When do Ukrainians need a visa to Belgium and how to apply for it?

Belgium is one of the most popular countries for Ukrainian tourists, with many historical sights and cultural events. However, to plan your trip, you need to understand whether you need a visa to enter Belgium and how to apply for one. Find out more about the Belgian visa application process and how to avoid mistakes when applying

Legal assistance on visa issues for Ukrainians

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For many Ukrainians, Belgium is an attractive travel destination, offering historical sights, cultural events and excellent cuisine. However, before planning a trip, it is important to know whether a visa is required for Ukrainian citizens planning to visit this country.

Read on to find out when Ukrainians need a visa to Belgium, how to apply for one and what documents are required.

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When do Ukrainians need a visa to enter Belgium?

Citizens of Ukraine who hold a biometric passport can travel within the Schengen area, which includes Belgium, without a visa for up to 90 days within each 180-day period. This applies to travel for tourism, business or private purposes. This makes it easier to plan short-term trips for leisure or business.

However, there are exceptions when a visa is still required:

- Long-term stays. If you plan to stay in Belgium for more than 90 days, you need to apply for a long-term national visa type D. This can be a visa for study, work, medical procedures or other long-term trips.

- Purpose of the trip. A visa will be required if you are travelling for a specific purpose, such as work, study or family reunion. Such trips require special visas that allow you to stay in the country beyond the permitted visa-free period.

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How to apply for a visa to enter Belgium?

Obtaining a visa for Belgium is a clearly structured process that requires the preparation of a number of documents and several stages.

Step 1. Determine the type of visa.

First of all, you need to determine what type of visa you need: a short-term visa (type C) for a trip of up to 90 days or a long-term visa (type D) for a stay beyond this period.

Step 2. Preparation of documents.

The package of documents may vary depending on the purpose of the trip, and having all the necessary papers is a crucial aspect of successful visa application, which is why it is important to pay great attention to the collection and preparation of documents.

Step 3. Make an appointment to submit documents.

To submit your documents, you need to make an appointment at a consulate or an accredited visa application centre. If necessary, you can also apply through VFS Global, Belgium's official visa application partner.

Step 4. Submission of documents.

After making an appointment, you need to submit all the documents for a visa appointment. It is important not to forget to pay the consular fee, which is about 80 euros for adult applicants and 40 euros for children from 6 to 12 years old.

Step 5. Processing time and receipt of the visa.

Usually, the processing time for a visa application is 15 to 30 days, depending on the season and the workload of the consulate. You can get your passport with a visa in person at the consulate or receive it by post, if the procedure requires it.

What documents are required for a visa to Belgium?

Depending on the type of visa, the list of documents may vary. However, the main documents to be submitted are:

- Passport valid for at least 3 months after the planned date of departure.

- Visa application form.

- Passport-size photo.

- Proof of financial solvency (bank statements, certificates from the place of work).

- Confirmation of the purpose of the trip (invitation, contract, certificate from an educational institution, etc.)

- Booking of tickets or confirmation of other means of transport.

- For minor children - permission from their parents if they are travelling without one of the parents.

- An insurance policy covering the cost of medical care within the Schengen area in the amount of at least EUR 30,000.

By the way, you can take out medical insurance for travelling abroad on the Visit Ukraine portal.

The policy meets all Schengen requirements and provides reliable protection during your stay in another country.

How can I avoid mistakes when submitting documents?

One of the most common reasons for visa refusal is an incorrectly filled in application form or missing important documents. Among the most common mistakes:

- An insufficiently or incorrectly completed application form.

- Irrelevant documents or lack of translations (depending on the requirements of the consulate).

- Incorrect health insurance that does not cover all the necessary aspects.

- Incorrectly prepared financial documents - insufficient funds or inadequate proof of their availability.

To avoid such mistakes, it is advisable to contact professionals who will help you fill out the documents correctly and prepare the necessary papers.

Why should you contact Visit Ukraine lawyers to apply for a visa to Belgium?

Visa application is not just about filling out a questionnaire. It is a complex process that requires attention to detail and clear organisation. Visit Ukraine lawyers have experience in preparing visa packages and can ensure that all documents for travelling to Belgium are prepared correctly.

Visit Ukraine lawyers can help with the following issues:

- Choosing the type of visa.

- Preparation of all necessary documents.

- Appointment for submission of documents and full support.

- Assistance in difficult situations during the visa application process.

Book a consultation on Visit Ukraine and leave all your visa application worries to professionals!

Just a reminder! Belgium provides Ukrainians with excellent opportunities to build a successful life in Europe, offering a variety of legalisation options. Migration conditions are constantly being updated, so it is important to have up-to-date and professional information about moving. Read about the rules of emigration to Belgium in 2025 here.

Photo: iStock

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