Belgium
European nationals don’t need a visa or residence permit in order to stay and study in Belgium. You will just need to have your personal identification or passport with you during your stay and also register at the city hall after your arrival, if you intend to stay more than three months.
Non-EU/EEA/EFTA National-Student Visa in Belgium
If you are not a European citizen, you will need to apply for a student visa in Belgium before your arrival, if your stay exceeds 90 days (Type D long-stay visa). If you stay in Belgium for less than three months, then you will need a Type C short-stay visa.
In both cases, you will need to initiate your visa application by the Belgian Embassy or Consulate of your country of residence. You can find all the Belgian Embassies or Consulates here. You might need to book an appointment with the Embassy if needed in order to submit your application. The procedure takes approximately six to eight weeks.
Belgian Student Visa: Necessary Documents
For your Belgian student visa application you will need the following documents. Be aware that additional documents might be required from the Belgian Embassy of your country of origin.
- Admission letter from the Belgian university.
- A completed and signed visa application form.
- Previous educational certificates.
- Passport with at least 12 months validity remaining at the moment of your visa application.
- Proof of solvency, meaning that you have the sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies. The minimum amount required for Belgium is around 660 EUR per month and you can prove it by providing bank statements.
- Certificate of good conduct with no prior criminal record.
- Medical certificate and insurance. If you are a European national, then you need to provide the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
- Proof of payment of the administrative fee.
- Chinese students who want to study at Belgian universities or colleges need an APS certificate issued by DAAD Beijing.
Don’t forget that both European and non European prospective students need to register at the town or city hall in Belgium upon their arrival. In order to receive the registration certificate you will need to provide the aforementioned documents to the city hall as well.
For more information regarding the student visa in Belgium you can contact the Federal Public Service for Foreign Affairs.
Study in Belgium - Overview
Over 40,000 international students choose Belgium as their study abroad destination every year. Click here to learn why.
Education System
Want to learn about how higher education works in Belgium? A popular destination for international students given its high-quality education and fascinating cultural diversity, take a minute to dive into Belgium’s higher education system!
Housing & Living Costs
No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Belgium.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees for degree programs in Belgium may vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Belgium. To cover the rest of the costs, there’s plenty of scholarship opportunities available.
Language & Culture
Belgium is a country rich in history and culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more!
Application Process
All countries have specific admissions requirements for students to gain acceptance into a university. Learn more about the ins and outs of admission to programs in Belgium, and what you need to apply, depending on your citizenship.
Programs
Ready to look at education in Belgium? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Belgium today!
Keystone Team
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The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.