Belgium Visa Types 2027: Which One Fits You?

Why Choosing the Right Belgian Visa Matters

Belgium is a small country at the heart of Europe, with Brussels as home to the EU’s main institutions, respected universities and many international companies. But each purpose of stay needs a different visa or permit, and Belgium’s system can be confusing because it has three regions, Flanders, Wallonia and Brussels, with their own work rules. Citizens of EU and EEA countries can live and work in Belgium freely, while most other people need a visa and, for longer stays, a residence permit. Choosing the right one from the start saves time, money and the risk of refusal.

Short Visits: Tourist and Business Visas

For holidays, family visits or short business trips, many travellers need a Schengen visa, which allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Citizens of some countries can visit Belgium without a visa for the same length of time. To apply, you submit your application at the Belgian embassy, consulate or visa centre in your country, with your passport, travel medical insurance of at least EUR 30,000, proof of money for your trip and your travel plans. A tourist visa does not allow you to work or to study for a full degree in Belgium.

Studying in Belgium

To study in Belgium for more than 90 days, you need a long-stay visa, called a visa D, and you must be admitted to a recognised higher education institution. For the 2026–2027 academic year, you must show at least EUR 1,062 a month, for example through a blocked bank account, a scholarship or a sponsor. To apply, you pay the Immigration Office fee, fill in the online visa form, and submit your documents in person at the Belgian embassy or visa centre in your country. Students can work up to 20 hours a week during term, and graduates can stay up to 12 months to look for work.

Working in Belgium

Most people from outside the EU need a single permit, which combines a work permit and a residence permit, to work in Belgium for more than 90 days. Your employer usually applies for it to the region where the job is located, and you must earn at least the minimum salary set by that region. Once your single permit is approved, you apply for a visa D at the Belgian embassy or consulate, and then register at your local municipality within eight working days of arriving. Highly qualified workers can also use the EU Blue Card, and short jobs of 90 days or less use a separate work permit.

Family and Long-Term Residence

Many people living legally in Belgium can bring their spouse or partner and children through family reunification, as long as they meet conditions such as stable income, suitable housing and health insurance. After about five years of legal and continuous residence, you can usually apply for long-term residence at your local municipality. Long-term residence lets you live in Belgium without a time limit and gives you more freedom to work. Each path has its own rules, so check the details for your situation on the official Belgian immigration websites.

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