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