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Belgium Visa Guidelines

U.S. citizens studying abroad in Belgium may need to obtain a visa depending on the length of their program. It is your responsibility to confirm requirements, prepare the necessary documents, and apply for the correct visa through the Belgian Embassy or Consulate.
 

Start here: https://unitedstates.diplomatie.belgium.be/en/visa-belgium/national-visa-d-visa

What Type of Visa Do I Need?

  • Less than 90 days: U.S. citizens do not need a visa to study in Belgium for stays up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • More than 90 days: Students must apply for a National Visa (Type D) for study purposes. This visa is required for semester- or year-long programs.

When Should I Apply?

  • You may submit your application no earlier than 6 months before the start of your program.
  • You must apply at least 3 weeks before departure. However, it is strongly recommended that you apply 8–12 weeks in advance to allow time for processing and gathering required documents.
  • Processing times vary but generally take several weeks to a few months depending on the complexity of your application.

Application Requirements

Check the webpage here.
 
  1. Create an account on visaonweb.diplomatie.be;
  2. Start a new application;
  3. Gather all the required documents on the checklist;
  4. Make an appointment at the consular post or submit your application by mail. 

All visa applications must be submitted in person at the Belgian Embassy or Consulate that has jurisdiction over your U.S. state of residence. At your appointment, biometrics (fingerprints and photo) will be collected. Required documents typically include:
  • Completed Long-Stay Visa Application Form
    • ​​​​​​​Duly completed online and signed. Signature must be notarized when mailing application. 
  • Valid passport
    • Must have been issued within the last 10 years
    • Must be valid for at least 12 months beyond your intended stay in Belgium
    • Must contain at least 2 blank visa pages
  • Two recent passport-sized photos (per ICAO standards)
  • Official letter of admission from a recognized Belgian higher education institution
  • Proof of sufficient financial means
    • A statement from the university in Belgium on official letterhead that a blocked bank account has been set up, stating the amount in EUR, to cover the cost of living in Belgium;   
    • OR a financial aid statement on official letterhead from the university in the USA indicating the amount in USD related to scholarships and/or student loans that can be used at the named university in Belgium to be used for the cost of living;  
    • OR a duly completed affidavit of support. 
    • Use this link to learn how much money you need. 
  • Proof of accommodation in Belgium (housing confirmation, rental contract, or university housing letter)
  • Criminal background check - FBI criminal history record
  • Medical certificate completed by a physician approved by the Belgian Embassy/Consulate
  • Proof of valid health insurance covering medical costs in Belgium
  • Visa application fee (approximately €234, payable in USD equivalent; subject to change)

Important Notes

  • Translations & legalization: Certain documents (e.g., background check, financial guarantee) may need to be legalized with an apostille and translated into French, Dutch, or German depending on the region of study.
  • Incomplete applications: Missing or incorrect documents will delay processing.
  • Passport retention: The Embassy/Consulate may keep your passport while your visa is under review. Plan travel accordingly.

After Arrival in Belgium

  • Municipal registration: Within 8 days of arrival, you must register at the local town hall (commune/gemeente) of your residence.
  • Residence Permit: You will be issued an electronic residence card valid for the duration of your studies. This card must be renewed annually if you remain enrolled.

Where Do I Apply?

Visa applications are processed by the Belgian Embassy in Washington, D.C., or one of the Belgian Consulates General (New York or Los Angeles), depending on your state of residence. Check the Belgian Embassy website for your jurisdiction to confirm procedures, required forms, and appointment availability.

Final Reminders

  • Begin the process early to allow time for apostilles, translations, and visa processing.
  • Keep copies of all submitted documents.
  • Requirements are subject to change. Always confirm the most up-to-date information with the Belgian Embassy or Consulate before applying.

Contact Information

Embassy of Belgium, 3330 Garfield Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20008
Tel: +1 202 333 6900 ¦ Fax: +1 202 338 4960
E-mail: Washington@diplobel.fed.be
Website: http://www.belgiumintheusa.be