Student and Tourist Visa to Belgium (2024–2026)

How the application works

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

The visa application process follows the standard rules of the Schengen Area; however, the document requirements and their verification can be quite strict.

Depending on the purpose of the trip, either short-stay or long-stay visas are issued. For studies of more than 90 days a national category D visa is required.

Types of visas

1. Category C Schengen visa

Suitable for:

• tourism

• business trips

• visiting relatives

• short-term study and language courses

Key features:

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

• valid throughout the Schengen Area

• arranged through visa centres

• suitable for short-term study programmes

2. National category D visa

Suitable for:

• studying at universities and colleges

• long-term educational programmes

• stays of more than 90 days

Key features:

• arranged through the Belgian consulate

• requires proof of enrolment

• requires the personal attendance of the applicant

• may include additional questionnaires and checks

How to apply for a visa

1. Submitting documents

• short-stay visa: through visa centres

• long-stay visa: through the Belgian consulate

• submission is made by prior appointment

• documents are submitted in advance of the trip

2. Biometrics

• submitting fingerprints and a photograph is mandatory

• carried out at a visa centre or consulate

• the personal attendance of the applicant is required

3. Additional procedures (for a category D visa)

• a personal visit to the consulate after submission

• completing an additional questionnaire

• a possible interview

• answering questions about 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)

• motivation documents (for a category D visa)

• additional documents at the consulate's request

Processing times

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

• national category D visa: may take considerably longer

• timeframes depend on the individual case and workload

Submitting documents

• the personal attendance of the applicant is required

• submission is made by appointment only

• additional checks and document requests are possible

• it is important to monitor your email and notifications

Important points

• Belgium reviews visa applications thoroughly

• the decision is made by the consulate

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

• additional questions or an interview are possible

• for long-term study, confirmation of the academic programme is required

• all requirements and submission deadlines must be observed

Summary

• Tourism and short trips → category C visa

• Long-term study → category D visa

• Submission → visa centres or consulate

• Biometrics and personal attendance are mandatory

• Key factor → correct documents and proof of the purpose of the trip