Belgium Visa For Indian Passport Holders

Belgium, a member of the Schengen Area, offers various visa types for Indian citizens, catering to different purposes of visit. Understanding the visa requirements and process is crucial for a successful application.

Tourist Visa (Schengen Visa):

• Purpose: Travel, tourism, or visiting family/friends.
• Stay Duration: Up to 90 days within 180 days.

Business Visa (Schengen Visa):

• Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, trade fairs.
• Stay Duration: Up to 90 days within 180 days.

Transit Visa (Schengen Visa):

• Purpose: Transit through Belgium to another country.
• Stay Duration: Up to 5 days.

Long-Stay Visa (National Visa):

• Purpose: Stays exceeding 90 days (e.g., study, work, family reunification, retirement).
• Stay Duration: Exceeds 90 days, depending on the purpose.

Common Requirements

Valid Indian Passport:

• Validity: At least three months beyond the intended stay.
• Blank Pages: At least two.

Filled and Signed Visa Application Form:

• Source: Download from the official website or collect from the embassy/consulate.

Recent Passport-Sized Photos:

• Quantity: 2-3.
• Specifications: As per Schengen requirements (35x45mm, white background, recent).

Travel Medical Insurance:

• Coverage: At least €30,000.
• Scope: Medical and hospital expenses, repatriation, and evacuation.

Proof of Financial Means:

• Amount: Approximately €45 per day for the entire stay.
• Document: Bank statement (recent, covering the last 3-6 months).

Flight Itinerary or Travel Plans:

• Confirmation: Confirmed flight tickets or a detailed travel itinerary.

Hotel Reservation or Proof of Accommodation:

• Options: Hotel booking, rental agreement, or invitation letter from the host.

Proof of Purpose:

• Tourist: Detailed itinerary, travel guide, or proof of tour booking.
• Business: Invitation letter from the Belgian company, conference registration, or a letter from the Indian company.

Additional Requirements for Specific Cases

Minors:

• Birth Certificate.
• Parental Consent Letter.
• Copy of the Parent's Passport.

Students:

• Admission Letter from a Belgian educational institution.
• Proof of Tuition Fees Payment.

Employed/Self-Employed Individuals:

• Leave Approval Letter from the employer.
• Income Tax Return (ITR) or a certificate from the accountant.

Retirees:

• Pension Statement.
• Proof of Regular Income.

Step 1: Check if You Need an Appointment

Why is this necessary? Some application centers or the embassy/consulate might require applicants to schedule an appointment before submitting their visa application. This is to manage the flow of applicants and reduce waiting times.

How to check:

• Visit the Official Website:

• • For VFS Global (Belgium Visa Application Center): www.vfsglobal.com/belgium/india/

• • For the Belgium Embassy in New Delhi: https://newdelhi.diplomatie.belgium.be/

• • For the Consulate General of Belgium in Mumbai: https://mumbai.diplomatie.belgium.be/

• Contact the Application Center or Embassy/Consulate Directly:

• • Phone: Use the contact numbers provided on the official websites.

• • Email: Send an inquiry to the email addresses listed on the official websites.

What if an appointment is required?

• Schedule Your Appointment: Follow the instructions provided by the application center or embassy/consulate to book your slot.

• Plan Accordingly: Ensure you have all documents ready and are available at the scheduled time.

Step 2: Gather All Required Documents

Importance of Completeness:

• Avoid Delays: Incomplete applications can lead to processing delays.

• Prevent Rejection: Ensure all required documents are submitted to minimize the risk of visa rejection.

Documents Checklist:

• Valid Indian Passport

• Filled and Signed Visa Application Form

• Recent Passport-Sized Photos

• Travel Medical Insurance

• Proof of Financial Means

• Flight Itinerary or Travel Plans

• Hotel Reservation or Proof of Accommodation

• Proof of Purpose (varies by visa type)

• Additional Requirements (for specific cases, e.g., minors, students, employed/self-employed individuals)

• Tips for Gathering Documents:

• Start Early: Allow sufficient time to collect all necessary documents.

• Verify Each Document: Ensure all documents are up-to-date, complete, and meet the specified requirements.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Submission Methods:

• In Person:

• • Location: Designated application center or the embassy/consulate.

• • Requirements: Bring all original documents and a copy set, plus the filled application form.

• • Benefits: Immediate clarification on any doubts, faster detection of any missing documents.

• Through an Authorized Representative:

• • Eligibility: If personal appearance is not feasible due to health issues, distance, or other valid reasons.

• • Requirements: Authorized representative’s ID, authorization letter, and all required documents.

Note: The representative may be asked questions about the application.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

Fee Structure:

• Schengen Visa (Adults): Approximately ₹4,600 (€60)

• Schengen Visa (Children 6-12 years): Approximately ₹2,700 (€35)

• Schengen Visa (Children under 6 years): Free

• Additional Service Fees (if applying through VFS Global): Varies, typically around ₹1,500 to ₹2,000

Payment Methods:

• Cash: Accepted at most application centers and the embassy/consulate.

• Credit/Debit Card: Widely accepted; check with the application center for specific card types.

• Bank Transfer: Less common; verify if this option is available and understand the transfer process.

Step 5: Provide Biometric Data (if applicable)

What is Biometric Data Collection?

• Fingerprints: A quick, painless process to collect fingerprints for security and identification purposes.

Who Needs to Provide Biometric Data?

• First-Time Applicants: Most individuals applying for a Schengen visa for the first time.

• Previous Applicants (under certain conditions): If biometric data is older than 5 years or as requested by the embassy/consulate.

Process:

• Fingerprint Scanning: A simple, digital process.

• Face Capture: A photo will be taken.

Step 6: Wait for the Decision

Processing Time:

• Typical: 15 calendar days.

• Extended Processing: Up to 30 or 60 days in exceptional cases.

Tracking Your Application:

• Online Tracking (VFS Global): Use the reference number provided.

• Phone/Email Inquiry: Contact the application center or embassy/consulate with your application reference.

Step 7: Collect Your Passport

Collection Methods:

• In Person:

• • Requirement: Bring the receipt issued at the time of application submission.

• • Benefit: Immediate collection upon verification.

• Through an Authorized Representative:

• • Requirement: Representative’s ID, authorization letter, and the application receipt.

Note: Ensure the representative is aware of the collection process.

What to Expect Upon Collection:

• Approved Visa: Check your visa for accuracy (name, dates, passport number, etc.).

• Rejected Application: Understand the reason for rejection and how to appeal or reapply.

Fees and Payment Methods

• Schengen Visa:
• Adults: Approximately ₹4,600 (€60).
• Children (6-12 years): Approximately ₹2,700 (€35).
• Children under 6 years: Free.

• Additional Service Fees (if applying through VFS Global or similar centers):
• Service Charge: Varies, typically around ₹1,500 to ₹2,000.
• Optional Services (e.g., Prime Time, Courier): Extra charges apply.

The visa applications require 2 identical photos per the embassy's Belgium visa photo size regulations. The Belgium Schengen visa photo requirements are as follows -

Belgium Embassy in New Delhi:

• Address: 50-N, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi - 110021.
• Phone: +91 11 42428000.
• Email: newdelhi@diplobel.fed.be.

Consulate General of Belgium in Mumbai:

• Address: 101, 10th Floor, Express Towers, Nariman Point, Mumbai - 400021.
• Phone: +91 22 66386999.
• Email: mumbai@diplobel.fed.be.

VFS Global Application Centers:

• Locations: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.
• Website: www.vfsglobal.com/belgium/india/.
• Contact: Check the website for specific center details.

Standard Processing Time: 15 calendar days.

Extended Processing Time: Up to 30 or 60 days in exceptional cases.

Track Your Application:

• Online: Through the VFS Global website (if applied through them).
• Phone/Email: Contact the application center or embassy/consulate directly.

1. Apply Well in Advance to Avoid Last-Minute Hassles

Understanding Processing Times:

• Standard Processing: Typically 15 calendar days for Schengen visas.

• Extended Processing: Up to 30 or 60 days in exceptional cases or for national visas.

Planning Your Application Submission:

• For Schengen Visas (Up to 90 Days): Submit your application at least 3-4 weeks before your planned travel date.

• For National Visas (Over 90 Days): Submit your application at least 8-12 weeks before your planned travel date.

Benefits of Early Application:

• Avoids last-minute rushes and associated stress.

• Allows time for potential additional documentation requests.

• Ensures you receive your visa in time for your trip.

2. Ensure All Documents Are Complete to Prevent Delays or Rejections

Thoroughly Check the Required Documents List:

• Refer to the official government website or the application center's guidelines.

• Ensure you have all necessary documents for your specific visa type.

Verify Each Document Meets the Criteria:

• Validity: Check expiration dates for passports, IDs, and visas.

• Completeness: Ensure all forms are fully filled, signed, and dated.

• Legibility and Quality: Documents should be clear, not blurred, and in the required format (e.g., PDF, JPEG).

Consequences of Incomplete Applications:

• Delays: Your application may be put on hold until all documents are received.

• Rejections: In severe cases, an incomplete application can lead to a visa rejection.

3. Check the Official Government Websites for the Latest Information

Why Stay Updated?:

• Policy Changes: Visa requirements can change frequently.

• New Regulations: Stay informed about any new rules affecting your application.

• Application Process Updates: Changes in submission processes or required documents.

Websites to Bookmark:

• Belgium Immigration Office: https://dofi.ibz.be/en/themes/visa-for-belgium

• VFS Global (Belgium Visa Application Center in India): www.vfsglobal.com/belgium/india/

How to Stay Informed:

• Newsletter Subscriptions: If available, for direct updates.

• Social Media: Follow official accounts for the latest news.

• Regular Website Checks: Especially close to your application submission date.

4. Verify the Application Center's Requirements Before Submission

Importance of Verification:

• Specific Requirements: Each center may have unique requirements or additional services.

• Avoid Last-Minute Surprises: Ensure you're prepared with all necessary items.

What to Verify:

• Document Checklist: Confirm the required documents match the official list.

• Submission Process: In-person, through a representative, or postal service.

• Service Hours and Location: Plan your visit accordingly.

• Additional Services and Fees: Understand what's offered (e.g., express processing, courier services).

How to Verify:

• Official Website of the Application Center: Check for detailed guidelines.

• Contact Center: Phone, email, or live chat for direct inquiries.

5. Make a Copy of Your Application for Your Records

Why Keep a Copy?:

• Tracking and Follow-Up: Easily refer to your application details.

• Evidence of Submission: In case of disputes or losses.

• Future Applications: Some documents may be reusable or serve as references.

What to Copy:

• Filled Application Form: Before and after signing.

• All Submitted Documents: Including passports, photos, and support letters.

• Receipt of Submission: Proof of application submission and payment.

How to Store Your Copies:

• Digital Copies: Secure cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) for accessibility.

• Physical Copies: Organized file or folder, kept in a safe place.

• Belgium Embassy in New Delhi: +91 11 42428000, newdelhi@diplobel.fed.be
• Consulate General of Belgium in Mumbai: +91 22 66386999, mumbai@diplobel.fed.be
• VFS Global (Belgium Visa Application Center): www.vfsglobal.com/belgium/india/
• Official Government Website for Belgium Visa Information: https://dofi.ibz.be/en/themes/visa-for-belgium

Need more clarity on Belgium visas? Check out helpful resources below

Belgium Visa Requirement
Belgium Tourist Visa Requirement
Belgium Business Visa Requirement
Belgium Work Visa Requirement
Belgium Visit Visa Requirement
Belgium Embassies and Consulates
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection