Belgium, a quintessential European nation known for its mediaeval towns, Renaissance architecture, and as the headquarters of the European Union and NATO, has much to offer for travellers and businesspersons alike. For Indian citizens looking to visit, a visa is typically required, which can seem daunting at first.
However, understanding the types of visas available, the application process, and the required documents can simplify things significantly. This guide will provide a detailed overview to help Indian applicants navigate through the process. Also, it will focus on the importance of getting international travel insurance for your security and safety.
Different types of Belgium visa for Indians
There are several types of visas that Indian citizens may apply for depending on the purpose of their visit:
- Schengen visa (short stay visa): This visa allows you to stay in Belgium for up to 90 days within 180 days. It is suitable for tourism, business meetings, or family visits.
- Tourist visa: For those intending to visit Belgium for sightseeing or visiting friends and family.
- Business visa: For Indian citizens travelling for business meetings, conferences, or trade fairs.
- National visa (long stay visa): This type is required for stays longer than 90 days, suitable for employment, long-term study, or family reunion.
- Transit visa: Necessary for Indians transiting through Belgium who do not have an EU or Schengen nationality.
Each visa has specific criteria and requires documentation, so it is essential to choose the one that fits your travel purpose.
Check the list of Schengen countries you can explore with the Schengen visa.
Who should apply for a Belgium visa?
The following categories of Indian citizens need to apply for a visa to enter Belgium:
- Tourists: Any Indian citizen wishing to visit Belgium for leisure or sightseeing needs to apply for a Schengen tourist visa.
- Business professionals: Those planning to engage in any business-related activities in Belgium must apply for a business visa.
- Students and academics: Indian students accepted into Belgian educational institutions need a long-stay visa to commence their studies.
- Employees and workers: Indians who have secured employment in Belgium will require a long-stay visa that corresponds with their employment duration.
What are the Belgium visa requirements for Indians?
To successfully apply for a visa, Indian applicants must submit these Belgium tourist visa requirements:
- Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Belgium, with at least two blank pages.
- Visa application form: Fully completed and signed.
- Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs that meet the Schengen visa photo requirements.
- Cover letter: Explaining the purpose of your visit to Belgium and your itinerary.
- Proof of legal residence: Valid proof of legal residence in India, like an Aadhar card or Voter ID.
- Financial means: Evidence of sufficient financial means for the duration of the stay.
- Bank statements: Last six months' bank statements.
- Sponsorship letter: If someone is sponsoring your trip, a letter from them along with their financial documents.
- Travel itinerary: Proof of travel arrangements including round-trip airline tickets and accommodation details.
- Travel insurance: Mandatory insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation for at least Rs. 25.5 lakh.
Each document plays a crucial role in the application process and must be presented according to the embassy’s specifications to avoid rejections.
What is the cost of Belgium visa for Indians?
The cost of applying for a visa to Belgium varies depending on the type of visa:
- Schengen visa fee: Approximately Rs. 8,000 for adults and Rs. 4,500 for children aged 6-12 years.
- National visa fee: The fee varies depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay but is generally higher than a Schengen visa.
- Visa Facilitation Services (VFS) fee: Additional service fee charged by the Belgium Visa Application Centre in Mumbai and other centres across India.
