The complete guide to visas, residence permits, and administrative procedures for EU and non-EU nationals looking to settle in Belgium.
5
Visas covered
4–12 wks
Average timeline
Jun. 2026
Updated
Free · Results in 3 minutes
Overview
Belgium — single permit, municipal procedure.
Belgium applies free movement for EU/EEA citizens. Non-EU nationals must obtain a long-stay D visa and then register with the municipality within 8 days. The single permit combines residence and work authorization.
EU / EEA
Free movement
215€
Non-EU visa fees
OE
Immigration Office
Belgium is a member of the Schengen Area. Immigration is managed at the federal level by the Immigration Office (Office des Étrangers, OE), but municipalities play a central role — registration within 8 days is mandatory. A residence check is then carried out by the local police.
Which visa for your situation in Belgium?
Free assessment · Results in 3 minutes · No commitment
Available visas and permits
The main visas we support.
Click a permit to see the requirements, required documents, timelines, and practical tips. Each of these visas comes with full guidance in your nomadpass space.
PU
Single permit (employee)
Employment · non-EU
Non-EUComplex
›
Timeline
Up to 120 days (processing)
Cost
~€215
Duration
1 year, renewable
Documents
Employment contract · Passport · Diplomas · Criminal record
The employer files the application with the SPF Emploi (federal employment service) — not the employee. A mandatory preliminary step.
Combines residence and work authorization in a single permit.
ETU
Student long-stay visa
Higher education · non-EU
Non-EUModerate
›
Timeline
3 to 8 weeks
Cost
€251 (public) / €242 (private)
Min. funds
~€800 / month
Work allowed
20 hrs / week
Residence check by the municipal police within 8 days — stay reachable.
IND
Professional card (self-employed)
Self-employed activity · non-EU
Non-EUModerate
›
Timeline
4 to 12 weeks
Cost
~€140 (card) + ~€215 (residence)
Duration
1 year, renewable
Documents
Passport · Business plan · Proof of a viable activity · Funds
A startup visa is available for innovative profiles — fast-track procedure and lighter requirements.
CBE
EU Blue Card
Highly qualified profiles · non-EU
Non-EUAccessible
›
Timeline
Decision within 90 days
Cost
~€215
Duration
1 to 3 years, renewable
Requirements
Master's degree or salary ≥ €45,000 gross / year
Fast-track procedure and extended rights. Easier mobility within the EU after 18 months.
RE
Post-study job search
Graduate of a Belgian institution · 12 months
Post-studyAccessible
›
Timeline
Apply 15 days before the student card expires
Cost
Free (no fee)
Duration
12 months, non-renewable
Work
Unrestricted access to the labor market
To find a job or start a business after graduation. A bridge to the single permit.
This list presents the main residence permits, which cover the vast majority of relocation situations. It is not exhaustive: other specific visas exist for particular situations, available from the country's official authorities.
Not sure which permit to choose?
Our assessment identifies the right visa in 3 minutes
Competent authorities
The official bodies for your procedure.
The competent authorities vary depending on your nationality and your project.
5 visas and permits are covered for Belgium, including Single permit — Employee · EU Blue Card · Long-stay student visa (ASP Studies). The free assessment identifies the one that fits your situation in 3 minutes.
How long does it take to get a visa for Belgium?
From 11 days to about 6 months depending on the visa. For example, Single permit — Employee: Standard processing 120 days.
How much does a visa for Belgium cost?
Official fees depend on the visa. For example, Single permit — Employee: ~€215 (residence fee) + D visa fees.
Is the information on Belgium up to date?
Yes: every sheet cites its official sources (Immigration Office — Single permit, Working in Belgium — Single window, Brussels Economy and Employment — Work authorizations) and carries a verification date. Last verified: 2026-10-06.
