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BelgiumStudyLast checked October 17, 2026

Student visa (type D) for higher education

Non-EU nationals enrolled full-time at a recognised Belgian higher-education institution apply for a long-stay type D visa at a Belgian embassy or consulate. They must prove sufficient means, at least EUR 1,062 net per month for the 2026/2027 academic year, through a scholarship, blocked account or a sponsor's pledge (Annex 32). A medical certificate, criminal record certificate (18+) and an Immigration Office fee of EUR 251 (public institutions) are required.

See requirements ↓

Life in Belgium

Money

3

Currency

Euro

EUR

Euro

Cost of living

87

Price level · US = 100

World Bank price levels, 2025

Tax

25–50%

Income tax (national)

VAT 21%

Tax-free allowance EUR 11,180 (income 2026); 50% above EUR 51,070; plus municipal surcharge, typically 0-9% of the tax.

Official rates, 2026 · headline only

Living

1

Happiness

6.9

#14 of 145 countries

World Happiness Report 2025

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Who it’s for

Non-EU/EEA nationals admitted to full-time studies at a Belgian higher-education institution.

Eligibility

  • Enrolment

    Certificate of registration or admission from an accredited Belgian institution confirming full-time regular student status; equivalence of foreign degree may be required for French-speaking bachelor's programmes.

  • Sufficient means

    Show you have at least EUR 1,062 net per month through a scholarship, blocked account or Annex 32 sponsor pledge.

    EUR 1,062

    Money to show per month

    2026/2027 academic year
    Official wording

    At least EUR 1,062 net per month (2026/2027 academic year) via scholarship, blocked account or Annex 32 sponsor pledge.

  • Sponsor (Annex 32)

    Your Annex 32 sponsor must be 18 or older with regular, sufficient and stable income.

    Sponsor income cited by embassies

    Sponsor base incomenet per month, at least
    EUR 2,173.88
    Each sponsored studentadded per student
    EUR 1,062
    Official wording

    Sponsor aged 18+, with regular, sufficient and stable income; embassies cite at least EUR 2,173.88 net/month plus EUR 1,062 per sponsored student.

A sneak peek at what's inside

  • Next requirementMedical certificate
  • Document checklistPassport (valid for trip + 3 months, 2 blank pages)
  • FeesImmigration Office fee - higher education (public/recognised institution)

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  • 3 more requirements
  • 7 documents
  • 2 fees
  • 6 steps
  • Processing times and conditions
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