Student and Tourist Visas for Belgium (2024–2026)

How the application works

Belgium is part of the Schengen Area, so citizens of Kyrgyzstan need a visa to enter.

The process follows the standard Schengen rules, though the document requirements and the checks behind them can be strict.

Either a short-stay or a long-stay visa is issued, depending on the purpose of the trip. Studies of more than 90 days require a national category D visa.

Types of visa

1. Category C Schengen visa

Suitable for:

• tourism

• business trips

• visiting relatives

• short courses and language study

Key features:

• stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period

• valid throughout the Schengen Area

• arranged through visa centres

• suitable for short study programmes

2. National category D visa

Suitable for:

• studying at universities and colleges

• long-term study programmes

• stays of more than 90 days

Key features:

• arranged through the Belgian consulate

• requires proof of enrolment

• requires the applicant to attend in person

• may involve additional forms and checks

How to apply

1. Submitting documents

• short-stay visa: through visa centres

• long-stay visa: through the Belgian consulate

• applications are made by appointment

• documents are submitted ahead of the trip

2. Biometrics

• fingerprints and a photograph are mandatory

• taken at a visa centre or consulate

• the applicant must attend in person

3. Additional steps (for a category D visa)

• a personal visit to the consulate after submission

• completing a further questionnaire

• a possible interview

• questions about your study goals and plans

Core set of documents

• international passport

• completed visa application form

• photographs to the required standard

• proof of the purpose of the trip (invitation or enrolment)

• proof of accommodation

• financial documents

• health insurance (for a category C visa)

• educational documents (for a student visa)

• supporting motivation documents (for a category D visa)

• any further documents the consulate requests

Processing times

• short-stay category C visa: usually 15–45 days

• national category D visa: can take considerably longer

• timings depend on the individual case and current workload

Lodging your application

• the applicant must attend in person

• applications are accepted by appointment only

• further checks and document requests are possible

• keep an eye on your email and notifications

Important points

• Belgium reviews visa applications thoroughly

• the decision rests with the consulate

• submitting documents does not guarantee that a visa will be granted

• further questions or an interview are possible

• long-term study requires confirmation of your academic programme

• all requirements and submission deadlines must be met

Summary

• Tourism and short trips → category C visa

• Long-term study → category D visa

• Where to apply → visa centres or consulate

• Biometrics and attending in person are mandatory

• What matters most → correct documents and clear proof of the purpose of the trip