Belgium Visa Application: All You Need To Know

what is belgium visa

Belgium is a beautiful country that is dreamt of by many travellers to visit at least once. For citizens of the UK, this might be a very simple task. But the residents of the UK who are from different nationalities might face some challenges. This is where we are here to make things easy for you. UK residents can now visit Belgium as well, no matter what nationalities they possess, with the right guidance on filing a Belgium Visa Application, it is definitely possible. 

As you go below, important topics will be covered about Belgium Visa application, right from the processing time, fees, mandatory documents to helpful tips. Remember, for whatever purpose you are visiting Belgium, support is available every step of the way. The goal is to make your journey smoother and stress-free.

What is a Belgium Visa

A Belgium visa is an important travel document that gives you permission to enter the territory of Belgium with a specific purpose. The purpose could be for tourism, business, or transit. As of now, Belgium is a part of the Schengen Area, so you will apply for a Belgium Visa Application, which will give you a Belgium Schengen Visa to travel.

Who Needs a Belgium Visa from the UK

If you are eligible under the following conditions, then you would require a Belgium Visa from the UK:

  • You do not have the citizen status of the UK or the EU.
  • You are residing in the UK with a valid residence permit. 
  • The nationality of your passport belongs to the list of countries that are required to get a Visa to enter the Schengen Area, where Belgium is a part of. 

Note: The citizens of the UK who hold a valid UK passport will not need a visa for short stays in Belgium. That means only for 90 days. If the stay exceeds 90 days, then the UK citizen will also require a Visa to visit Belgium. 

What is the Process of a Belgium Visa Application from UK?

Here, the process of the Belgium Visa Application is very simple and straightforward. Follow the step-by-step guide:

  • Click on the “Apply Online” tab on the BELGIUM VISA UK. Fill in the details and submit.
  • An executive will contact you to clarify the details. You can clear any doubts or queries with her/him.
  • Pay the Visa Fees so that the executive can book your appointment at the Visa Centre.
  • Attend the appointment on time with the necessary documents that are guided by the executive. Proceed to the Visa Centre to finish the rest of the formalities.
  • Wait for the Belgium Visa Application to get approved and delivered to your home. 

Read more: Fascinating Festivals of Belgium with a Belgium Tourist Visa

What Documents Are Required to Apply for a Belgium Visa from UK?

document6s required for Belgium visa

Here is a list of general documents required while submitting your Belgium Visa Application:

  • A completed and signed Visa application form.
  • Your passport should be valid for an additional 3 months after the return date from Belgium to the UK. It should also have 2 blank pages.
     
  • The British Residential Permit should also be valid for an additional 3 months after your planned return date.
  • Bring recent coloured passport-sized photographs that comply with the official rules of the Schengen guidelines.
  • Provide confirmed flight Tickets showing the entry and exit from Belgium.
  • Provide confirmed booking receipts of Hotels or any kind of accommodation.
  • Get a Travel Insurance from a reputable company that covers at least €30,000 for your medical emergencies and is applicable in the entire Schengen Area.
  • Provide bank statements for the last three months showing that enough funds are available to sustain yourself in the Schengen Area during the entire stay.
  • Write a cover letter detailing the purpose of your visit to Belgium.
  • If you are employed, then an employment letter. If you are a student, then a letter from your school or university is required. If self-employed, then business details and income tax returns. If a pension holder, then the account details and other pension details.
  • The receipt of the confirmed Visa payment.  

Note: As mentioned above, the list just fulfills the general idea for the documents required. You might need additional documents as well. The executive from BELGIUM VISA UK could explain to you further after checking your details. 

Is There an Interview for a Belgium Visa?

Yes an interview is required when you apply for a Belgium Visa Application from the UK. The nature of the interview is to check that all the documents you have provided for the purpose of visiting Belgium is accurate and in some cases, extra questions are asked if more information is needed. The interview usually happens after you submit the application.

Read more: Belgium Travel Guide 2025: Things To Do in Belgium

How Long Does Belgium Visa Processing Take?

The usual time for Belgium Visa Processing is 14 to 15 working days after you submit the Belgium Visa application. 

For instance, if the time is surrounded by busy travel seasons or to clarify your purpose of visit to Belgium, additional documents are required, then the processing time may extend upto 30 to 60 working days. 

Note: We recommend that you apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before your planned trip to avoid any kind of hassles. If you still need a Belgium Visa from UK in the last minute, then contact BELGIUM VISA UK Phone: 02084326004, Whatsapp 7300463745, or email: info@belgiumvisa.co.uk immediately, so that our experienced executives can find a nearest appointment date for you. 

Belgium Visa Fees from the UK

belgium visa fee
Visa TypeConsulate FeeTLS Service feeOur Handling ChargesTotal Online Payable (TLS fees + Or Charges)
Short stay Schengen visa, less than 90 days£72£35£264£299
National Visa (more than 90 days)£72£35£264£299
Children between the age of 6 and below 12 years old£34£35£264£299
Family member of EEA/EU citizen£72£35£264£299

Difference Between Belgium Transit Visa and Belgium Travel Visa

These are the most common short-term Visa types:

Belgium Transit Visa

If you travel from any non-schengen country to another non-schengen country and you have a layover for your flight in Belgium. Then you will need this transit visa to stay at the transit area of the Belgium Airport till you catch the next connecting flight. The validity depends on the layover time which you will have mentioned earlier while applying for Belgium Visa Application.

Belgium Travel Visa, also known as a Schengen Visa

This is a short-stay visa that will allow you to stay for 90 days in Belgium or in the surrounding Schengen Area. Different categories are based on purposes:

  • Tourist Visa: If you are going to Belgium for sightseeing and enjoying some activities.
  • Business Visa: If you are going to meet some company official based in Belgium for deals, negotiations or attend a conference, then this Visa is needed.
  • Visiting family/friends: You are going to meet your family members or friends who are staying in Belgium. 
  • Cultural or Sports Events: If you want to attend or participate in any event that is being organised in Belgium.

Note: For staying more than 90 days in Belgium, you will have to apply for a Long Stay Visa, which is also known as a Type D Visa or National Visa.  

Tips for a Smooth Belgium Visa Application from UK

  • Always apply early so that you have time to wait for the Belgium Visa from UK to get processed.
  • Double-check your documents before you go for the appointment at the Visa Centre.
  • Book your appointments quickly as slots get filled up when the demand is high. 

Suggested Read: 7 Best Places & Things to Do in Antwerp, Belgium 2025

FAQs

Do I need a Belgium Visa with a UK Travel Document?

If you have a UK travel document based on your refugee, stateless, etc status, then you will definitely have to apply for a Belgium Visa to enter the country.

What will be the locations of the Visa Centre?

Based on your nearest location, you have three options:
1. London
2. Manchester
3. Edinburgh

Can I visit Other Countries with a Belgium Schengen Visa?

Yes absolutely!! With a valid Belgium Schengen Visa, you can travel to any country that is in the Schengen Area. But remember not to exceed your stay more than 90 days.

Let's Connect