Type D Student Visa for Higher Education
Belgium
Last updated: December 20, 2025
3-4 years (renewable)
$211
2-8 weeks
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets non-EU students study in Belgium for more than 90 days. You can study at any recognized university or college. After graduating, you get 12 months to find a job in Belgium. You can work part-time (20 hours/week) while studying and full-time during school breaks. This visa allows you to live and study in Belgium legally. You can work part-time while studying and gain employment experience. The visa is designed specifically for academic pursuits and educational enrollment. It's a student visa, so you must be enrolled at an actual school. You can't use it to just live in Belgium or work as your main job. Your primary purpose must be education.
Key Benefits
- Work 20 hours per week during school, full-time during holidays
- Bring spouse and children with dependent visas
- Access to Belgium's healthcare system
- 12-month job search period after graduation
- Path to permanent residency after 5 years
- Path to citizenship after 5-10 years
- Renewable residence permit annually
- Ability to extend for full program duration
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Not from EU/EEA countries
- At least 18 years old (17 with parental permission)
- Admitted to Belgian higher education school
- Clean police record with no serious crimes
- Pass medical exam showing no serious infectious diseases
- €835+ per month income or equivalent support
- Valid passport with 12+ months validity
- Mainland Chinese students must obtain APS certificate first
- No serious infectious diseases per WHO quarantine list
- Genuine intent to study demonstrated through admission letter
Financial Requirement
Must prove €835 per month ($980 USD). Show bank statements for 12 months, scholarship letter, university deposit, or family sponsorship letter.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be valid for at least 12+ months
- Admission letterRegistration confirmation from Belgian school
- Bank statements12 months showing €835+ per month OR scholarship letter OR university deposit proof
- Medical certificateFrom approved doctor dated within 6 months, showing no serious diseases
- Police record certificateCertificate of good conduct, dated within 6 months, required if age 18+
- Travel health insurance proof€30,000+ coverage valid for minimum 3 months
- Visa fee payment€180 paid in cash at embassy appointment
- Administrative fee payment€245 paid by bank transfer before appointment
- APS certificateRequired only for mainland Chinese students from DAAD Beijing
- Parental permissionWritten letter from parents if applicant is under 18
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.