Studying in Belgium attracts thousands of international students every year thanks to the quality of its universities, its accessible courses and its pleasant living environment. But before you can set up and take your courses, an essential administrative step awaits you: Application for a student residence permit, also called A card. This document allows you to legally reside in belgium for the duration of your studies.
Are you wondering what documents to prepare? Here is the complete and up-to-date list for 2025, in order to anticipate your request as soon as you arrive.
La Request for a residence permit takes place at the municipality (or communal house) of the city where you are going to live in Belgium.
You have to introduce yourself in The 8 working days following your arrival on Belgian territory.
lookout : if your file is incomplete, the procedure may be delayed. So prepare all the documents before you leave, or as soon as you arrive.
1. Your passport with visa D
Original valid passport
Photocopy of the page containing the visa
This document proves that you entered Belgium legally as a student.
2. Your registration certificate
Certificate or certificate of enrollment in a recognized Belgian institution (university, university, higher school, etc.)
It should clearly mention your name, the training followed and the duration of the program.
3. Proof of sufficient financial resources
To obtain or renew your residence permit, you must demonstrate that you can live in Belgium without depending on social assistance.
Three options are possible:
4. Proof of housing in Belgium
Rental lease signed
Accommodation certificate if you are staying with a loved one
Your address will be used for a residence check carried out by a neighborhood officer in the days following your registration.
5. A health insurance certificate
Belgian health insurance (recommended if you stay for more than a year)
Or international insurance covering care in Belgium
It should include current medical and hospital expenses.
6. A medical certificate (sometimes required)
Some municipalities require a medical certificate issued by an approved doctor.
Find out in advance to find out if your municipality requires it.
7. 1 to 2 passport photos
Official Belgian format
Clear background, clear face, no tinted glasses
They are used for your electronic residence card.
8. Payment of application fees
Amount: between 20 and 25 euros According to the municipalities
Plan this payment during your appointment at the town (cash or card).
The Belgian authorities want to ensure that every student:
resides legally and in a stable manner,
Do you want to avoid unpleasant surprises and file a complete file? Here is the step-by-step guide to putting all the odds in your favor.
1. Make an appointment
• Connect to the student desk in your municipality via the online tool.
• Choose a date 2 to 4 weeks in advance: the slots fill up quickly.
• Note the reference of your appointment and the exact address of the population service.
2. Prepare and gather your documents
• Readable photocopies of your current passport, visa and residence permit (if applicable).
• Proof of financial resources: account statements or certificate of a locked account.
• Proof of accommodation: lease contract or residence reservation.
• Health insurance certificate.
• Two identity photos in accordance with Belgian standards.
3. Physical or online filing
• Depending on your city, the deposit can be done online via a secure portal or at the municipal office.
• If it's online: scan your PDF documents of less than 5 MB each and check for readability.
• On site: arrive 10 minutes before, bring your complete file and a printed CERFA form.
4. Follow your file
• After deposit, you will receive a tracking number by email or text message.
• Regularly check the progress online: some files require a supplement within 15 days.
• In case of additional requests, respond quickly to avoid refusal or delay.
Once validated, you will be invited to collect your residence permit in person: keep your invitation number handy!
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