Belgium

Guide to Applying for a Belgium Visa

Located in the heart of Europe, Belgium is a popular destination for both tourism and business, known for its historic cities, rich culture, and international institutions. Turkish citizens are required to obtain a valid Schengen visa to travel to Belgium. This guide explains in detail the steps of the Belgium visa application process, the required documents, and important points to consider.

Types of Belgium Visas

There are different types of visas depending on the purpose and duration of your travel to Belgium. Applications are mainly divided into two categories: short-stay (Schengen) and long-stay (National).

Schengen Visa (Type C)

This visa is issued for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It also allows travel to other member countries of the Schengen Area. The main Type C visa categories are:

• Tourist Visa: For holidays and sightseeing purposes.
• Business Visa: For business meetings, trade fairs, conferences, or commercial negotiations.
• Family and Friend Visit Visa: To visit family members or friends residing in Belgium.
• Cultural/Sports Event Visa: For participation in cultural or sports events in Belgium.

National Visa (Type D)

This is the visa type required for stays longer than 90 days in Belgium, such as for work, study, or family reunification. The procedures and requirements for a national visa differ from those for a Schengen visa and are subject to the direct approval of the competent authorities in Belgium.

How to Get a Belgium Visa? Step-by-Step Application Process

The Belgium visa application process consists of several steps that must be followed carefully. Completing the application correctly and completely is critical for a positive outcome.

1. Completing the Online Application Form (Visa on Web): The first and mandatory step of the Belgium visa application is to fill out the online application form on "Visa on Web," the official portal of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. All information on the form must be entered correctly and completely, and a printout of the form must be included in the application file.

2. Preparing the Required Documents: You need to prepare all the requested documents for your intended visa category in an up-to-date and complete manner. The list of documents varies depending on the applicant's professional status and purpose of travel.

3. Booking an Appointment with VFS Global: The authorized external service provider that accepts visa applications on behalf of the Belgian Consulate is VFS Global. It is mandatory to book an appointment online through the VFS Global website to submit your application file and provide your biometric data (fingerprints).

4. Application and Biometric Data Submission: On your appointment day, you must go to the VFS Global application center with all the documents you have prepared and the Visa on Web form printout to submit your file and provide your fingerprints.

5. Passport Tracking and Collection: After your application is evaluated by the consulate, you can collect your passport from VFS Global. You can track your application process on the VFS Global website.

Required Documents for a Belgium Schengen Visa

Below is a general list of documents. Additional documents may be requested depending on the category you are applying for (tourist, business, visit).

• Visa on Web Form: A printed and signed copy of the completed online application form.
• Passport: A passport valid for at least 3 months after the planned departure date from the Schengen area, with at least 2 blank pages.
• Biometric Photo: 2 recent photos, 35x45mm, with a white background.
• Travel Health Insurance: An insurance policy valid in the entire Schengen area, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
• Travel and Accommodation Documents: Round-trip flight reservations and hotel reservations or other documents proving accommodation.
• Documents Proving Financial Status: Stamped and signed bank account statements for the last 3 months, payroll slips, and, if available, copies of title deeds and vehicle licenses.
• Documents According to Professional Status: For employees, an SGK service record and a letter from the employer; for business owners, a tax certificate and signature circular; for students, a student certificate and sponsor documents.

Belgium Business Visa Invitation Requirement

One of the most important documents for business visa applications is the invitation letter. The invitation letter from the company in Belgium must be written on company letterhead, stamped, and signed. The letter must clearly state the purpose and duration of the trip, the information of the invited person, and who will cover the travel expenses.

Belgium Visa Rejection Reasons

Common reasons for application rejection include:

• Failure to clearly and convincingly prove the purpose of travel.
• Insufficient financial resources to cover travel expenses.
• Incorrectly or incompletely filled out application form (Visa on Web).
• Inconsistencies in the documents or submission of fraudulent documents.
• Failure to provide sufficient evidence of the applicant's intention to return to their home country (job, family ties, etc.).

Ensuring all information is accurate and submitting all requested documents completely is crucial to minimizing the risk of rejection.

The Belgium Visa Process with Hermes Vize

The Belgium visa application process can be complex, especially due to the Visa on Web form and detailed document requirements. Hermes Vize offers professional consultancy services to simplify this process for you. If you would like to get expert support for the correct and complete preparation of your application and to learn more about the process, you can contact us.