Visa Requirement Summary

If you're planning to visit Belgium for tourism purposes, you will need to apply for a tourist visa. This visa allows you to stay in the country for a limited period, usually up to 90 days. To apply for a tourist visa, you will need to provide documents such as a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and a return ticket. It's important to apply for the visa well in advance of your trip, as processing times can vary. Once you have your visa, you can enjoy all that Belgium has to offer, from its beautiful cities to its delicious cuisine.

Stay Duration: 90 days

Quick Facts

Visit Belgium with ease! Quick tourist visa facts: 90-day stay, no need for a visa for EU citizens, apply at the Belgian embassy or consulate.

Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit the official website of the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country to find the tourist visa application form.

2. Fill out the application form completely and accurately. Make sure to provide all required information, such as personal details, travel itinerary, and purpose of visit.

3. Gather all necessary documents for the visa application, including a valid passport, recent passport-sized photos, proof of travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay in Belgium.

4. Schedule an appointment at the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country to submit your visa application. Some countries allow for online visa applications, so make sure to check the specific requirements for your location.

5. Attend the visa appointment on the scheduled date and time. Be prepared to answer any questions about your travel plans and provide any additional documents that may be requested by the visa officer.

Online Application Links

Documents Required

List of Documents

1. Valid passport

2. Passport-sized photos

3. Completed visa application form

4. Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation, rental agreement)

5. Travel itinerary (flight reservations, train tickets)

6. Proof of financial means (bank statements, sponsorship letter)

7. Travel insurance

8. Proof of employment or enrollment in school

9. Letter of invitation (if applicable)

10. Additional supporting documents (proof of ties to home country, medical insurance, etc.)

Make sure all documents are in the required format and meet the specified criteria for the Belgium visa application. Contact the embassy or consulate for any specific requirements or additional documents needed for your application.

Fees

Visa Fees

The visa fee for Belgium is $85 for a short-stay visa (up to 90 days) and $190 for a long-stay visa (over 90 days). Additional fees may apply for certain types of visas or services. It is important to check the latest fees on the official website of the Belgian embassy or consulate before applying.

Additional Costs

In addition to the base cost of the service, there may be additional fees that you should be aware of when applying to Belgium. These could include service fees for assistance with the application process, as well as express processing fees if you need your application to be expedited. It is important to factor in these extra costs when budgeting for your application. Be sure to inquire about any additional fees before submitting your application to avoid any surprises.

Processing Time

Standard Processing Time

The standard processing time for a visa approval in Belgium is typically around 15 calendar days. However, in some cases, this can vary depending on the type of visa being applied for and the individual circumstances of the applicant. It is important to submit all required documents and information accurately and on time to avoid any delays in the processing of your visa application. For the most up-to-date information on processing times, it is recommended to check with the Belgian embassy or consulate where you are applying.

Express Processing Options

If you need your application processed faster, there are options available in Belgium. You can opt for express processing, which expedites the handling of your application for an additional fee. This can significantly reduce the processing time and get your results faster. Contact the appropriate authority or service provider for more information on how to request express processing for your specific application.

Validity

Visa Duration

The visa duration for Belgium can vary depending on the type of visa issued but typically ranges from 6 months to 1 year.

Entry Type

Single entry for Belgium.

Extensions

Extension Process

To extend your visa in Belgium, you must follow these steps:

1. Apply for an extension at least 30 days before your current visa expires. You can do this at the local town hall or immigration office.

2. Provide proof of the reasons why you need to extend your stay, such as a job offer, family reasons, or further studies.

3. Submit all required documents, including a valid passport, proof of financial means, and any other supporting documents requested by the authorities.

4. Pay the necessary fees for the visa extension process.

5. Attend any interviews or appointments scheduled by the immigration office.

6. Wait for a decision on your visa extension application. This process can take several weeks, so it is important to apply well in advance of your current visa expiration date.

By following these steps and providing all necessary documentation, you can increase your chances of successfully extending your visa in Belgium.

Extension Fees

Extension fees for a visa in Belgium vary depending on the type of visa and the length of the extension. Generally, fees range from 30 to 350 euros. It is important to note that these fees are subject to change and it is recommended to check with the Belgian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, there may be additional administrative fees or processing fees that apply when extending a visa in Belgium.

Validity of Extensions

In Belgium, the validity of visa extensions varies depending on the type of visa. For short-stay visas, extensions can be granted for up to 90 days within 180 days. For long-stay visas, extensions can be granted for up to one year. It is important to note that extensions are granted at the discretion of the Belgian authorities and are subject to certain conditions, such as proving the need for an extension and demonstrating sufficient means of support during the extended stay.

Additional Information

Special Requirements

Travelers to Belgium are required to have a valid passport with at least six months validity remaining. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days for citizens of the European Union, United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. However, travelers from some countries may need to obtain a Schengen visa.

There are no specific medical exams or vaccination certificates required for entry into Belgium. However, it is recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling. It is also advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while in Belgium.

Travel Advisories

Belgium currently has a Level 2 travel advisory from the US Department of State, which advises travelers to exercise increased caution due to terrorism. There is also a risk of petty crime in tourist areas. It is recommended to stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and take necessary safety precautions. Additionally, travelers should monitor local news and follow the guidance of local authorities. It is always a good idea to have a comprehensive travel insurance plan in place before visiting Belgium.

Local Laws and Customs

Travelers in Belgium should be aware of the following local laws and customs:

1. Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces, including restaurants and bars. Be mindful of designated smoking areas.

2. Public drunkenness is not tolerated, and it is illegal to drink alcohol in public places such as parks and streets.

3. It is important to respect the country's linguistic diversity. Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. Be respectful of the language spoken in the region you are visiting.

4. Tipping is not mandatory in Belgium, as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is common to leave a small tip for good service.

5. In Belgium, it is illegal to jaywalk or cross the street when the pedestrian light is red. Follow traffic laws and use designated crosswalks.

6. It is important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending formal events.

Quick Facts About the Country

Belgium is known for its delicious chocolate, waffles, and beer. The country is home to the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. It has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. Belgium is famous for its comic book culture, with characters like Tintin and the Smurfs originating from here. The country is also known for its beautiful architecture, including the stunning medieval buildings in Bruges and the Art Nouveau structures in Brussels. Belgium is a small country but has a rich history and diverse culture that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Cost Amount (per day)
$ 50.00
Total Score
4 / 5 Stars
Safety
Great
English Speaking
Great
Quality Of Life
Great
Family
Great
Community
Great
Fun
Great
Food Safety
Excellent
Education Level
Excellent
People Density
Okay
Hospitals
Excellent
Nightlife
Great
Free Wifi In City
Excellent
Friendly To Foreigners
Great
Freedom Of Speech
Excellent
Female Friendly
Excellent
LGBT Friendly
Excellent