Can I enter Belgium with Schengen visa? The answer is yes, you can. Belgium is not only an issuer of this visa but also recognizes Schengen visas issued by other Schengen countries in the zone. Belgium is one of the highest receivers of applications every year and also attracts millions of visitors to the country annually.
The Kingdom of Belgium
Belgium is a Western European country known as the Kingdom of Belgium. It is a constitutional monarchy with a parliament. With a population of more than 11 million people, it is one of the most economically advanced countries in the world, with its capital in Brussels which is the largest and most densely populated of all its cities. Due to its rich multicultural history, the country has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German.
At different times in history, the Dutch, French, German, and Austrians ruled the area and left behind parts of the culture. That is why there are cobbled streets, buildings, and castles of different shapes and designs, some of which are still standing after so many years.
Some of Belgium's popular side attractions include Antwerp, home to the Arlon Museum of Archeology and Flemish Beguinages. Brugges is another famous city known for its canals and rivers.
Why Can I Enter Belgium With Schengen Visa?
Schengen visa holders can enter Belgium because the country is a member of the Schengen zone. The government signed the agreement to join the union in 1995 and became a member of the free trade zone. Today, anyone with a valid Schengen visa issued by the Belgian embassy or any other member state can enter the country as long as the visa is valid.
Does Everyone Need A Visa To Belgium?
Not everyone needs a visa to enter Belgium, and this visa is only required from the following travelers.
Non Visa Exempt Travelers: If you are not from a non visa exempt country, you will need a Schengen visa to enter Belgium. To ensure your eligibility, consult the visa exempt country list to see if your country is listed; if not, you definitely need this visa.
Short-Term Visitors: You need this visa for short-term visits for at least three months. The visit should be non-commercial.
Persons looking to work in Belgium or stay for a longer period must apply for a national visa, not a Schengen visa, and national visas have longer validity.
Forms of Belgian Schengen Visa
This visa is issued in three forms.
Single Entry Visa: The single entry visa had the same validity as the other two, but you can only use it to enter the Schengen zone just once. After the first time, you can use it again even if it hasn't exceeded the validity date.
Double Entry Visa: The double entry visa can be used to enter Belgium twice. This one is useful for travelers who wish to enter your country twice within a short period.
Multiple Entry Visa: This one is for frequent visitors who have the intention to visit the Czech Republic more than twice within a six months period.
Schengen Visa Validity
All Schengen visas, regardless of the purpose for which it is issued or the form, all have the same validity of 180 days. The validity is not counted from the first time you set foot in Belgium but from the day the Schengen tourist visa is issued. Holders are allowed to stay in Belgium or any other Schengen country for 90 days maximum.
Types of Schengen Visas
Here are the types of Schengen visas for different purposes
Airport transit visa
Tourist Visa
Visitor Visa
Business Visa
Medical care visa
Short study visa
Official Visa
Cultural exchange visa
Belgium Visa Requirements
All applicants must submit the following documents to the embassy.
Completed visa application form
Valid passport with at least three months of validity beyond the departure date
Two photographs
Proof of financial sustenance
Cover letter
Proof of accommodation
Travel Itinerary
Civil status certificate
Visa fee receipt
Copies of the previous visa, if any
When Should I Submit My Application?
You should submit your application at least six weeks before you plan to travel. The application should be submitted directly to the Belgian embassy in your country or through a licensed Belgium tourist visa application center that partners with the embassy. After the embassy receives your application, they will call for an interview to review your documents and ask questions about your trip. After this is done, the Belgium Schengen visa application will be processed in 15 calendar days.
Can I enter Belgium with Schengen visa? All visitors can enter Belgium with this visa as long they are valid and they only plan to stay for a short time, not exceeding three months.