Belgium Visa from Dubai: Complete Guide for UAE Residents

Applying for a Belgium visa from Dubai has become much simpler in recent years. With the Belgian Embassy in Abu Dhabi managing visa applications through VFS Global, UAE residents can now complete most of the process online before visiting the application centre. Whether you’re traveling for leisure, a business trip, or family reasons, the process is organized, clear, and efficient.

This guide explains how to apply for Belgium visa from Dubai, who can apply, and the exact documents required for a Schengen visa from Dubai. It also includes practical advice to help you prepare your file correctly and avoid delays.

Who Can Apply for a Belgium Visa from UAE?

Anyone holding a valid UAE residence visa can apply for a visa to Belgium from Dubai. Since Belgium is part of the Schengen Zone, a valid Belgian visa allows you to visit other Schengen countries as well.

• UAE Citizens: Emirati nationals do not need a visa to travel to Belgium for short stays (up to 90 days) in any 180-day period.
• UAE Residents (Expats): All expatriates, including Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Egyptian, and other nationalities living in the UAE, must apply for a Belgium Schengen visa before travel.

Your UAE residence visa should be valid for at least three months beyond your intended travel date, and your passport must have a minimum validity of six months with two blank pages.

Types of Belgium Visa

1. Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Tourist Visa)

For travel, business meetings, or visiting family and friends. Allows you to stay in Belgium for up to 90 days within 180 days.

2. Business Visa

For travelers attending meetings, conferences, or trade events in Belgium. Requires an invitation letter from a Belgian company.

3. Student Visa

If you’ve been accepted to a Belgian university or institution, you’ll need a student visa with a valid admission letter.

4. Work Visa

Issued to UAE residents who have received a job offer in Belgium. Requires prior authorization from Belgian immigration authorities.

5. Family Reunion Visa

For family members joining relatives legally residing in Belgium. Requires proof of relationship and sponsorship documents.

6. Transit Visa

If you’re passing through a Belgian airport and will not enter the Schengen zone.

Process for Applying for a Belgium Visa from Dubai

Step 1: Choose the Right Visa Type

Identify the visa category that matches your purpose of travel, tourism, business, study, or family visit.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

Go to the VFS Global Belgium website or the Schengen Visa portal and fill in the form accurately. Double-check your personal and travel details before submitting.

Step 3: Book an Appointment

Schedule your Belgium visa appointment through the VFS website. Appointments are available at the VFS Visa Application Centres in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

Step 4: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all the documents required for Schengen visa from Dubai according to your visa category. Keep both originals and photocopies organized for submission.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Visit the VFS Global Centre on your appointment day. Submit your documents, provide biometric data (photo and fingerprints), and pay the visa fee.

Step 6: Pay the Visa Fee

The Belgium visa fee is approximately 360 - 380 AED for adults and around 180 AED for children aged 6 - 12. You can pay the fee using either cash or card.

Step 7: Track and Collect Your Passport

You can monitor your Belgium visa application in Dubai online using your reference number. Once processed, you’ll receive a notification to collect your passport or have it delivered to your address.

Documents Required for Belgium Visa Application

• Valid passport (minimum six months validity and two blank pages)
• A UAE residence visa that remains valid for at least three months after your return
• Completed and signed the visa application form
• Two recent passport-size photos (white background)
• Round-trip flight booking
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter from a host in Belgium)
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement for the last three months)
• Travel insurance covering all Schengen countries (minimum coverage of 30,000 euros)
• Cover letter stating the purpose of the visit
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer or sponsor
• For a business visa: an invitation letter from a Belgian company
• For a student visa: university admission letter
• For family visa: relationship proof and supporting documents

Ensure all documents are valid, clearly printed, and meet the latest embassy requirements. Missing papers can delay processing.

Belgium Visa Processing Time

The average Belgium visa processing time is 10 to 15 working days. However, during peak travel seasons, it might take slightly longer due to high application volumes.

Long-term visas, such as work or study permits, may take 4 to 8 weeks for approval. To stay on the safe side, apply at least 3 – 4 weeks before your planned travel date.

FAQs