Belgian Student Visas
In order to move to Belgium as a student you must apply for a “Long-stay student visa (Visa D)”. Below is a list of requirements you must meet in order to qualify for a residence permit.
Financial Requirements
In order to qualify for a residence permit you must prove that you have sufficient funds to afford the cost of your degree and the cost of living in Belgium. These funds can be comprised of your personal savings as well as grants, scholarships, and/or loans.
€9,660
for one year of living expenses
(calculated at €805 per month x 12 months)
Ways to meet the financial requirements
Compared with other countries, Belgium offers several ways to prove the financial means for studying in Belgium: a blocked account, a sponsorship arrangement, or a guarantor. Note: the guarantor must be a Belgian resident.
Blocked Account
Some universities offer this system: you transfer the annual living amount (plus some buffer) into a Belgian account, and the university pays it back to you monthly
The most straightforward method of proving financial means is through submitting a bank statement for a checking account in the student’s name with the required amount of funds.
If a family member will sponsor the student, the family member can write a letter confirming their financial support. This can be submitted along with their bank account statement and a credit or debit card in the student’s name linked to this bank account.
Other Requirements
€180
Long-stay Student Visa (Visa D) Application Fee
Confirmation
of studies
A document issued by your university proving you are enrolled.
Proof of own resources
If you have not yet paid tuition you must prove you have sufficient funds for this in addition to your living expenses.
Police clearance certificate
Required for students over the age of 21, or if specifically requested. This should confirm you have no criminal convictions.
Guarantor
Aka Annexe 32 / Bijlage 32 – a Belgian resident can commit to supporting you financially, with notarised and certified documentation
Health Insurance
You must already have a health insurance policy to cover your 1st year in Belgium.
Translations
Belgian authorities accept documents in English; no translation into French, Dutch, or German is required.
Sponsorship
Sponsorship agreements are allowed. If your parents or a family member will support you during your studies they must show official proof of funding that covers at least the minimum monthly requirement
Medical certificate
Proving you are not suffering from diseases that could endanger public health.
Discover more about studying in Belgium
