UK Residents with Indian Nationality May Need to Apply for a Belgium Visa

It is important for you to know that not all UK residents are need to follow same visa guidelines. when it comes to Belgian visa rules it works according to the nationality. If you are living in the UK but holding Indian nationality, a Belgium visa will be required for most types of travel to Belgium, even for short stays.

Many Indian passport holders who have settled in the UK as students, skilled workers, or dependents often assume that having a UK residence permit, which allows visa-free travel in Europe or the Schengen Area. Unfortunately, that is not the case for Belgium or other Schengen countries.

Who Needs a Belgium Visa

For Indian nationals who are living in the UK may require these Types of Belgium visas:

• A Belgium short-stay visa (Type C) is required for tourism, business, transit, or family meet-ups under 90 days.
  
• A Belgium long-stay visa (Type D) is needed for work, study, or family reunification purposes for more than 90 days. 

Even if you are holding a UK eVisa/ share code (BRP), the Belgium visa from UK process must still be followed. The same documents like passport, proof of UK residence, financial proof, travel insurance, etc.—must be submitted at the visa center..

Let’s Understand by an Example Situation

Ravi, an Indian citizen working as an engineer in Birmingham, planned to attend a two-week training session in Brussels. Although he had a valid UK work visa. But, still he had to apply for a Belgium visa from UK. His employer provided the invitation letter, and his visa was approved within 15 working days.

Tip for Indian Nationals in the UK

• Always check your nationality’s visa requirements on the Belgian Embassy’s UK website before booking travel.
• Apply as early as 2 months before your travel dates, especially during holidays or busy seasons to avoid delays.

Use a checklist which is specific to non-EU nationals residing in the UK to avoid refusal in your Belgium visa process.