Obtaining a visa to study in Belgium
What is a study visa? What is it for?
Studying abroad is a dream for many students. In Europe, thanks to Erasmus+, young people can easily go on exchange to another country, while having their courses recognized. And even without this program, students with the nationality of a Schengen or EEA country can study in Belgium without a visa, provided they have the necessary resources to live locally.
But for those from non-Schengen countries, it's a different story. You have to apply for a study visa, an authorization issued by Belgium that allows you to reside legally in the country for the duration of your course. To obtain it, it's not enough to be accepted by a university: you also have to prove that you have enough money to support yourself, health insurance and a coherent academic record.
This visa, valid for one year and renewable, also allows part-time work under certain conditions. But beware: the Belgian administration is demanding, and an ill-prepared application may be refused. So how can you avoid the pitfalls and make the most of your chances?
Belgium, one of the best academic destinations
Belgium has established itself as one of the top academic destinations for international students. With universities ranked among the best in the world, high-level teaching and the possibility of studying in French, Dutch or English, our country attracts thousands of students from all over the world every year.
Our university system is renowned for its excellence in research, as well as its openness to foreign students.
Studying in Belgium is much more than just getting a degree: it's about giving yourself the means to succeed in your career, whether in Belgium, Europe or elsewhere in the world. Belgian universities are renowned not only for the quality of their teaching, but also for their proximity to the world of work. Here, you don't just accumulate theory: training courses are often focused on practice, research and market needs. The result? Belgian graduates have a head start when it comes to finding a job.
And after your studies, there are several options open to you. You can move to Belgium and take advantage of a dynamic job market, especially in sectors such as tech, finance or research. Brussels, in particular, is a city full of opportunities, with its European institutions, NGOs and multinationals. You can also return to your home country with a degree that carries weight, and international experience that will make all the difference on your CV. Finally, thanks to the recognition of Belgian diplomas throughout Europe, you can easily work elsewhere in the EU, taking advantage of the mobility of the single market.
What are the conditions for obtaining a visa to study in Belgium?
To obtain a visa for studies, you will need to prepare a complete file including
- Admission to a Belgian establishment : You must provide proof that you have been admitted to study at a Belgian establishment that meets certain criteria. In addition to the institution's criteria, you must also provide evidence of a coherent academic record.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources : You must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself throughout your studies. This corresponds to a budget of around 900 euros net per month. These financial resources may be your own or those of a guarantor who undertakes to provide for your needs.
- Proof of tuition payment: A copy of your university tuition payment or proof of scholarship is required to complete your application.
