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Belgium Visa Processing Time for Schengen, Work, and Study Visa Applications

Last Update: 25-09-2024

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Applying for a Belgium visa? Understanding the processing time is key to planning your trip. Whether you need a short-term Schengen visa, Belgium tourist visa or a long-term visa for work or study, the processing time can vary. Short-term visas typically take 15 working days, while long-term visas usually take around 2 to 4 weeks. During busy periods or if more documents are required, the process may take up to 6 weeks.


This blog will help you navigate the processing times for different Belgium visa types.

Table of Contents

  1. Belgium Visa Processing Time
  2. Belgium Short Term Visa Processing Time
  3. Belgium Long Term Visa Processing Time
  4. Belgium Work Visa Processing Time
  5. Belgium Student Visa Processing Time
  6. How to Check the Status of my Belgium Visa?
  7. FAQs

Belgium Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Belgium visa generally ranges from 2 to 4 weeks. However, it can take up to 6 weeks if additional documents or further review are required, especially during busy periods like summer or holidays. For short-term Schengen visas, the process may take 15 working days, with possible extensions depending on the complexity of the case. It is recommended to apply early and ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays, as incomplete applications can result in longer processing times or refusals.

Visa TypeProcessing Time

Belgium Schengen Visa

Around 15 working days (can extend to 30-60 days)

Belgium Long-Term Visa

2 to 4 weeks (up to 6 weeks during peak times)

Belgium Work Visa (Visa D)

3 to 4 weeks (up to 6 weeks in some cases)

Belgium Student Visa (Visa D)

2 to 3 weeks (up to 4-6 weeks if further review needed)

Belgium Short Term Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Belgium Schengen visa usually takes about 15 working days after you submit your application to the Embassy or Consulate. However, in some cases, this time can be extended:

  • Up to 30 calendar days if your application needs a more detailed review.
  • Up to 60 calendar days in rare cases where additional documents or an in-depth examination are needed.

If your application requires further scrutiny, it may be sent to the Aliens Office in Belgium, which will make the final decision.


You can apply for a Belgium Schengen visa for various purposes, such as tourism, visiting friends or family, or attending short-term events.  A Belgium Schengen visa allows you to visit Belgium and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Belgium is part of the Schengen Area, which means there are no border controls between member countries, and you can travel freely once inside.


Documents required for a Belgium Short Term Visa:

  • Your passport must have at least two blank pages.
  • It should be valid for at least 3 months after you plan to leave the Schengen Area.
  • You can apply for the visa only within 6 months of your planned arrival date.

If you're travelling to Belgium for tourism, you'll need the following documents:

  • Valid passport (at least 3 months beyond your stay).
  • Completed and signed visa application form with a recent colour photo (5x3cm).
  • Copy of your passport identity page and previous Schengen visas.
  • Detailed travel itinerary.
  • Hotel reservation for your stay in Belgium and other Schengen countries.
  • Proof of employment, income, and vacation days, or school certificate (if a student).
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements or salary slips).
  • Travel insurance covering at least €30,000.
  • Flight ticket reservation.

For minors travelling with one parent, a notarized consent form from the other parent is required.

Belgium Long Term Visa Processing Time

When applying for a Belgium long-term visa, the standard processing time is 15 working days from the submission of your application to the Embassy or Consulate. However, this timeline may extend depending on certain factors:

  • Up to 30 days during peak periods, such as summer or holiday seasons, when processing may take longer.
  • Up to 60 days in exceptional cases where a more detailed review or additional documents are required. In such cases, your application will be forwarded to the Aliens Office in Belgium, which will make the final decision.

To avoid delays, it’s important to submit your visa application early and ensure all required documents are included in your file.


A Belgium long-term visa is required if you plan to stay in Belgium for more than 90 days. This visa is necessary for purposes such as study, work, or joining family. To apply, make sure you meet the following requirements:

  • Your passport should be valid and have enough blank pages.
  • You need to apply within the correct time frame before your travel date.
  • All necessary documents must be provided with your application.

Note:

Applicants submitting their application for a Belgium Long Stay Visa (D Visa) category are required to appear in person.

Visa application submission and passport collection can be completed by the following:

  • The applicant in person.
  • Third-party collection of documents or passports is generally not allowed, except in the following situations: Immediate family members (such as parents, children, or spouse), A person authorised to collect on behalf of government officials with a letter on government letterhead, Red Carpet representatives, if authorised on the company’s letterhead.

This visa allows you to stay in Belgium for an extended period, making it essential for those planning to live, work, or study in the country.

Belgium Work Visa Processing Time

A Belgium work visa typically takes 3 to 4 weeks for processing. However, processing times may vary depending on your case. It’s advisable to apply at least 3 weeks before your departure to avoid delays. You can submit your visa application up to 6 months in advance.


In standard cases, the processing time is around 2 to 3 weeks, but if your application requires approval from the Home Office in Brussels, it may take 4 to 6 weeks, especially during busy periods such as summer or special events.


A Belgium work visa (Visa D) allows Indians nationals to stay and work in Belgium for more than 90 days. The process involves submitting a single application through your employer, which covers both your work and residence permit.


After receiving the email confirming your permits, you can submit your visa application through VFS Global. You’ll need to provide:

  1. A valid passport (more than 12 months).
  2. Completed Belgian application form with a photo.
  3. Document specifying your preferred language for the decision.
  4. Copy of your passport's identity page.
  5. Copy of the email granting your work permit.

Keep in mind that you cannot submit any additional documents unless specifically requested by the Embassy, and an incomplete application may lead to refusal.

Important

  • You must appear in person at VFS for biometrics.
  • Make two legible copies of all required documents and submit them in two separate files.
  • Additional documents may be requested by the Embassy, even if not listed.

Note:

Visa fees are non-refundable if your Belgium visa is denied.

Belgium Student Visa Processing Time

To study in Belgium, you will need to apply for a Visa D, which is typically for long-term stays. The processing time for a Belgium student visa can vary but is generally around 2 to 3 weeks. In some cases, if additional scrutiny is required, the process can take up to 4-6 weeks, especially during peak times like summer or when more in-depth verification is needed.


Documents Required for Belgium Student Visa (Visa D):

  1. Visa application form: You must complete and sign the visa application form and submit it along with other documents. It is advised to submit your Belgium visa application form through VFS Global for an easy process.
  2. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay (at least 12 months).
  3. Passport data page: Include a copy of the data page of your passport along with all pages having stamps or visas.
  4. Photos: Submit two recent passport-sized photos (white background, not older than 6 months).
  5. Visa fee: The visa fee is non-refundable and must be paid upon application submission.
  6. Proof of contribution: If you’re not receiving a scholarship, provide proof of payment of the contribution fee, which is deposited into a Belgian bank account.
  7. Proof of registration: Submit documents to prove you are a registered student at a recognized higher education institution. This can be: An attestation of registration in a university or non-university higher education program, Proof of pre-registration or admission for a future program, Proof of a completed entrance examination or preparatory year.
  8. Proof of access to higher education: Provide a diploma or study certificate granting you access to higher education in Belgium (like a secondary school certificate or equivalent).
  9. If under 18: Include proof of authorization from your parents or legal guardian with an apostille.

Note:

Ensure that your file is complete before submission, as missing documents can lead to delays or even refusal of your visa application.

This visa allows students to live and study in Belgium, which is known for its high-quality higher education system.

How to Check the Status of my Belgium Visa?

Here's how you can track your Belgium visa application through VFS Global:

  1. Visit the VFS online tracking page.
  2. Enter the reference number from the invoice given by the VFS Visa Application Centre.
  3. Provide your date of birth.
  4. Enter the captcha code and click ‘Submit’.

Final thought

In conclusion, the processing time for a Belgium visa for Indians varies based on the visa type and individual circumstances. Short-term visas generally take around 15 working days, while long-term visas can take 2 to 4 weeks, or longer during busy periods. To avoid delays, it's important to apply early and ensure all your documents are in order. By understanding the expected processing times, you can better plan your travel or stay in Belgium.

FAQs

How long does it take to process a Belgium visa?

Short-term visas take around 15 working days, while long-term visas take 2-4 weeks. It can extend to 6 weeks during busy periods.

What documents are required for a Belgium visa?

A valid passport, completed application, travel itinerary, proof of financial means, and travel insurance are essential.

When should I apply for a Belgium visa?

It's best to apply at least 15 days before your trip for short-term visas and 6 weeks in advance for long-term visas to avoid delays.

How can I track my Belgium visa application?

You can track your application online via VFS Global using your reference number and date of birth.

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