If you are an Indian student who is about to study in Belgium, thorough preparation is essential for a successful transition. From obtaining your student visa, finding accommodation, preparing your administrative documents, to getting health insurance, every step is important.
This pre-departure checklist gathers all the steps to take before your arrival in Belgium so that you are perfectly prepared for your new student life. Also remember to pack clothes suitable for the Belgian climate, your essential medications, and a few familiar items that will help you adapt.
1. Academic and Administrative Documents
Before your departure, gather all the essential documents for your studies and your stay in Belgium. Keep the originals, several certified copies, and a digital version of each document.
Specifically, you'll need:
- A valid passport (at least 6 months after the planned end of your stay)
- Your admission letter from a Belgian university or higher education institution
- Your Type D student visa
- Proof of financial resources (blocked account or official certificate of sponsorship)
- A medical certificate issued by a doctor approved by the Belgian Embassy
- A police clearance certificate issued by the Indian authorities
- Your vaccination certificate (COVID-19 if necessary)
- Your translated and apostilled birth certificate
- Your diploma equivalency (if required)
- Your transcripts and diplomas (originals and certified copies)
- Several passport-sized photos compliant with Belgian standards
Tip: organize all these documents in a folder and also keep a digital copy on Google Drive or Dropbox.
2. Prepare your budget
Good financial planning is essential before your departure.
Consider:
- Open a blocked account to prove your financial resources
- Bring an international bank card (Visa or Mastercard)
- Plan for between €100 and €200 in cash for your initial expenses
- Optionally bring a multi-currency card
- Prepare a realistic budget for your first three months (rent, food, transport, university fees, etc.)
3. Health and insurance
Before leaving India, make sure to:
- Subscribe to a student health insurance or arrange your affiliation with a Belgian mutual insurance company upon arrival
- Bring your usual medications along with their prescriptions
- Bring an extra pair of glasses or your contact lenses if necessary
4. Prepare your accommodation
Find your Student housing before your arrival is highly recommended.
A few tips:
- Book your accommodation in advance: student room, university residence or shared accommodation
- Sign your rental agreement and keep a copy
- Request proof of accommodation, essential for certain administrative procedures
- Check if the accommodation is furnished so you can plan for necessary items
5. Planning your trip
For a smooth journey:
- Book your flight well in advance
- Check your airline's baggage allowance
- Pack all your important documents, wallet, phone, charger, and a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage
- Label your suitcases correctly and take a photo of their contents
6. Computer equipment and accessories
Don't forget:
- Your laptop and its charger
- Your mobile phone
- A power bank
- A universal adapter compatible with outlets Type E used in Belgium
- A USB stick or external hard drive
7. Clothing and personal items
The Belgian climate is often cool and rainy.
Specifically, pack:
- Warm clothes (sweaters, sweatshirts, thermal underwear)
- A waterproof coat
- A scarf, gloves, and thick socks
- Clothes for classes and presentations
- Sportswear
- Comfortable shoes and a dressier pair
8. Toiletries
Even though you'll find most products in Belgium, it's advisable to bring:
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Shampoo
- Soap
- Razor
- Hairbrush
- Nail clippers
- Towel
- Reusable water bottle
9. Steps to take upon your arrival in Belgium
Once you've arrived:
- Register with your municipality within 8 days of your arrival
- Apply for your residence permit
- Open a Belgian bank account
- Get a transport card (STIB for Brussels, TEC for Wallonia, De Lijn for Flanders and SNCBfor train travel)
- Attend the welcome days organized by your university
10. Integrating well in Belgium
To help you integrate:
- Join your university's WhatsApp, Facebook, or Erasmus groups
- Learn some basic French or Dutch
- Download useful apps (Google Maps, transport, banking, translation)
- Bring some kitchen utensils if you wish
- Save all your important documents to online storage
Bonus: Studely supports you before and after your arrival
To simplify all your administrative tasks, Studely offers:
Start now on Studely Belgium.
Getting Started studying in Belgium is a significant step. With good preparation, your move will be much simpler and smoother. By anticipating your administrative procedures, budget, accommodation, and all essential formalities, you'll maximize your chances of success for your study abroad journey.
Feel free to keep this checklist and refer to it throughout your departure preparations.
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