Belgium Visa from UK – What UK Residents Need to Know

Travelling to Belgium from the UK has become more regulated after Brexit. If you are a UK resident and planning to visit Belgium, it is important to understand the visa requirements. This article explains the key information you need about applying for a Belgium visa from UK.

Who Needs a Belgium Visa from UK?

If you are a UK passport holder (British citizen), you can visit Belgium for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. However, this is only for short-term visits such as tourism, family visits, or business meetings.

If you are a non-UK national residing in the UK (such as on a work, student, or spouse visa), you may need to apply for a Belgium visa from UK before travelling.

The need for a visa depends on your nationality. For example:

• Indian, Pakistani, Nigerian, and many other non-EU nationals need a Belgium Schengen visa.

• Citizens of countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, or Japan may not need a visa for short stays.

Types of Belgium Visa from UK

There are several types of visas depending on your purpose of travel:

1. Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) – For tourism, business, or visiting family/friends. This is the most common Belgium visa from UK.

2. Airport Transit Visa (Type A) – For travellers who need to change flights in a Belgian airport without entering the country.

3. Long-Stay Visa (Type D) – For those staying in Belgium for more than 90 days, such as students, employees, or family reunification cases.

For most travellers planning holidays or short trips, the short-stay Belgium visa from UK is the relevant category.

How to Apply for a Belgium Visa from UK

To apply for a Belgium visa from UK, you must follow a specific process:

1. Check your visa eligibility – Based on your nationality and UK residence permit type.

2. Book a visa appointment – Through the Online Belgium Visa

3. Fill out the visa application form – You can do this online.

4. Prepare required documents – Ensure you meet all documentation requirements (listed below).

5. Attend your appointment – Submit documents and provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo).

6. Wait for processing – Most short-stay visas are processed in 15 working days, but it can take longer during peak travel periods.

Required Documents for Belgium Visa from UK

When applying for a Belgium visa from UK, the following documents are usually required:

• Completed and signed Schengen visa application form

• Valid passport (with at least two blank pages, and valid for at least three months beyond return date)

• UK eVisa sharecode (BRP)

• Passport-size photos (as per Schengen photo requirements)

• Proof of travel (flight bookings, itinerary)

• Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, invitation letter if staying with family/friends)

• Travel insurance (covering €30,000 minimum, valid in all Schengen countries)

• Proof of financial means (bank statements, payslips)

• Visa fee payment receipt

Make sure all documents are in English, French, Dutch, or German. Translations may be needed for other languages.

Where to Apply for Belgium Visa from UK?

You can apply at one of the Belgium visa centres located in:

• London

• Manchester

• Edinburgh

You must choose the centre closest to your residence and attend the appointment in person.

Visa Fees for Belgium Visa from UK

Fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is refused.

Processing Time for Belgium Visa from UK

The average processing time is 15 working days. However, some applications may take longer if additional documents or checks are required. It is advisable to apply at least 3–4 weeks before your planned travel date.

During summer and holidays, appointment availability may be limited, so early application is recommended.

Travelling with Belgium Visa from UK

Once you receive your Belgium visa from UK, you can:

• Travel to Belgium for up to 90 days

• Enter any other Schengen country (Germany, France, Netherlands, etc.)

• Stay within the total limit of 90 days in 180 days across all Schengen countries

You must not overstay your visa, and you must carry all relevant documents when travelling.

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

Applications for a Belgium visa from UK may be refused for the following reasons:

• Insufficient documentation

• Invalid travel insurance

• Lack of financial proof

• Suspicious travel purpose

• Overstaying previous visas

To avoid rejection, double-check all documents and ensure everything is clear and complete.

Final Notes

Applying for a Belgium visa from UK is a step-by-step process that requires careful preparation. Whether you are visiting Belgium for a holiday, family event, or business trip, it is important to understand visa requirements based on your nationality and UK residency status.

The key to a successful application is booking your appointment early, submitting complete documents, and ensuring you meet the conditions of the Schengen visa policy.