How to Apply for a Belgium Visa from UK: Complete 2025 Guide

If you’re planning to visit Belgium from the UK, you may need a Belgium visa from UK. Whether you’re going for a holiday, business trip, or to visit family, it's important to know how the visa process works. This easy guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a Belgium visa from UK in 2025.


Do UK Citizens Need a Visa for Belgium?

Since the UK is no longer part of the EU, British citizens can only travel to Belgium visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or short visits.

However, if you are a non-UK national living in the UK, you will likely need to apply for a Belgium visa from UK. This applies to people holding UK residence permits or long-term UK visas.


Who Needs a Belgium Visa from UK?

You need to apply for a Belgium visa from UK if:

  • You are a non-EU national living in the UK.

  • You hold a UK residence permit or UK visa.

  • You plan to visit Belgium for tourism, business, visiting family, or other short-term reasons.

  • You are staying in Belgium for less than 90 days.

If you want to stay longer than 90 days, such as for work, study, or joining a family member, you’ll need a long-stay Belgium visa from UK, also known as a D visa.


Types of Belgium Visa from UK

There are two main types:

1. Short-stay (Schengen) Visa – Type C

  • Valid for up to 90 days.

  • Best for tourism, business trips, or family visits.

2. Long-stay Visa – Type D

  • For stays over 90 days.

  • Needed for work, study, or residence.

Most applicants looking for a Belgium visa from UK apply for the short-stay Schengen visa.


Belgium Visa from UK Requirements

To apply for a Belgium visa from UK, you will need:

  • A valid passport (issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months after return).

  • UK residence permit (valid for at least 3 months beyond your return date).

  • Completed Schengen visa application form.

  • Passport-sized photos (as per Schengen visa photo rules).

  • Proof of travel (return ticket or travel itinerary).

  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter).

  • Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage for Schengen area).

  • Proof of financial means (bank statements from last 3 months).

  • Visa fee payment.


Where to Apply for a Belgium Visa from UK

All applications for a Belgium visa from UK are on BELGIUMVISA

Visa Application Centres in the UK:

  • London

  • Manchester

  • Edinburgh

Visit the official VFS Global Belgium website to book a Belgium visa appointment from UK.


How to Apply for a Belgium Visa from UK – Step by Step

1. Check if You Need a Visa

Make sure your nationality requires a Belgium visa from UK.

2. Gather Your Documents

Prepare all the required documents listed above.

3. Book Your Appointment

Go to the Belgium VISA website and choose a visa application centre near you. Book your Belgium visa appointment from UK.

4. Attend Your Appointment

Visit your appointment on time. Submit your documents and biometric data (fingerprints and photo).

5. Track Your Application

6. Receive Your Visa

Once approved, your passport with the visa will be returned by post or collection.


Belgium Visa from UK Processing Time

The standard processing time for a Belgium visa from UK is 15 calendar days. However, it’s recommended to apply at least 4-6 weeks before your travel date, especially during busy travel seasons.


Tips for a Successful Belgium Visa from UK Application

  • Double-check all documents before your appointment.

  • Make sure your travel insurance meets Schengen requirements.

  • Submit clear, recent bank statements.

  • Be honest and accurate on your application form.

  • Book your Belgium visa appointment from UK early to avoid delays.


FAQs: Belgium Visa from UK

Q: Can I work in Belgium with a short-stay visa?
A: No, you cannot work on a short-stay Belgium visa from UK. You need a long-stay visa and work permit.

Q: Can I travel to other Schengen countries with a Belgium visa?
A: Yes, the short-stay Schengen visa allows travel across all 27 Schengen countries.

Q: What if my Belgium visa is refused?
A: You can appeal or reapply with updated documents. Make sure to fix any issues mentioned in the refusal letter.


Conclusion

Applying for a Belgium visa from UK doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right documents and early planning, you can easily get your visa and enjoy your trip to Belgium. Whether it’s for sightseeing, business, or family time, Belgium has something for everyone.

Make sure to book your Belgium visa appointment from UK on time and follow the checklist to avoid delays.

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