Visa and entry documents for (PhD) students
EEA nationals and Swiss nationals do not need a visa to enter Belgium.
A citizen of the Union holds the nationality of a European Union (EU) Member State, or of one of the countries associated with the European Union (Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein).
Every EU citizen has the right to move and reside freely within the territory of EU Member States. However, this right, and more specifically the right to stay in Belgium for more than three months, is subject to conditions. Check all information on the right of entry and residence in Belgium of an EU citizen before your departure.
Non-EEA nationals will need to follow different procedures depending on the length of stay, their nationality and the type of the study program.
Short Stay ( < 90 days)A short-stay visa (type C) allows the holder to travel and stay freely between all of the Schengen area member countries. |
Long stay ( > 90 days)The general rule is that all citizens of third countries must submit an application for initial authorisation to stay in Belgium (visa D). It allows the holder to enter Belgium for a period longer than 90 days and apply for the Belgian residence permit. |
Mobility studentAccording to the EU Directive 2016/801, Non-EEA nationals who are enrolled in a country of the European Union and will conduct a mobility at Ghent University via the Erasmus+, Erasmus Mundus or double degree program, can make use of a simplified application procedure for a temporary Belgian residence document without a visa D. |
Family ReunificationIf your immediate family member (spouse, partner, dependent child, or parent) wishes to live in the Schengen Area with you, they can apply for a family reunification visa. |
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Need Help?
Always first consult the diplomatic post or the visa application center in your country of residence.
For non-standard situations, you might need some extra information or advise. When in doubt you can contact students.visa@ugent.be.
Remember: We can only advise you but we are unable to interfere with the visa process.