GoBelgium Visa Requirements

Visa Entry

The issuance of Belgian visas mainly depends on the purpose and duration of stay of foreign tourists traveling to Belgium, and there are mainly two types: C and D. C visa is a short-term visa, which allows the holder to stay for up to 90 days within 180 days, for the purpose of short-term visits, family visits, visiting friends, and tourism; D visa is a long-term visa with a stay period of more than 90 days and a maximum validity period of one year. The holder can work, study or reunite with relatives in the country and reside for a long time.

Chinese citizens, regardless of the type of visa they apply for, must provide valid travel documents such as a passport to the Chinese embassy or consulate in China (usually valid for at least 6 months beyond the expected departure time from the Schengen area), fill out the visa application form as required, and attach two identical ID photos.

Please refer to the website of the Belgian Visa Center for specific materials required by the applicant http://www.vfsglobal.cn/belgium/china/Chinese/index.html ）

1、 Short term stay visa (C type)

Suitable for one or multiple entries into Schengen countries (groups) for tourism, visiting relatives and friends, vocational training, business, conferences, exhibitions, cultural and sports exchanges, etc., with a cumulative limit of no more than 90 days within 180 days in 26 Schengen countries. Applicants should apply to the main destination country or the Schengen embassy in China.

Applying for a short-term visa generally requires the applicant to apply 1-2 months in advance and provide:

（1） Documents proving the purpose of the trip (such as invitation letters) and proof of accommodation during the stay (such as hotel bookings, private residences);

（2） Round trip airfare orders;

（3） Travel insurance with a minimum coverage of 30000 euros;

（4） Proof of sufficient living expenses and return funds during the stay;

（5） Fingerprint and other biometric information;

（6） If you plan to go to Bi for medical treatment, you must provide a confirmation document from the Bi hospital or attending physician agreeing to the appointment;

（7） If you plan to go for a short-term internship, you must provide a certificate issued by the internship company stating the purpose of the internship. The certificate should indicate the duration of stay, whether there is remuneration, and whether the living and housing expenses are borne by the company.

The financial proof can be the applicant's personal financial proof or the guarantor's financial guarantee proof. Personal financial proof can be bank statements from the past three months. The guarantor can be a Belgian or a foreigner living in a relatively long time. The scope of guarantee includes the living expenses, return expenses, and medical expenses of foreign tourists during their stay. The guarantor should obtain a guarantee letter from the district government where they reside (it is not required that the guarantor be an inviter). The original guarantee letter certified by the district government, along with the following materials, must be submitted to the relevant embassy or consulate within 6 months after obtaining certification.

According to the Agreement between China and the European Union on Mutual Exemption of Short term Stay Visa for Diplomatic Passport Holders, starting from March 3, 2016, citizens of China and the European Union holding valid diplomatic passports or EU passports who travel to the other contracting party and stay for a maximum of 90 days per 180 days are exempt from visa application. This agreement does not apply to Ireland.

2、 Long term stay visa (D type)

It is applicable to foreigners, reciprocal students and research scholars who stay in a Schengen country for more than 90 days, study, work, and reunite with their families. If the destination is Belgium, one can only apply to the Belgian embassy or consulate abroad. Holders must apply for a residence permit at the relevant department within 3 months of arrival. During the validity period of the visa, they can stay in another country within the Schengen area for a cumulative period of 180 days, not exceeding 90 days.

When applying for a long-term visa, you need to provide:

（1） Proof of economic sources (financial guarantees) during the stay in Belgium;

（2） Travel insurance with a minimum coverage of 30000 euros;

（3） A medical examination certificate issued by a hospital designated by the embassy or consulate abroad (valid for 6 months);

（4） Notarized and authenticated certificate of no criminal record (valid for 6 months);

（5） Remittance voucher for payment of management fees to the Foreign Affairs Bureau of the Belgian Ministry of the Interior.

In addition, depending on the purpose of entry, the following certificates or documents need to be submitted:

1. Long term learning

(1) Admission notices or registration certificates issued by universities or higher education institutions recognized by the government;

(2) Notarization of academic qualifications and degrees, as well as proof documents such as the transcript of the last academic year issued by the institution, indicating the possibility of continuing to receive higher education;

(3) Proof of economic guarantee document.

2. Long term work

Compared to government issued work permits or official certificates indicating exemption from work permits.

3. Family reunion

Belgian citizens and family members of Chinese citizens with permanent residency in Belgium can apply for this type of visa based on family relationships, including spouses, children (Chinese citizens with permanent residency are limited to under 18 years old, while Belgian Chinese citizens can be relaxed to under 21 years old), and parents.

(1) A copy of the identity card, passport, or residence permit of Belgian citizens who reunite with them or Chinese citizens who have permanent residency in Belgium;

(2) A notarized certificate (valid for 6 months) issued by the civil affairs department to prove the family or bloodline relationship (such as marriage certificate, birth certificate);

(3) Proof of sufficient housing provided after reunion, such as Belgian property certificates or officially registered rental contracts;

(4) Proof of stable and sufficient solvency of the reunited individuals in Belgium;

(5) Proof that the person reuniting in Belgium has joined a mutual insurance company and that the insurance covers all family members;

After arriving in Belgium, holders of family reunion visas must report to the Belgian municipal authorities and obtain a residence permit valid for one year or more after examination and approval. If the marriage relationship submitted during the application is found to be invalid or fraudulent, the aforementioned residence permit will be revoked.

4. Reciprocal student

Young reciprocal students must obtain a work permit before working with their host family.

5. Researchers

(1) Invitation letter from Belgian universities or inviting institutions;

(2) Work permit obtained by the Belgian inviting party or employer through the regional employment service agency (except in cases where proof of exemption from work permit can be provided)

3、 Notes on Visa Application

1. The above-mentioned visa application materials are basic materials, and the embassy or consulate abroad has the right to require the applicant to submit other materials.

2. To avoid unnecessary losses, when applying for a visa, you can provide the flight ticket order first, and confirm the purchase of the flight ticket when obtaining approval to issue the visa.

3. Foreign embassies and consulates may require students to provide a school issued certificate of vacation or leave approval.

4. There are more procedures than visa approval, so it is advisable to submit the application as early as possible. Short term visas with a stay period of no more than 90 days generally require an application 1 to 2 months in advance. The visa application must be submitted by the applicant in person at the visa application center in China and verbally explain the purpose of the trip and relevant information.

5. If the application is rejected, the embassy or consulate in China will inform the applicant of the reasons for the rejection, and the application fee will not be refunded.

6. Minors under the age of 16, who have the same nationality and have been added to the adult's passport, may use the same passport as their accompanying parents, grandparents, or guardians. Otherwise, one should have a valid personal international travel document. Minors traveling alone with someone other than their parents should have a consent statement signed by their parents or guardians. This statement must be certified by the local government. If parents divorce and a child travels with one of them, the consent of the other party is required.

7. Holding a regular one-time entry Schengen visa can only enter and exit Schengen countries once. Once entering the Schengen area, including short-term airport transfers, one cannot return after leaving. Holders of multiple entry and exit Schengen visas are allowed to enter and exit Schengen countries multiple times within the validity period, but the cumulative stay time cannot exceed 90 days within 180 days.

8. After arriving with a valid visa, the person must personally go to the municipal government where they reside to register and sign the arrival declaration. Holding this statement allows for a maximum stay of 3 months, except for visas indicating a stay of less than 90 days.

9. Chinese notarized documents used must be accompanied by a French, Dutch, or English translation.

10. Even if holding a valid visa issued by the embassy or consulate in China or other Schengen countries, border inspectors have the right to refuse entry to visa holders.

11. Not issuing landing visas to Chinese citizens.

Customs epidemic prevention and control

The quantity of tax-free carry on items (for personal use only, not for commodity trading) entering the country is as follows:

1、 Passengers traveling from other EU countries (some EU countries and regions may have different policies) are allowed to carry 800 cigarettes, 400 cigars, 200 cigars, and 1 kilogram of tobacco; 110 liters of beer, 90 liters of other alcoholic beverages (including a maximum of 60 liters of sparkling wine, 20 liters of aperitif, and 10 liters of spirits).

2、 Passengers arriving from non EU countries are allowed to carry 200 cigarettes, 100 cigars, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco; 16 liters of beer, 4 liters of other alcoholic beverages, 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of alcoholic beverages below 22 degrees Celsius, or 2 liters of sparkling wine. Only passengers aged 17 and above (inclusive) are allowed to carry tobacco and alcohol items.

3、 Some animals, plants, finished products, gunpowder, weapons, and counterfeit luxury goods are prohibited from entering the country. The list of restricted flora and fauna can be found on the website www.votresouvenir.be

4、 Some antiques, artworks, and religious items cannot be brought into the country without special permission.

5、 Passengers entering or leaving non EU countries and traveling to non EU countries with cash or equivalent securities exceeding 10000 euros need to declare to customs.

6、 Upon entry, luggage is subject to random inspection by customs. If there are no declared items, after obtaining the luggage, follow the passage in the direction of the non declaration sign directly to the immigration hall. Due to possible changes in customs policies, please refer to the website of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for specific information https://diplomatie.belgium.be/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/douane .

Residency and Naturalization

Both husband and wife are Chinese citizens, and if their children are born in Belgium, they have Chinese nationality. If either parent holds Belgian nationality, children born in Belgium can acquire Belgian nationality. According to the Chinese Nationality Law, China does not recognize dual nationality. Both or one of the parents are Chinese citizens, and the individual was born in Belgium and holds Chinese nationality; But if both or one of the parents is a Chinese citizen and resides in Belgium, and the person was born with Belgian nationality, they do not have Chinese nationality.

Foreign immigrants can apply for Belgian citizenship under the "Declaration Law" or "Naturalization Law" of Belgian nationality law.

The "Declaration Law" applies to five types of foreign immigrants who meet the following conditions:

1. (1) Has reached the age of eighteen;

(2) And born in Belgium, legally residing in Belgium from the date of birth;

2. (1) At least 18 years old;

(2) Have been legally residing in Belgium for more than five years;

(3) Can prove proficiency in one of the three official languages;

(4) Can prove its ability to integrate into society:

(5) Alternatively, possessing diplomas or certificates issued by schools recognized by the Belgian Ministry of Education or the Royal Military Academy, with a level not lower than equivalent to a high school diploma;

Alternatively, it can be demonstrated that at least 400 hours of vocational training courses have been completed in institutions recognized by the authorities;

Alternatively, it can be proven that they have completed the integration course within the administrative area under their primary place of residence;

Alternatively, in the first five years of the application, there has been continuous employment, which can be as an employee, civil servant, or independent worker;

(6) Can prove participation in economic activities:

Alternatively, within the first five years of application, there must be at least 468 days of employee or civil servant work records;

Alternatively, in the first five years of application, as an independent worker, at least six quarters of social insurance contributions have been paid;

3. (1) At least 18 years old;

(2) Have been legally residing in Belgium for more than five years;

(3) Can prove proficiency in one of the three official languages;

(4) The spouse is of Belgian nationality and has lived together for at least three years, or is the parent of a Belgian nationality child who is under the age of 18 or has not obtained independent civil capacity;

(5) Can prove its ability to integrate into society:

Alternatively, possessing diplomas or certificates issued by schools recognized by the Belgian Ministry of Education or the Royal Military Academy, with a level not lower than equivalent to a high school diploma;

Alternatively, it can be proven that the individual has completed at least 400 hours of vocational training courses at institutions recognized by the authorities, and has at least 234 days of employee or civil servant work records in the first five years of the application, or has paid social insurance contributions for at least three quarters as an independent worker in the first five years of the application;

Alternatively, it can be proven that they have completed the integration course within the administrative area under their primary place of residence;

4. (1) At least 18 years old;

(2) Have been legally residing in Belgium for more than five years;

(3) Can prove that due to their disability, they are unable to engage in employment or self employment, or have reached retirement age;

5. (1) At least 18 years old;

(2) Have been legally residing in Belgium for more than five years;

(3) Can prove proficiency in one of the three official languages;

(4) Prove in any way that they actively integrate into the local society and participate in the economic, social, and cultural activities of the local community.

The naturalization law applies to foreign immigrants who meet the following conditions:

1. Be at least 18 years old;

2. Residing legally in Belgium;

3. In Belgium, outstanding achievements in science, sports, social and cultural fields have earned Belgium a special reputation internationally;

4. Explain the reasons why it is impossible to obtain Belgian nationality through a declaration.

For detailed regulations on naturalization, please refer to the Belgian Nationality Law: http://www.droitbelge.be/codes.asp#nat

Belgium risk level is blue (low risk)

public security

As the headquarters of the European Union, NATO, and many other international organizations, Brussels, the capital, has a large number of people coming and going. In recent years, the social security coefficient has decreased and the pressure of public security work has sharply increased. Theft cases targeting Chinese citizens occur from time to time in densely populated areas such as train stations, airports, hotels, parking lots, and tourist attractions.

It is recommended that Chinese citizens traveling here use credit cards as much as possible during the comparison period, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with them, and pay attention to keeping money and valuables scattered, especially important documents such as passports. After being stolen or robbed, one should promptly report to the police station. The emergency hotline is 101.

If your passport is lost, please immediately follow the following procedure to apply for a replacement document:

（1） Report to the police station and request a police report (the purpose is to prove the reason why one does not have a travel document when verifying identity with relevant departments in the host country, and there is no need to present a police report when applying for a replacement document at the embassy);

（2） Prepare copies of passport and Chinese ID card, as well as 3 recent ID photos;

（3） If necessary, contact the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the Chinese Embassy in Belgium (call 027632006 within Belgium);

（4） Apply for reissuance of documents through the "Chinese Consul" app, or make an appointment to visit the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the Chinese Embassy in Belgium at 439 Avenue de Tervuren, 1150, Bruxelles， Consultation hotline: 026633001, insurance claim hotline: 027632006) to handle the procedures for reissuing the certificate.

natural disaster

More abundant rainfall than usual, some areas may experience floods and waterlogging disasters. When there is heavy snowfall in winter, airports and highways may be closed. Before traveling, it is necessary to check the weather forecast, listen to and watch local radio, newspapers, and television, and keep abreast of weather changes in a timely manner.

FDA

Compared to food hygiene and safety standards, the relevant regulations are strictly enforced, and all types of food can generally be consumed with confidence.

Urgent Help

112 "is a free emergency call number within the European Union that can be dialed in case of accidents, medical assistance, or fires. Taking medical assistance as an example, when you dial the 112 emergency call number, please be sure to provide the following information to the operator: your name, contact number, the location of the medical assistance needed, basic information about the emergency, injury, and danger encountered, the number of people in need of assistance, and the emergency measures taken.

Please listen to the operator's advice before hanging up the phone. It is best to wait on site until the ambulance arrives before leaving. It should be noted that the 112 call number can only be made in the event of a truly urgent situation. When encountering small traffic accidents or minor illnesses, one should first consider consulting a doctor. Never call this number for free, in order to avoid legal responsibility for an 'unwelcome joke'.

air traffic

Brussels Airport is located 13 kilometers northeast of the city center and can be directly accessed by train every 20 minutes. You can also take a taxi to the city center, which costs about 45 euros, but you need to make a reservation with the taxi company in advance.

Brussels Airport website: www.brusselsairport.be， Duty phone number: 0032- (0) 90070000.

Sharova International Airport is about an hour's drive from Brussels and mainly operates low-cost flights between Belgium and other European countries.

At present, China Hainan Airlines has opened direct flights from Beijing to Brussels and from Shenzhen to Brussels. If you need to book tickets, you can contact Hainan Airlines' major city branches in China or Hainan Airlines' Brussels office.

land transport

Brussels is approximately 200-300 kilometers away from Paris, London, Amsterdam, Bonn, and Luxembourg. When driving, one must follow the right-hand drive rule, with a speed limit of 120 kilometers per hour on highways and 90 kilometers per hour on certain sections. The road conditions are better, but some traffic rules are different from those in China, especially the signs are written in French, Dutch or German. It is recommended that personnel make corresponding preparations.

According to the "Agreement on Mutual Recognition of Driving Licenses" signed by the governments of China and Belgium in 1994, Chinese mainland driving licenses can be used in Belgium, but they need to be translated and notarized domestically in advance. Mainland Chinese driver's licenses can also be exchanged for Belgian driver's licenses. When applying for the exchange, it is necessary to ask a translation agency designated by the Belgian court to translate the Chinese driver's license into the local language, notarize it, and submit it together with the original Chinese driver's license, residence permit, ID photo and other materials to the government of the Belgian residential area.

The train routes in Belgium are spread throughout the country, making it convenient to travel, with low ticket prices, and many preferential policies. An adult can purchase a ticket and travel with up to 4 children under the age of 12 free of charge.

Train tickets are divided into one-way tickets, round-trip tickets, 10 time tickets, and weekend tickets. Compared to the railway company website: www.belgiantrain.be 。

Urban transportation

The public transportation system in Brussels consists of the Metro, Tram, and Bus. The operating hours are mostly from 5am to late at night. The ticket is universal and can be transferred freely within 1 hour. The subway and underground tram are both marked with "M", which is eye-catching and easy to recognize.

Bus tickets can be purchased at subway stations, train stations, newsstands, or some supermarkets. Regular rides can purchase 10 tickets or 24-hour, 48 hour, and 72 hour tickets. There is also a double decker bus ticket for Brussels city sightseeing, which is valid for 24 or 48 hours and has dedicated sightseeing routes.

Except for taking a taxi directly from the airport or train station, when taking a taxi, it is necessary to call the taxi company in advance to make an appointment, and the price is relatively expensive. When making an appointment, it is necessary to provide the name, contact information, total number of passengers, number of luggage, departure location, etc. Payment can be made by credit card or cash, but advance notice is required.

major city

Brussels: the capital, largest city, and political, economic, and cultural center of Belgium. Located in the heart of the Dutch French railway mainline, it is the headquarters of the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Having many exquisite buildings and museums, modern and modern architecture complement each other with medieval and ancient architecture. The entire city is centered around the palace, and walking is preferred for city tours.

Antwerp: the second largest city and economic center in Belgium, as well as the second largest port city in Europe and the largest in Belgium. Located downstream of the Scheldt River, 86 kilometers north of the North Sea, it has over 500 berths and is a European trade center along with Rotterdam. A world-renowned tourist city and diamond center.

Bruges: the capital of West Flanders province, a tourist destination, and a cultural city, known as the "Venice of the North". Bruges means "bridge" in Flemish and is named after an ancient Roman bridge over the Ley River that flows through the city.

Ghent: the capital and tourist destination of the province of East Flanders, located at the confluence of the Scheldt and Les rivers. It consists of the city of Ghent and some surrounding towns and is the central city of the Flanders region. The world-renowned flower exhibition, also known as the "Flower City," is held every five years. Having an excellent harbor, with developed fiber and steel industries, and high cultural and artistic levels in art museums and galleries.

Liege: the third largest river port in Europe and the economic center of the Walloon region. In recent years, traditional industries such as textiles, coal, and steel have transformed into new industries such as electronics, biochemistry, aerospace, and astrophysics. With developed transportation and a network of highways connecting major European cities, it is an important air cargo hub in Europe. The conditions of the inland ports in Meuse are among the best in Europe.

Commodity prices

Life in Belgium is convenient, but the price level is relatively high. Local supermarkets and markets can meet general living needs, and Chinese specialties, seasonings, etc. can be purchased in supermarkets operated by Chinese people. It should be noted that most local shops are closed on Sundays, with only a few convenience stores and Chinese supermarkets open. The currency is Euro.

Insurance Medical

Belgium has no major infectious diseases, and its healthcare system is built on a high tax and high welfare social system.

In Belgium, the vast majority of outpatient clinics are undertaken by private doctors, and the main responsibility of hospitals is to receive emergency and inpatient treatment. Therefore, making an appointment to see an outpatient clinic in Belgian hospitals usually takes one or two weeks, making it more convenient to see a private doctor. More than all private doctors, they are connected to hospitals and pharmacies. When seeking medical treatment, a private doctor first makes a diagnosis. If the diagnosis can be confirmed at that time, a prescription can be issued, and patients can go to any local pharmacy to buy medicine with the prescription. After receiving the prescription from a private doctor, the pharmacy must first verify the doctor's professional qualifications on the computer and confirm their accuracy before selling the medication. If a private doctor is unable to diagnose on the spot or requires more professional equipment for diagnosis, they will issue a document requiring a certain diagnosis and transfer the patient to a specialized examination center for examination.

Except for the drugs for hospitalized patients, which are provided by the hospital, medical treatment and pharmaceuticals are completely separated. Doctors prescribe drugs, and pharmacies sell drugs. Whether it is a private doctor's clinic or a regular hospital, it must follow this procedure.

Customs taboos

The main holidays include: New Year's Day, Easter, International Labor Day, Ascension Day (the 6th Thursday after Easter), Pentecost (the 7th Sunday after Easter), National Day (July 21), Assumption of the Virgin Mary (August 15), All Saints' Day (November 1), Armistice Day (November 11), King's Day (November 15), Christmas, Brussels Capital Region Festival (May 8), French speaking Region Festival (September 27), Dutch speaking Region Festival (July 11).

Compared to its independence in 1830, the 1994 constitution established a hereditary constitutional monarchy with a federal system. The king serves as the head of state and supreme commander of the three armed forces, jointly exercising legislative power with the parliament and executive power with the government, but the real power lies with the government, which is accountable to the parliament. The first king Leopold I was sworn in as king on July 21, 1831, which was designated as National Day. The current King Philip ascended to the throne on July 21, 2013.

The population is 11.6 million as of January 2022. The official languages are French, Dutch, and German. Most Belgians believe in Catholicism, while others believe in Islam, Protestantism, Judaism, or Eastern Orthodoxy. Belgium is a federal country, where the federation, regions, and language regions are responsible for different areas of affairs and have equal power. The language region is mainly responsible for language, culture, and education, while the region is responsible for matters related to the economy. At present, it is divided into three language regions (French speaking region, Dutch speaking region, German speaking region) and three major regions (Flemish region, Walloon region, and Brussels Capital region). Using other languages in their respective regions (especially speaking Dutch in French speaking areas or French in Dutch speaking areas) is not popular.

Communications Power

The specific voltage is 220 volts, using a European standard round head two-phase socket.

Compared to mobile phone standards including GSM, 4G, and 5G, domestic phones with the same standards can be used normally after inserting a local SIM card.

The country and region code is 0032. The landline number is nine digits long and the mobile phone number is ten digits long, both starting with "0". If you dial from a domestic landline or mobile phone, you do not need to add "0" after entering the country/region code. For example, if the local landline number is 012345678, dial 012345678 from a local phone and 0032-12345678 from a domestic phone.

There are multiple telecommunications companies with well-developed networks and various phone and network packages to choose from, but the overall price is relatively high. Generally, hotels provide internet services, and some areas such as cafes and bars also have wireless internet services.

Related company website URL:

Proximus Corporation: www.proximus.be

Orange Belgium Company: www.orange.be

Base Company: www.base.be

contact information

1、 Bank of China (Luxembourg) Limited Brussels Branch: 0032-24056688

2、 Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Brussels Branch: 0032-25398888

3、 Hainan Airlines: www.hnair.com

4、 ING Bank: www.ing.be

5、 BNP Bank: www.bnpparibasfortis.be

6、 UCL Hospital Brussels (Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc)

Address: Avenue Hippocrate 10，B-1200 Bruxelles, website: www.saintluc.be , Phone: 0032-27641111, or you can search for medical institutions throughout the country through www.hospitals.be website.

7、 Main government departments and service agencies

Government website: http://belgium.be

Federal Department of the Interior's Bureau of Foreign Affairs: www.dofi.fgov.be , Provide information on entry, residence, and settlement in Belgium.

Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs: http://diplomatie.belgium.be And provide foreigners with entry conditions and visa application information.

Official tourism website: www.visitbelgium.com

Railway company: www.belgiantrain.be

Brussels Airport: www.brusselsairport.be

8、 Emergency phone number

Search desk: 1414 (English), 1313 (French)

Fire and ambulance hotline: 112 (EU standard) or 100

Bandit police phone number: 101