Europe
Belgium immigration and visa guide
Belgium features the Single Permit (Permis Unique) combining work and residence authorization, EU Blue Card, and Professional Card for self-employed entrepreneurs in Brussels, Flanders, and Wallonia.
Immigration Office (Office des Étrangers / Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken) & Regional Economic Migration
- Processing time
- 6 – 12 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- No
- Digital nomad friendly
- No
Visa options in Belgium
Key requirements
- Employment contract with a Belgian entity meeting regional minimum salary thresholds (Flanders, Brussels, or Wallonia)
- Single Permit application submitted by employer via the Workinginbelgium portal
- Medical certificate by recognized embassy physician and police clearance certificate
How to apply for a Belgium visa: step by step
- 1
Regional Economic Migration Authorization
Employer submits application through the regional government portal (Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels Economy).
4 - 8 weeks
- 2
Federal Immigration Office Annex 46 Clearance
Federal Immigration Office validates security and issues official single permit authorization (Annexe 46).
2 - 4 weeks
- 3
Visa D & Commune Registration
Collect Type D visa, travel to Belgium, register at the local Commune/Gemeente, and receive Electronic Residence Card A.
2 - 3 weeks
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
How many years for Belgian citizenship?
Foreign nationals can apply for Belgian nationality declaration after 5 years of uninterrupted legal residence, provided they demonstrate language proficiency (French, Dutch, or German), economic participation (468 days of work), and social integration.
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in Belgium. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.
Immigration Office (Office des Étrangers / Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken) & Regional Economic MigrationGeneral information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Immigration Office (Office des Étrangers / Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken) & Regional Economic Migration on the official website before applying.