Belgium Visa Information
Visa Type:
Sticker
Length of Stay:
upto 90 Days
Type:
Short-term
Entry:
Multiple
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Appointments Available in These Countries
Countries
Appointment Dates Before Belgium
What you get
Atlys will give you a completed application packet with all necessary documents
Your Final Application Preview
Application Packet









For illustrative purposes only; actual packet will reflect your details
Statistics
This data was taken from the official Schengen Visa data of 2025.
Chances of approval for Belgium
This data was taken from the official Schengen Visa data of 2025.
Years
2021-2025
Users
18k+
Overall Stats
Years
2021-2025
Users
132k+
Belgium Visa Rejection Reasons
Factors that can get your visa rejected
Expired Passport
Applying with a passport that has expired or expires within 6 months
Insufficient Funds
Failing to demonstrate enough financial resources to support your stay.
Criminal Record
Having a criminal history that disqualifies you from obtaining a visa.
Previous Visa Violations
Having overstayed or violated the terms of a previous visa.
Invalid or Insufficient Travel Insurance
Failing to present valid or adequate travel insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
- General Information
- Eligibility & Requirements
- Application Process
- Status Tracking
- Entry & Exit Regulations
- Refunds, Rejections & Reapplications
- Visa Extension & Overstays
General Information
Do Indians need a visa for Belgium?
Yes, Indian passport holders need a valid visa, specifically a Schengen visa, to travel to Belgium for short stays like tourism, business, family visits, or other approved activities for up to 90 days within 180 days.
Belgium does not offer visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry for Indian citizens.
Note: With a Belgium Schengen visa, you can travel within the entire Schengen Area, comprising 29 European countries, without needing separate visas.
What is the Belgium visa fees for Indians?
The Belgium visa fees for Indians are as follows: for adults, €90; for Children (6-12 years), €45; and for Children under 6 years, free of cost.
Additional costs may apply if you opt for premium services, such as expedited processing, SMS notifications, or courier delivery of your passport.
Tip: Keep the exact visa fee ready at your appointment, as payment methods can vary depending on the visa application centre.
What is the Belgium visa validity for Indians?
The Belgium tourist visa validity for Indians is up to 180 days, allowing a maximum stay of 90 days within this period.
Note: Depending on the visa type you are granted, single-entry or multiple-entry, you may be able to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times within the visa's validity.
Can I travel to other Schengen Countries with a Belgium tourist visa?
Yes, a Belgium visa allows you to travel freely to other Schengen Countries without needing additional visas. However, when applying, you must keep the following two key points in mind:
You should clearly state your intention to visit multiple Schengen Countries and provide a detailed itinerary that covers your entire trip.
Make sure your first point of entry is Belgium or that Belgium is your main destination, as this will align with the requirements of the embassy where you are applying for the visa.
The 29 Schengen Countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Can I travel to Belgium with a Schengen visa issued by Austria?
Yes, you can enter and travel to Belgium with a Schengen visa issued by Austria.
However, it’s advisable to spend the majority of your time in the country that issued the visa, or it should be your first point of entry into the Schengen Area. For example, if Austria issued your visa, you should ideally enter the Schengen Area through Austria or spend the most time there. After that, you're free to visit other Schengen Countries like Belgium.
Not meeting the above cases? Worry not! Read our guide on- Getting A Schengen Visa From One Country And Travelling To Another? (Essential Tips & Legal Insights)- to learn more about navigating these situations smoothly while staying compliant with Schengen regulations.
What is the difference between a single-entry and a multiple-entry Belgium visa?
A single-entry Belgium visa allows you to enter Belgium (& the Schengen Area) only once. After leaving, you cannot re-enter, even if the visa is still valid.
A multiple-entry visa, on the other hand, allows you to enter and exit Belgium (or the Schengen Area) multiple times within the visa's validity period (as long as you do not exceed the 90-day stay limit within 180 days).
Can I apply for a multiple-entry Schengen visa for Belgium?
Yes, you can apply for a multiple-entry Schengen visa for Belgium. Multiple-entry visas are typically issued for 1, 3, or 5 years, depending on your travel history and the discretion of the consular officer.
Note: Despite having a multiple-entry visa, you can only stay for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.
What is the 90/180 rule for Schengen visas?
The 90/180 rule is a crucial guideline for travellers holding a Schengen visa, dictating how long they can stay within the Schengen Area. It states that you can stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area. These 90 days can be consecutive or spread across multiple trips. However, the cumulative stay within the Schengen Area must not exceed 90 days in any rolling 180-day window.
Understanding the rule:
Rolling period: The 180 days are counted on a rolling basis, meaning each day you are in the Schengen Area, the 180-day period shifts forward by one day. For instance, if you stay from January 1 to March 31, you can return on May 1 but must leave by July 30 (the next 90-day window).
Multiple entries: The rule applies regardless of whether you are on a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. If you leave the Schengen Area and re-enter, the days spent inside are still counted towards your 90-day limit.
Tracking your days: It’s important to keep track of the number of days you’ve spent in the Schengen Area during the last 180 days. Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, or a ban from re-entering the Schengen Area in the future.
Example:
If you enter the Schengen Area on January 1 and stay for 30 days, you have 60 more days to use within the next 150 days.
If you leave and return after 60 days, say on April 1, you can stay for another 60 days, completing your 90 days within that rolling 180-day period.
Note: You must not overstay. If you exceed the 90-day limit, you may face penalties, including fines, deportation, or a ban on re-entering the Schengen Area. Each country within the Schengen Zone may handle overstays differently, but the consequences are generally severe.
How to check available appointment dates for a Belgium visa for Indians?
With the help of the Atlys Schengen visa appointment tracker, you can now check the available appointment dates for the Belgium visa.
Eligibility & Requirements
What are the Belgium visa requirements for Indians?
Here are the Belgium tourist visa requirements for Indians:
Visa application form
Passport photo
Valid passport
Previous Schengen visa
Proof of travel purpose
Proof of financial means
Proof of mode of transport
Proof of accommodation
Travel insurance
Visa application form:
The Belgium visa application form is to be filled out online.
Passport photo:
One recent passport-sized photograph that meets Belgium's specific requirements (e.g., white background, no older than 6 months).
With Atlys, you cannot only upload your passport-size photo but also click the picture of yours using your smartphone or desktop camera. Atlys automatically adjusts the photo to meet the country's requirements without hassle.
Valid passport:
Original and a copy of passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area. It must have been issued within the last 10 years and contain at least two blank pages.
With Atlys, you cannot only upload your passport pictures but also take a picture of your passport using your smartphone or desktop camera.
Previous Schengen visa:
If available, submit a copy of your most recent Schengen visa.
Proof of travel purpose:
Provide a clear and concise cover letter outlining your personal information, the purpose of the visit, financial means and intent to return. Also, provide a travel itinerary.
Atlys will help you with a customizable cover letter during the application process, free of cost.
Proof of financial means:
The government needs proof of your capability to fund your stay. For this, you must submit bank account statements for the last three months, ITR acknowledgement for the last two years, payslips for the last 3 months, employer contract and employer’s statement on approval of holidays.
Proof of mode of transport:
Provide proof of roundtrip tickets and proof of intra-Schengen flight reservation, train itinerary, or car rental if you are travelling to several Schengen States.
Atlys provides flight reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.
Proof of accommodation:
Submit the proof of accommodation for your entire stay in Belgium. If invited, submit an invitation letter signed by the inviting person and duly notarised in Belgium.
Atlys provides hotel reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.
Travel insurance:
You must have travel insurance that is valid for all Schengen Countries. It should cover at least €30,000 or equivalent for all risks for the entire duration of the trip.
Note: Depending on the specific circumstances mentioned in the visa application, additional documents will be required. For example, you will need a sponsorship letter if your trip is sponsored.
What documents are required for minors applying for a Belgium tourist visa?
Minors applying for a Belgium visa must provide the following additional documents:
If the minor is travelling with only one parent, written consent certified by a public notary of the other parent or guardian, except in cases of a parent having sole custody or guardianship of the minor, in which case a court order or other proof of sole custody or guardianship must be provided;
If the minor travels alone (without parents), written consent, certified by a public notary, of both parents or guardians having custody or guardianship of the minor;
Copy of identification document(s) (with signature and photograph) of the parent(s)/guardians having custody/guardianship of the applicant.
Tip: Ensure that all documents are notarised and that you have originals and copies available at the visa appointment.
Can I apply for a Belgium Schengen visa without a confirmed flight booking?
Yes, you can apply for a Belgium Schengen visa without a confirmed flight booking. However, you will need to provide a flight itinerary or reservation that outlines your intended travel dates and destinations.
Atlys provides verifiable flight reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.
Can I apply for a Belgium Schengen visa if my accommodation is not confirmed?
Yes, you can apply for a Belgium Schengen visa without confirmed accommodation, but you still need to show proof of where you plan to stay. This can include temporary hotel bookings or an invitation letter from friends or family who will be hosting you.
The consulate requires this to ensure that you have arrangements in place for your stay. Even if your plans are not finalized, providing a reservation or written confirmation of your accommodation will satisfy this requirement during the visa application process.
Atlys provides verifiable hotel reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.
Is travel insurance mandatory for a Belgium Schengen visa?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory when applying for a Belgium Schengen visa. Additionally, the travel insurance must meet the following criteria:
The minimum coverage shall be €30,000.00.
The insurance shall be valid throughout the territory of the Schengen States.
It should cover the entire period of the person’s intended stay or transit in the Schengen Area.
The travel insurance should cover any expenses that might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention, emergency hospital treatment, or death during the stay(s) on the territory of the Member States.
If applying for a multiple-entry visa, ensure your travel insurance covers your first trip and renew it as necessary for subsequent trips.
Approved insurance providers: Ensure the Schengen countries recognise your insurance provider. You can find a list of approved Indian travel insurance companies on the VAC’s website.
Atlys provides travel insurance that meets Schengen visa requirements at a minimal cost.
What are the Belgium visa photo requirements for Indians?
It is mandatory that your photograph meets the Belgium visa photo requirements mentioned below:
Size: 35 mm x 45 mm (width x height).
Head size: The head should occupy 70-80% of the photo.
Colour: The photo must be in colour and have a plain white or light grey background.
Face position: The applicant's face must be centred and looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression.
Eyes: Eyes should be open and clearly visible, without any reflections or obstructions.
Glasses: If you wear glasses, make sure the lenses are free of glare or reflections and your eyes are clearly visible. Avoid wearing tinted glasses.
Headwear: Headwear is not allowed unless it is for religious reasons. In such cases, the face must be fully visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead, and the edges of the face must be visible.
Tip: Ensure your photos meet these requirements exactly, as failure to do so can lead to delays or rejection of your application.
What is the minimum bank balance required for a Belgium tourist visa?
While Belgium does not have a fixed minimum bank balance requirement, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in the Schengen Area. A general guideline is to show a minimum balance of around €60-70 per day of stay, translating to approximately €1,800 to €2,100 for a 30-day stay.
You can demonstrate your financial stability by providing recent bank statements and pay slips. If you are being sponsored, your sponsor will need to provide a sponsorship letter along with their financial documents, such as bank statements and proof of income, to show that they can support your stay.
What can I do if my bank balance fluctuates significantly?
If your bank balance fluctuates significantly, it’s important to provide additional context to avoid raising concerns with the visa officer:
Provide explanations: If there are large deposits or withdrawals, include a brief explanation in your cover letter. For instance, if a large deposit is from a property sale or an annual bonus, mention this.
Submit additional proof: Provide other financial documents, such as fixed deposits, mutual funds, or property documents, to demonstrate overall financial stability.
Tip: Be transparent about your financial situation and ensure all documents are in order to avoid suspicion or delays.
Can I show multiple sources of income to strengthen my Belgium visa application?
Yes, you can show multiple sources of income to strengthen your visa application. Apart from the pay slips, bank statements and ITR, you can include proof of income from investments, rentals, or other sources. If someone else is sponsoring your trip, include their financial documents along with a sponsorship letter.
Tip: Clearly list and explain all income sources in your cover letter to provide a comprehensive view of your financial situation.
Are income tax returns mandatory for a Belgium visa application?
Yes, income tax returns (ITR) for the past two years are generally mandatory when applying for a Belgium visa. The ITR documents help demonstrate your financial stability and regular income, which are crucial for proving that you can support yourself during your stay in Belgium and will return to India after your visit.
What should I do if I haven’t filed income tax returns for the past two years?
If you haven't filed income tax returns (ITRs) for the past two years, this may pose a challenge for your visa application. However, you can take the following steps to address the situation:
Provide a cover letter: Write a cover letter explaining why you haven’t filed ITRs. Common reasons might include recent employment, income below the taxable threshold, or being a dependent.
Submit alternative documents: Include other financial documents that prove your income and financial stability, such as bank statements, salary slips, or investment documents.
Sponsor's ITR: If someone else is sponsoring your trip, submit their ITRs along with a sponsorship letter to strengthen your application.
I am a housewife with no independent income. What are the documents I can submit to get my Belgium visa approved?
Being a housewife with no independent income is not an issue as long as you clearly demonstrate that your financial needs during the trip will be met. You can do so by providing the following documents to support your Belgium visa application:
Sponsorship letter: Obtain a sponsorship letter from your spouse or a close family member who will sponsor your trip. The letter should clearly state the relationship between you and the sponsor and their commitment to covering your travel expenses.
Sponsor’s financial documents: Submit your sponsor’s bank statements, income tax returns, and salary slips as proof of financial support.
Proof of relationship: Depending on your relationship with the sponsor, include a copy of the document (like a marriage certificate) that establishes your relationship with your sponsor.
Proof of shared assets: If applicable, provide documents showing jointly owned property or bank accounts, which further prove your financial stability.
I am unemployed. Can I still get a Belgium tourist visa?
Yes, you can get a Belgium visa even if you are unemployed.
However, in addition to bank statements, you must provide additional documentation to demonstrate your ability to support yourself during your stay. These can include:
Proof of passive income: Submit documents showing regular income from passive sources, such as ITR, rental agreements, dividend statements, or interest income from investments.
Property or investment documents: If applicable, provide proof of ownership of assets that generate passive income, such as property deeds or investment certificates.
What financial documents are required by businessmen to apply for a Belgium visa?
If you are a businessman, you can demonstrate financial stability by showing the following documents:
Business financial statements: Submit the latest financial statements of your business, such as profit and loss accounts, balance sheets, and bank statements, covering at least six months.
Company registration documents: Provide copies of your business registration documents, including your GST certificate, company PAN card, and incorporation certificate.
Business tax returns: Include your business’s income tax returns for the past two years to demonstrate financial health and stability.
Invitation letter: If travelling for business purposes, include an invitation letter from your Belgian business partner or the organisation you will be visiting. The letter should outline the purpose and duration of your visit.
Tip: In your cover letter, clearly link your business activities to the purpose of your visit to establish the legitimacy of your trip.
How can a retired individual succeed in applying for a Belgium Schengen visa?
If you are retired, you can succeed in your Belgium visa application by demonstrating that you have sufficient funds and a clear purpose for your visit. Here’s what to include:
Pension statements: Provide your pension statements for the past six months as proof of a steady income stream.
Bank statements: Submit bank statements showing a healthy balance and consistent pension credits.
Proof of savings or investments: Include documents showing savings or investments that contribute to your financial stability, such as fixed deposits, mutual funds, or property ownership.
Retirement proof: Provide a copy of your retirement certificate or letter from your previous employer confirming your retirement status.
Travel itinerary and accommodation: Clearly outline your travel plans and accommodation arrangements in Belgium.
Sponsor's documents: If a family member is sponsoring your trip, include a sponsorship letter and proof of their financial capacity to support your stay.
How can I show strong ties to India when applying for a Belgium tourist visa?
To convince the consular officer that you will return to India after your trip, you need to demonstrate strong ties to your home country. This can done by providing the following documents:
Employment proof: If employed, provide a letter from your employer confirming your position, salary, and approved leave. Mention that your job will be waiting for you upon return.
Property ownership: Submit documents proving ownership of property or real estate in India, such as a house or land. This applies to anyone, including retirees, housewives, or unemployed individuals, as property ownership demonstrates strong roots in India.
Family ties: Show family ties by providing marriage certificates or birth certificates of your dependent children. This is particularly relevant for housewives or those not employed, as showing your family responsibilities reinforces your commitment to returning home.
Educational commitments: If you are a student, include a letter from your educational institution confirming your enrollment and the date of your return to continue your studies.
The more evidence you provide of your ties to India, the stronger your case for returning home after your trip.
How can I prove the purpose of my trip when applying for a Belgium tourist visa?
You can prove the purpose of your trip by providing the following documents:
Tourism: Hotel reservations, a detailed travel itinerary, and return flight tickets.
Business: An invitation letter from a company or business partner in the Schengen Area, along with details of meetings or conferences you plan to attend.
Family visit: An invitation letter from your host in the Schengen Country, along with their proof of residence and relationship to you.
Tip: Be as specific as possible in your cover letter, detailing the activities and plans during your stay to strengthen your application.
Do I need a cover letter for my Schengen visa?
Yes, a cover letter is typically required for a Schengen visa application. Make sure that it includes:
Personal information: Your name, address, and passport number.
Purpose of visit: A detailed explanation of why you’re visiting (tourism, business, family visit).
Itinerary: Your travel dates, accommodation, and places you plan to visit.
Financial means: State how you’ll finance your trip and attach supporting documents.
Intent to return: Explain your ties to your home country, ensuring you’ll return after your trip.
Atlys will help you with a customizable cover letter during the application process, free of cost.
I’ll be staying with a friend in Belgium. Do I need an invitation letter?
Yes, if you’re staying with a friend in the Schengen Area, you will need an invitation letter from them.
A Schengen invitation letter is a document provided by someone you plan to visit in the Schengen Area, stating that they invite you and will accommodate you during your stay. The letter should typically include:
Your friend’s information: Name, address, and a copy of their passport or residency permit.
Accommodation details: Confirmation that they will host you during your stay.
Relationship: A brief explanation of your relationship with the host and the purpose of your visit.
Can I apply for a Belgium Schengen visa if I am currently residing in a country other than India?
Yes, you can apply for a Schengen visa from a country other than India if you are legally residing in that country. You will need to provide proof of legal residency, such as a residence permit or visa, along with your application.
Tip: Ensure that your residency status in the country where you are applying is valid for at least three months beyond your planned return to India.
What should I do if my passport is set to expire soon, but I need to apply for a Belgium visa?
If your passport is set to expire soon, it is advisable to renew it before applying for a Belgium visa. To apply for a Schengen visa, it is mandatory that your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.
What if I only have one empty page left in my passport, but my passport has not expired?
If your passport has only one empty page left, it may suffice for the visa to be issued. However, it is important to note that immigration authorities at your destination might require additional empty spaces for entry and exit stamps.
Recommendation: It is advisable to renew your passport if you have limited blank pages remaining. An Indian passport renewal through the 'Tatkal' (express) service typically takes around 3 days.
Can I apply for a Belgium visa if I have overstayed on a previous visa?
Yes, you can apply for a Belgium visa if you have overstayed on a previous visa, but you must be prepared to explain the circumstances of the overstay and provide evidence that it was unintentional or unavoidable.
A clear and honest explanation, along with supporting documents (such as medical records if the overstay was due to health reasons), can help mitigate the negative impact of a previous overstay.
How do I get a multiple-entry Schengen visa?
To obtain a multiple-entry Schengen visa, particularly under the new rules favourable for Indian nationals, follow these steps:
Establish a travel history: First, obtain and lawfully use two Schengen visas within the previous three years.
Apply for a multiple-entry visa: After meeting the above condition, apply for a multiple-entry visa, which can be valid for up to two years initially. If you use this visa correctly, you can then apply for a five-year multiple-entry visa.
Ensure passport validity: Ensure your passport has sufficient validity to cover the entire duration of the multiple-entry visa you seek.
Provide strong justifications: Your application should include reasons for needing multiple entries, such as frequent business trips, family visits, or ongoing travel requirements.
Use the Cascade Regime: The Visa Code Regulation (EC) No 810/2009 governs the issuance of Schengen visas. Under the EU's "cascade" regime, Indian nationals can progress from a two-year visa to a five-year visa, enjoying travel rights similar to visa-free nationals if all conditions are met.
For more detailed guidance, visit the European External Action Service.
Application Process
How to apply for a Belgium visa from India?
Here’s how you can apply for the Belgium tourist visa from India:
Gather Your Documents
Log in to Atlys
Book Your Appointment
Submit Your Documents at the Centre
Pay the Visa Fee
Receive Your Visa
Gather Your Documents:
Start by collecting all the required documents, such as your valid passport, the last three months’ bank statements, payslips, income tax returns, and any other documents listed in the requirements.
Login to Atlys:
Visit the Atlys website or open the mobile app. Select Belgium as your destination.
Book Your Appointment:
Fill in your details, upload the necessary documents, and pay the appointment fee. Once you're done, you’ll receive a confirmation for your visa appointment.
Submit Your Documents:
Go to the visa application center on your scheduled date. Atlys will arrange for your documents to be submitted in the correct order. During your visit, you’ll also complete the required biometrics (fingerprints and facial scans).
Pay the Atlys & Service Fee:
Pay the Atlys Fee and wait for the processing, including travel insurance and courier fees, to be completed.
Receive Your Visa:
Once approved, your passport with the Belgium tourist visa stamp will be delivered directly to your home.
Tip: Begin your visa application process at least 6-8 weeks before your planned travel date to account for processing time and any unforeseen delays.
How does the Schengen visa look like?
Here is a sample of the Schengen visa:
Do I need to submit my passport for Belgium tourist visa processing?
Yes, you will need to submit your passport for Belgium visa processing. The passport is required for identity verification, for checking your travel history, and for affixing the visa sticker if approved.
Once your visa is approved, you can collect the passport from the visa application centre or get it delivered to your doorstep if you opt for a courier service.
Is an interview mandatory when applying for a Belgium Schengen visa?
No, a consular interview is typically not mandatory for getting a visa to Belgium. Applicants who meet the standard criteria and provide complete documentation do not need to attend an interview.
However, the consular officer may request one under special circumstances, such as:
If there are inconsistencies in the application,
Unclear travel intentions, or
If the applicant has a criminal background, and so, additional information about it is needed.
This ensures that any potential concerns are addressed before a visa decision is made.
Can I expedite the processing of my Belgium tourist visa application?
No, there is no official expedited processing service for Schengen visas. That is why it is essential to apply well in advance and ensure your application is complete and accurate to prevent any further delay.
What can I do to ensure my Belgium visa application is approved?
To increase your chances of a successful Belgium visa application, bear in mind the following points:
Complete and correct documentation: Ensure all required documents are accurate, complete, and meet the specified requirements. Always be truthful and transparent in your application. Any inconsistencies or false information can lead to immediate rejection.
Clear purpose of visit: Ambiguities in your travel purpose, itinerary, or reasons for visiting can lead to rejection. Ensure that you provide a believable and coherent travel plan that aligns with your stated purpose of visit. Your travel itinerary should align with the flight tickets and hotel reservations.
Sufficient financial proof: Clearly demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Belgium and other Schengen States if visiting.
Valid travel insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that meets the mandatory coverage requirements.
Strong proof of ties to India: Failure to prove strong ties to India could indicate a risk of overstaying. You must provide strong evidence, such as an employment letter, property deed or family ties, that clearly shows the authorities that you will not overstay.
Recommended: For detailed insight, read our blog on the common Schengen visa rejection reasons and how to avoid them.
Can I include multiple family members in one Schengen visa application?
No, each family member must submit a separate Schengen visa application, including children and infants. Each applicant must meet the requirements and provide their own set of documents.
Tip: When applying as a family, submit all applications together to ensure they are processed simultaneously and to streamline the appointment process.
Status Tracking
What is the Belgium visa processing time for Indians
The Belgium visa processing time for Indians typically takes 15 working days from the receipt of a complete application.
However, it may get extended up to 30 calendar days and even, exceptionally, 60 calendar days. This happens when a more detailed examination of your application and/or additional documents are required. In that case, your application will be sent to the Immigration Office in Belgium, which will make the final decision.
How can I check the status of my Belgium tourist visa application online?
You can easily track the status of your Belgium visa application using the Atlys Belgium visa status tracking tool.
Entry & Exit Regulations
Can I work remotely while on a Belgium tourist visa?
No, you cannot legally work remotely or engage in any form of employment while on a Belgium tourist visa. The visa is intended for tourism, leisure, or short-term visits, not for work purposes. If caught working remotely, you could face penalties, deportation, and future visa bans.
If you plan to work remotely while travelling in the Schengen Area, you should apply for a specific visa that allows for this type of activity, such as a digital nomad visa, where available.
What happens if I lose my passport with a Belgium visa while travelling?
If you lose your passport with a Belgium visa while travelling, you should immediately report the loss to the local police and obtain a police report. You will then need to visit the nearest Indian embassy or consulate to apply for an emergency passport. You can also inquire about the possibility of reissuing the visa.
Tip: Always keep photocopies of your passport, visa, and other important documents separate from the originals. This precaution will make it easier to replace your documents if they are lost or stolen while travelling.
My visa expires on August 15, 2024. I am leaving on August 14, 2024. Is that okay?
Yes, it is perfectly fine to leave the Schengen Area on August 14, 2024, a day before your visa expires. You are required to exit the Schengen Area before or on the last day of your visa validity, which in this case is August 15, 2024.
Tip: Always ensure your travel plans align with the visa validity period to avoid overstaying, which could result in penalties or future visa issues.
What should I do if my Belgium visa is approved but I need to change my travel dates?
If your Belgium visa is approved but your travel dates change, you can still use the visa as long as the new travel dates fall within the visa’s validity period. However, if your new travel dates are outside the visa’s validity, you will need to apply for a new visa.
Can I bring prescription medication into Belgium on a Schengen visa?
Yes, you can bring prescription medication into Belgium on a Schengen visa, but you should carry a prescription or a doctor’s letter that includes important information, such as your name, the name of the medication, dosage, usage and the prescribed amount on the official letterhead.
Can I bring my pet to Belgium with a Schengen visa?
Yes, you can bring your pet to Belgium with a Schengen visa, but there are specific requirements you must meet:
Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip.
Rabies vaccination: Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies, and the vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before travel.
Veterinary certificate: If travelling from outside the EU, a third-country official veterinary certificate is required.
Tapeworm treatment: Dogs must be treated for tapeworm 24-120 hours before entering Belgium.
Tip: You must check the specific pet import requirements for Belgium and the Schengen Area well in advance of your trip to ensure compliance.
Refunds, Rejections & Reapplications
Will I get a refund if my Belgium visa application is rejected?
Generally, the Belgium Schengen visa fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is rejected. Still, when applied from Atlys, under Atlys Protect (free), you are eligible for a refund.
What can I do if my Belgium visa application is rejected?
If your Belgium tourist visa application is rejected, you have two options:
Reapply: You can reapply after addressing the reasons for rejection, ensuring all documents are complete and accurate. If reapplying, consider seeking help from an authorised visa service provider to increase your chances of success.
Appeal: Alternatively, you can appeal the decision within 30 days of the rejection date. To do so, gather any missing documents or information and write a compelling appeal letter explaining why your visa should be granted.
For further details, read our complete guide on the Schengen visa reapplication and appeal process.
Visa Extension & Overstays
What should I do if I need to extend my stay in Belgium for medical reasons?
If you need to extend your stay in Belgium for medical reasons, you can apply for a visa extension at the local immigration office in Belgium. You will need to provide:
Medical certificate: A certificate from a Belgian medical professional explaining the medical necessity for your extended stay.
Proof of insurance: Evidence that your travel insurance covers the extended period.
Financial proof: Proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during the extended stay.
Note: You must apply for the extension before your current visa expires and ensure that all documentation is thorough and convincing.