BE
Belgium · Visum D - Student · apply in person · processing 30-60 days
Belgium's long-stay student visa for non-EU nationals pursuing full-time higher education at an accredited institution. The D visa is followed by a municipal residence permit, normally valid for up to one academic year plus one month and renewable while study conditions are met. Belgium's language Communities set education and admission policies independently. Eligible graduates may request a 12-month search year.
Tuition varies by Community, institution, program and exemption status. For 2026-2027, general non-EU guidance in Flanders is EUR 5,300-12,000 per 60-ECTS year and EUR 8,800-25,000 at arts schools; Wallonia-Brussels guidance is generally EUR 5,369 including the additional contribution, or EUR 1,194 for eligible exemptions. Specialist programs may differ. Scholarships are available through the Communities and institutions.
Up to 20 hours per week outside school holidays, provided work is compatible with studies; there is no hourly limit during school holidays. Student residence holders are exempt from a separate work permit for this permitted work. Work must not displace study as the main activity. Family members of student residents are excluded from the general work-authorisation exemption.
| Program | Type | Duration | Min degree | Work | PR path |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orientation Year (Zoekjaar / Annee d'Orientation) | Job seeker | 12 mo | Bachelors | Unrestricted | No |
| Fee | Type | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long-Stay Visa (Type D) Application Fee | Application | $280 | One time |
| Administrative Contribution Fee (IBZ) | Registration | $281 | One time |
Belgium has three language Communities, each with separate education and admission policies. The visa handling fee is EUR 250 from 1 July 2026; the separate IBZ contribution for public higher education students is EUR 251 from 1 January 2026. Register with the municipality within 8 working days after arrival. Student years count at 50% toward EU long-term residence, and student status alone does not qualify for that status. For nationality declaration, five-year legal residence is only one of several conditions and an unlimited right of residence is required when applying. There is no single nationwide admission language test or score; requirements are set by institutions and program language. The spouse of a student does not automatically receive work authorization; check the relevant regional authorization route before employment. Tuition and entry requirements can vary substantially by program and institution.
Last verified Oct 9, 2026 Last changed Oct 9, 2026 Source
removed non-national language-test minimums; requirements are institution- and program-specific (https://www.studyinflanders.be/practical-information/tuition-fees) (https://www.studyinbelgium.be/fr/etudier-en-belgique-francophone-les-frais-dinscription).
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