Belgium Student Visa 2027: Requirements, Fees, Application Process and Appointment Booking
Are you planning to study in Belgium in 2027? Belgium is an excellent destination for international students looking to receive a European degree, benefit from quality education and experience life in one of Europe's most multicultural countries.
Every year, thousands of international students choose Belgian universities for their Bachelor's, Master's and PhD programmes. However, before travelling, students from most non-EU countries must obtain a long-stay student visa, also known as the Belgium Type D Visa.
The application process involves several important steps, including obtaining university admission, preparing the required documents, proving sufficient financial resources, completing the online application and booking an appointment at the authorised visa application centre.
In this guide, you will discover everything you need to know about the Belgium Student Visa 2027, including eligibility requirements, documents, financial proof, application fees, appointment booking and useful official links.
Why Study in Belgium in 2027?
Belgium is one of the most attractive European destinations for international students. Its higher education system is internationally recognised, offering a wide selection of academic programmes in different fields.
Students can choose between programmes taught in English, French or Dutch, depending on the university and the chosen course.
Some of the main advantages of studying in Belgium include:
Internationally recognised university degrees.
A wide selection of Bachelor's, Master's and doctoral programmes.
Opportunities to study in English and French.
Access to a multicultural academic environment.
Opportunities to gain international experience.
A strategic location close to France, Germany, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.
Among the recognised Belgian universities are KU Leuven, Ghent University, Université libre de Bruxelles, UCLouvain, University of Antwerp and Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
Students should check each university's admission requirements, tuition fees and application deadlines before submitting an application.
Who Needs a Belgium Student Visa in 2027?
International students planning to stay in Belgium for more than 90 days generally need a long-stay Type D visa.
This visa is intended for eligible international students who have been admitted to recognised higher education programmes in Belgium.
It can cover different academic levels, including:
Bachelor's degree programmes.
Master's degree programmes.
Doctoral studies.
Recognised academic exchange programmes.
Certain preparatory programmes.
Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area and Switzerland generally do not need a student visa to study in Belgium. However, they must follow the applicable registration procedures after arrival.
Citizens of other countries should check their individual visa requirements before travelling. Visa-free entry for short stays does not automatically provide permission to reside in Belgium for an entire academic year.
Belgium Student Visa 2027: Main Requirements
To qualify for a Belgian student visa, applicants must generally meet several conditions established by the Belgian immigration authorities.
The main requirements include:
University admission: You must have an official admission or enrolment certificate from an eligible Belgian higher education institution.
Valid passport: Your passport must be valid and suitable for the requested long-stay visa.
Financial resources: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means to cover your living expenses during your studies.
Medical certificate: A medical certificate meeting the Belgian authorities' requirements is generally required.
Criminal record certificate: Adult applicants generally need to provide a police clearance certificate or equivalent document.
Health insurance: You must provide appropriate evidence of health coverage for your stay.
Academic documents: You must provide certificates and transcripts demonstrating your previous educational qualifications.
Meeting these conditions does not automatically guarantee visa approval. Each application is examined individually.
Documents Required for a Belgium Student Visa 2027
Preparing the application file correctly is one of the most important parts of the visa process.
Although the exact checklist may vary depending on your nationality and personal circumstances, international students should generally prepare the following documents.
Personal documents:
A valid international passport.
Copies of the passport identification page.
Recent passport-sized photographs.
A completed and signed long-stay visa application form.
Proof of payment of the applicable fees.
Academic documents:
Official university admission letter.
High school diploma or equivalent qualification.
Bachelor's degree certificate, if applying for a Master's programme.
Previous academic transcripts.
Language proficiency certificate, if required by the university.
Other academic documents requested by the institution.
Additional supporting documents:
Medical certificate.
Criminal record certificate, where required.
Proof of sufficient financial resources.
Health insurance documentation.
Motivation letter explaining your study plans.
Accommodation information, if requested.
Parental authorisation for applicants under 18.
Depending on the issuing country, certain documents may need to be translated, authenticated or legalised.
Language certificates such as IELTS, TOEFL, DELF or other recognised qualifications may be required by the university. However, IELTS is not a universal requirement for every Belgian student visa application.
Financial Requirements: How Much Money Do You Need?
Financial proof is an essential condition for obtaining a Belgium student visa.
Applicants must demonstrate that they have enough money to cover their accommodation, food, transportation, healthcare and other living expenses during their stay.
For the 2026–2027 academic year, the published minimum financial reference amount is €1,062 net per month.
This amount may change for the 2027–2028 academic year, so students should check the latest official figure before submitting their applications.
There are several ways to demonstrate sufficient financial resources.
1. Blocked bank account
Some Belgian universities allow international students to deposit the required amount into a blocked account.
The institution or authorised financial provider can issue a certificate confirming the availability of the funds.
2. Financial sponsor
A qualifying sponsor may provide financial support through the official Belgian financial commitment procedure, generally known as Annex 32.
The sponsor must satisfy the applicable income and eligibility requirements.
3. Scholarship
Students who receive an official scholarship can use their scholarship certificate as evidence of financial support, provided that the funding meets the relevant conditions.
Official financial information
Belgium Student Visa Fees 2027
Before submitting your application, it is important to prepare a budget covering all the expenses associated with the visa procedure.
The total cost may include the long-stay visa fee, the administrative contribution, visa centre service charges, medical examinations and document translations.
Based on the published 2026 fee schedule, the main reference amounts are:
Long-stay visa application fee: €250.
Administrative contribution: €245 for certain recognised or publicly supported higher education categories.
Administrative contribution: €236 for certain private higher education categories.
Visa application centre service charges: Depending on the applicable tariff.
These figures are reference amounts and should be checked again before applying in 2027.
Some applicants may qualify for exemptions from the administrative contribution, particularly certain scholarship holders and other categories recognised under Belgian regulations.
How to Apply for a Belgium Student Visa in 2027
The application process consists of several steps. Following them in the correct order can help you avoid unnecessary delays.
Step 1: Find a Belgian university
Start by searching for a suitable university and academic programme.
Compare admission requirements, tuition fees, language conditions and application deadlines.
Useful university websites include:
KU Leuven: https://www.kuleuven.be/
Ghent University: https://www.ugent.be/
UCLouvain: https://www.uclouvain.be/
Université libre de Bruxelles: https://www.ulb.be/
Study in Belgium: https://www.studyinbelgium.be/
Step 2: Obtain your admission letter
Submit your academic application directly to your chosen institution.
If your application is successful, the university will provide an official admission or enrolment document.
You will need this document for your student visa application.
Step 3: Complete the online visa application
Once you receive your admission letter, visit the official Belgian Visa On Web platform.
Website: https://visaonweb.diplomatie.be/
Create an account, complete the application form and select the appropriate long-stay visa category.
Check your personal information carefully before finalising the application.
Step 4: Prepare your documents
Collect all the documents required by the Belgian authorities.
Make sure that your academic certificates, financial evidence, medical certificate and other supporting documents meet the official requirements.
It is advisable to prepare both original documents and copies whenever requested.
Step 5: Book your visa appointment
After completing the online application, follow the instructions of the Belgian Embassy and the authorised visa application centre in your country.
Moroccan students must submit their student visa applications through TLScontact Rabat.
Official appointment website: https://visas-be.tlscontact.com/
Select Morocco and follow the instructions to access the appropriate application category and appointment booking procedure.
Step 6: Attend your appointment
On the scheduled date, visit the visa application centre with your complete application file.
You may be asked to submit your documents, provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph, and pay the applicable service charges.
Keep your appointment confirmation and payment receipts.
Step 7: Wait for the visa decision
After submitting your application, the documents will be forwarded to the competent Belgian authorities.
The Belgian Immigration Office examines the application and makes the relevant immigration decision.
You can use the tracking information provided by the visa application centre to follow the progress of your file.
How Moroccan Students Can Book a Belgium Student Visa Appointment
For Moroccan applicants, it is important to choose the correct application centre before booking an appointment.
According to the Belgian Embassy's instructions, student visa applications in Morocco must be submitted exclusively through TLScontact Rabat.
The Casablanca centre does not accept student visa applications.
Here are the official links Moroccan students should use:
Belgian Embassy in Morocco:
https://morocco.diplomatie.belgium.be/
TLScontact Belgium – Morocco:
https://visas-be.tlscontact.com/
Belgium Visa On Web:
https://visaonweb.diplomatie.be/
Belgian Immigration Office:
Applicants should always consult these official platforms to check appointment availability, application instructions and the latest requirements.
What Happens After Arriving in Belgium?
Obtaining your student visa is only the beginning of the administrative process.
After arriving in Belgium, non-EU students generally need to register with the municipality where they live within eight working days.
The local municipality will explain the documents needed to complete the registration process.
These documents may include:
Your passport.
Your Type D student visa.
Your university admission or enrolment certificate.
Proof of accommodation.
Health insurance documents.
Evidence of sufficient financial resources.
After completing the necessary procedures, eligible students receive a Belgian residence permit, generally an A-card.
This document allows them to reside in Belgium according to the conditions of their student status.
Can International Students Work in Belgium?
Yes. International students in Belgium may generally work while pursuing their studies, provided they respect the applicable employment and immigration regulations.
During the academic year, eligible non-EU students can generally work up to 20 hours per week, provided that their employment does not interfere with their studies.
During official university holidays, they may generally work without this weekly restriction.
Students should check the conditions of their residence permit and employment rules before accepting a job.
Tips for a Successful Belgium Student Visa Application
A well-prepared application can help reduce mistakes and avoid unnecessary delays.
Here are some important recommendations:
Apply for university admission as early as possible.
Choose an academic programme that matches your educational background.
Prepare your financial documents carefully.
Check the validity of your passport.
Obtain the required medical and criminal record certificates.
Complete the online application without errors.
Book your appointment through the official platform.
Avoid submitting false or misleading documents.
Keep copies of all submitted documents and payment receipts.
Most importantly, do not wait until the last moment to start your visa application. University admission and visa processing can take time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Belgium Student Visa 2027
Is Belgium a good destination for international students?
Yes. Belgium offers internationally recognised universities, different study languages, a multicultural environment and a wide selection of academic programmes.
Do I need a visa to study in Belgium in 2027?
Most non-EU students who intend to stay in Belgium for more than 90 days need a Type D long-stay student visa.
How much does a Belgium student visa cost?
The published long-stay visa fee increased to €250 in July 2026. Additional administrative contributions and service charges may apply.
How much money do I need to study in Belgium?
For the 2026–2027 academic year, the official financial reference amount is €1,062 net per month. The amount for 2027–2028 should be checked when officially published.
Can Moroccan students apply for a Belgium student visa in Casablanca?
No. Student visa applications in Morocco must be submitted through TLScontact Rabat, according to the Belgian Embassy's instructions.
Where can I book a Belgium student visa appointment?
You can access the official TLScontact Belgium–Morocco platform here:
https://visas-be.tlscontact.com/
Is IELTS compulsory for studying in Belgium?
No. IELTS is not compulsory for every programme. Language requirements depend on the university, the course and the language of instruction.
Can I obtain a Belgium student visa without a scholarship?
Yes. A scholarship is not compulsory if you can demonstrate sufficient financial resources through an accepted method.
Can I work while studying in Belgium?
Eligible international students can generally work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, subject to the applicable conditions.
How long does Belgium student visa processing take?
Processing times vary depending on the application, the documents submitted and the examination required by the Belgian authorities. Applying early is strongly recommended.
