Are you a non-EU citizen aspiring to study in Belgium? This guide outlines the essential conditions, application procedures, and rights you can enjoy during your stay.
Conditions for Studying in Belgium
To be eligible for a student visa, you must be legally enrolled in a higher education institution or university recognized by Belgian authorities. This enrollment should be for a full course of study or a preparatory year. If you meet these conditions, you will be granted a residence permit along with a long-stay visa (Type D).
When dealing with complex migration issues, it is recommended to seek the help of a specialized lawyer to ensure a full understanding of the legal intricacies. Consider scheduling a consultation.
Application Procedures
Where and How to Apply
To obtain your Type D visa, you must submit your application, along with all required documents, to the Belgian diplomatic or consular post in your country of residence. During the application process, your fingerprints will be taken, and you will need to provide a digital photo.
You can track the status of your visa application online by entering your reference number and the location of the diplomatic or consular post.
Required Documents
When applying for a long-stay visa (D visa), you must provide:
- International Passport: Ensure it is valid for the duration of your studies.
- Medical Certificate: A standard health certificate confirming your fitness.
- Criminal Record Certificate: A document attesting that you have no criminal convictions (for applicants aged 21 and older).
- Proof of Payment: A receipt of the administrative fee (scholarship holders are exempt if the scholarship is from Belgian or EU authorities).
- Enrollment Confirmation: Documentation proving your acceptance at the educational institution.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds: Evidence of financial means to support your stay.
You also may be interested to read about Short-Term Visa to Belgium.
Residence Permit
Upon arrival in Belgium, you must register at the local municipality within eight working days. The municipality will issue a residence permit (A-card) valid for up to one academic year plus one month, which is renewable.
Renewal Conditions
To renew your residence permit, you must apply to the municipality no later than 15 days before your current permit expires. As a graduate or bachelor’s student, you need to earn a total of 45 credits in the first two years and 45 credits each subsequent year. For Master’s students, the requirement is 60 credits per year.
When dealing with complex migration issues, it is recommended to seek the help of a specialized lawyer to ensure a full understanding of the legal intricacies. Consider scheduling a consultation.
Appeals Process
If your application for a long-stay visa is rejected by the Immigration Office, you can appeal this decision before the Council for Alien Law Litigation (CALL) within 30 days of receiving the rejection.
Rights as a Student
Employment During Studies
You are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week, provided it does not interfere with your studies. There are no restrictions on working hours during school holidays.
Stay and Employment After Studies
If your situation or purpose of stay changes during your legal residence in Belgium, you may apply for a change of status.
Family Members
Your family members may stay in Belgium if they meet the conditions for family reunification.
Long-Term Residence
As a student, you do not qualify for EU long-term resident status. However, after five years of uninterrupted legal residence in Belgium, you can apply for this status based on a different legal standing, with your previous study period contributing 50% towards the requirement.
Mobility
It is important to note that Directive (EU) 2016/801 has not yet been fully implemented into Belgian national law. Currently, there are no specific provisions regarding the mobility of students, except for the Erasmus+ programme.
For complex migration issues, it is recommended to consult a specialized lawyer for an accurate understanding of the legal details. Sign up for a consultation and consider your options.