How long can I stay in Belgium on a tourist visa?

The standard Schengen Visa allows for a stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism or business.

Can I visit other European countries with this visa?

Yes, a Belgian Schengen Visa allows you to travel freely between all 29 Schengen member countries, provided Belgium is your primary destination or point of entry.

What are the visa fees for children?

The standard fee for adults is €90, and for children aged 6 to 12, it is €45. Children under 6 are usually exempt from the fee.

When is the best time to apply?

It is recommended to apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended departure, though applications can be submitted up to 6 months in advance.

Do I need a hotel booking before I apply?

While hotel bookings are standard, you can also provide a formal 'Engagement de Prise en Charge' (Annex 3 bis) if staying with a resident in Belgium.

Can I extend my stay once I am in Belgium?

No, you cannot generally extend a tourist visa while in Belgium unless there are exceptional circumstances like force majeure or humanitarian reasons.

What are the requirements for minors?

Minor children must provide a birth certificate and notarised travel consent forms signed by both parents if travelling alone or with one parent.

What happens if my application is rejected?

If your visa is refused, you will receive a standard form stating the reasons. You have the right to appeal the decision within 30 days.

visa type country

tourist visa

Belgium Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

Belgium, a heartland of European culture and politics, offers a wealth of experiences from the medieval charm of Bruges to the cosmopolitan energy of Brussels. For many international travellers, accessing this North Sea gem requires a Schengen Tourist Visa (Type C). This visa allows you to explore Belgium's historic sites, world-class breweries, and chocolate boutiques for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Navigating the application process involves proving your intent to return home, demonstrating sufficient financial means, and providing a clear travel itinerary. As Belgium is part of the Schengen Zone, your visa will typically permit travel across the entire borderless area, provided Belgium is your main destination. Please note that visa policies are subject to change; always verify current requirements with the official Belgian consulate or authorised visa service centre before submitting your application.

Key highlights

Entry to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days for leisure or family visits.
Standardised application process through Belgian embassies or external partners.
Access to all 29 Schengen member states with a single visa.
Mandatory travel insurance requirement ensures health safety during transit.
Flexible entry options including single, double, or multiple-entry permits.
Efficient processing via global service centres like VFS Global.

Processing time

15-30 working days

Processing times can increase significantly during peak summer and Christmas holiday seasons. Always apply early to avoid delays.

Estimated cost

~$130 - $150

Standard Visa Fee (Adults)€90 (~$98)
Standard Visa Fee (Children 6-12)€45 (~$49)
VFS/Service Centre Processing Fee$30 - $50

Requirements

Minimum 3 months passport validity remaining after the date you intend to leave the Schengen area.
Passport must have been issued within the last 10 years.
Proof of subsistence: approximately €95 per day if staying in a hotel, or €45 if staying with a private individual.
Travel medical insurance valid for the entire Schengen area with €30,000 minimum cover.
Evidence of strong ties to your home country (job, property, or family) to ensure return.
A clean criminal record and no previous Schengen overstays.
Biometric data (fingerprints and digital photo) must be provided during the appointment.
Accommodation proof for every night spent within the Schengen territory.
The visa fee paid in full at the time of application.

Documents you'll need

Valid passport with at least two blank pages and 3 months validity beyond stay.
Two recent passport-sized photographs meeting Schengen standards.
Completed and signed Schengen Visa application form.
Proof of travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage.
Confirmed round-trip flight bookings or detailed travel itinerary.
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter).
Bank statements from the last 3-6 months to prove financial sufficiency.
Proof of employment status (pay slips, employer letter, or student certificate).

How to apply, step by step

1
Determine Jurisdiction and Register
Identify the Belgian embassy, consulate, or VFS Global centre responsible for your jurisdiction and create an account on the official Belgian Visa-on-Web portal.
2
Complete the Application Form
Complete the application form accurately online, ensuring all names match your passport exactly, then print and sign the finished document.
3
Gather Required Documentation
Gather all supporting documents, including your flight itinerary, proof of accommodation, insurance certificate, and financial statements.
4
Book an Appointment
Schedule a visa interview and biometric collection at the designated visa application centre or embassy.
5
Attend the Interview and Pay Fees
Attend your appointment to submit your documents, pay the visa fee, and provide your fingerprints and digital photograph.
6
Wait for Processing
The authorities will review your application. You can often track the status of your passport via the service provider's website.
7
Passport Collection
Once a decision is reached, collect your passport in person or via courier to check for the visa sticker and verify all details are correct.

Tips to avoid refusal

Ensure your bank statements are recent (within 1 month) and show consistent transactions.
Avoid making non-refundable flight or hotel bookings until your visa is approved; use 'flight reservations' instead.
Double-check that your insurance explicitly mentions 'Schengen Area' or 'Worldwide' coverage.
If you are visiting multiple countries, apply through Belgium only if it is where you will spend the most time.
Be honest and consistent during your interview; discrepancies between your form and verbal answers can lead to refusal.
Provide a cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip and your daily itinerary in detail.

Frequently asked questions

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Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.

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