FAQ
Common questions.
What do I need for the Belgium student visa?
The official page asks for: admission or enrolment letter from a recognised school, diploma that gives access to higher education, medical certificate from an approved doctor, criminal record check if 18 or over and travel or health insurance for the first months, as well as the money to live on.
How much money do I need for the Belgium student visa?
At least EUR 1,062 net a month for the 2026-2027 academic year. It can be shown with a scholarship, money paid into a blocked account at the university, or a sponsor's signed pledge (Annex 32).
Can I work while I study in Belgium?
Up to 20 hours a week in term time if it fits with the studies, and no hour limit in school holidays. No separate work permit is needed.
Can I stay in Belgium after I graduate?
After finishing studies in Belgium, graduates can ask to stay up to 12 months to find a job or start a business, applying at their town hall at least 15 days before the card ends.
How long can I stay on the Belgium student visa?
At least one year at first. The A card is valid for one year. Yes, the card can be renewed under certain conditions.
How much does the Belgium student visa cost?
A EUR 251 fee to the Immigration Office for students at public higher education schools, plus a visa fee paid at the embassy in local money. Students with a Belgian grant do not pay the Immigration Office fee.
Who can apply for the Belgium student visa?
Open to people from outside the EU, the EEA and Switzerland. People from outside the EU, EEA and Switzerland who are admitted or enrolled as regular full-time students at a recognised Belgian higher education school.
How do I apply?
Apply in person for a visa D at the Belgian embassy or consulate for the place where you live, or its visa centre (VFS Global or TLS Contact). You give fingerprints and answer questions about your study plans. The Immigration Office must decide within 90 days of the embassy receipt.
Sources
- Belgium: Long-stay visa (D) and stay as a student in higher education (dofi.ibz.be)
- Belgium: Long-stay visa (D) and stay as a student in higher education (liban.diplomatie.belgium.be)
- Belgium: Long-stay visa (D) and stay as a student in higher education (employment.belgium.be)
- Belgium: Long-stay visa (D) and stay as a student in higher education (vlaanderen.be)
- Belgium: Long-stay visa (D) and stay as a student in higher education (brasil.diplomatie.belgium.be)
- Belgium: Long-stay visa (D) and stay as a student in higher education (dofi.ibz.be)
- Belgium: Long-stay visa (D) and stay as a student in higher education (dofi.ibz.be)
- Belgium: Belgian Office Taipei: student visa (taipei.diplomatie.belgium.be)
- Belgium: Immigration Office: study, visa D (official reference site) (dofi.ibz.be)
General information, not legal advice. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.