Dreaming of studying in Belgium? If you’re a Nepali student planning to pursue higher education there for more than 90 days, you’ll need a long-stay visa (D Visa). Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with this step-by-step guide to make the process as smooth as possible!
Do You Need a Belgium Student Visa?
Yes! If you’re enrolling in a university, college, au pair program, or Working Holiday Scheme in Belgium for over 90 days, you’ll need a D Visa. Since Belgium doesn’t have an embassy in Nepal, you’ll have to apply through the VFS Global Visa Application Center in New Delhi (which also handles applications from Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the Maldives).
Visa Fees: What You Need to Pay
Applying for a visa isn’t free, so here’s a breakdown of the costs:
- Visa handling fee: €180 (paid in Indian Rupees at the current exchange rate).
- Additional contribution fee (varies by institution):
- €236 – For private universities, au pair programs, or special cases (humanitarian reasons, marriage, etc.).
- €245 – For public universities.
How to Pay the Contribution Fee?
You’ll need to transfer the amount in Euros directly to the Belgian Immigration Office using these details:
- Bank: BPOST SA, Centrum Monnaie, 1000 Brussels
- IBAN: BE57 6792 0060 9235
- BIC: PCHQBEBB
- Payment Reference: Your Full Name, Nationality, and Date of Birth (DDMMYYYY)
Important: Double-check the payment details! If you make a mistake, don’t pay again. Instead, email infodesk@ibz.fgov.be with proof of payment for help.
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Valid passport (with at least 12 months validity and 2 blank pages) + photocopies of all pages.
- Completed visa application form (fill it online at Visa On Web)
- Proof of payment (both the handling fee and contribution fee).
- Cover letter (mentioning your address for passport return).
- University admission letter (or proof of enrollment).
- Proof of financial means (to show you can support yourself).
- Health insurance (covering your stay in Belgium).
Step 2: Book Your Appointment
Appointments open on the first Monday of every month for the next month. Since slots fill up fast, apply early through the VFS Global website.
Note: If you’re applying from outside India, you’ll still need to submit your application in New Delhi and attend an interview at the Belgium Embassy.
Step 3: Biometrics Appointment
You must visit the VFS Global Center in New Delhi in person for:
- Fingerprint scanning
- A digital photograph
Exemptions:
- Children under 6.
- If you’ve given biometrics for a Belgium visa in the last 10 years.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
After submitting, you’ll get your passport back temporarily. The embassy will contact you once your visa is processed.
Processing time: Varies, so apply at least 3 months before your intended travel date.
Step 5: Collect Your Passport
Once approved, you can collect your passport:
- In person
- Through a family member (with an authorization letter, their ID, and the receipt)
- Via courier (only to your home or office address—not travel agencies)
Important Tips for a Hassle-Free Application
- Pay attention to payment details—errors can delay your visa.
- Book your appointment early—slots are limited!
- Carry all documents—missing anything can lead to rejection.
- Check biometric exemptions—if you’ve given fingerprints before, you might not need to do it again.
Final Thoughts
Belgium offers world-class education, and getting your student visa is the first step toward an amazing academic journey. By following this guide carefully, you’ll avoid common mistakes and make the process smoother.
Still have questions? Reach out to VFS Global or the Belgium Embassy in New Delhi for clarification.
Good luck, and enjoy your studies in Belgium!