Foreign student: how do you apply for your residence permit in Belgium?

Have you just obtained admission to a university or university in Belgium? Congratulations, but before you can settle peacefully in your new host country, an administrative step is essential: The application for a residence permit.
AsForeign student from outside the European Union, your long-stay visa is not enough to legally reside in belgium over time. You will have to quickly apply for Residence card A, usually preceded by the delivery of Annex 15, near the town where you live.

Who should apply for a residence permit?

You should apply if:

• You are a national of a country outside the EU (Africa, Asia, South America, etc.)
• You plan to study for more than 90 days in Belgium
• You are enrolled in a recognized institution (university, university or higher school of arts)

When to apply?

You have to register with the municipality in the 8 working days following your arrival in Belgium. This registration allows you to first obtain a registration certificate (appendix 15), then, after verifying your file, your temporary residence card (card A).

Where to file your request?

To make your request for residence permit in Belgium, you must go to the municipal administration in your place of residence. It is with this administration that you will carry out your Arrival statement As well as your Request for a residence permit.

What documents should I prepare?

Make sure you have a complete file to avoid delays. The documents requested may vary from one municipality to another, but here is the basic list:

• Your passport with the D visa (student)
  

• The completed application form (provided by the municipality)
  

• Proof of enrollment in a recognized higher education institution
  

• Proof of sufficient financial resources (blocked account, stock exchange, guarantor, AVI...)
  

• A proof of health insurance (Belgian or international mutual insurance)
  

• A residence certificate (rental lease, accommodation certificate)
  

• A recent identity photo (Belgian format)

Ps: The list may vary by municipality, so always check their website or contact them before you go.

The residence control visit

After submitting your file, the municipality initiates a check of your place of residence. A police officer will come to your address to confirm that you live there. This step is mandatory before the A card is issued.

How much does it cost?

The price of the residence card varies according to the municipality, but revolves around 20 to 25 euros for the costs of making the electronic card.

How long does it take to get the card?

After submitting your file, the municipality carries out a residence check (police visit). Once validated, you will receive your A card within a period of 2 to 6 weeks. You will then be in good standing for the duration of your title (generally one academic year, renewable).

Renew your residence permit and work while studying

Renewing your residence permit in Belgium means first of all thinking ahead. You must file your application with the municipality no earlier than 2 months before the expiry date. For your file to be complete, don't forget:

• Proof of enrollment at your institution (school certificate or attendance certificate);
  

• Your lease contract or a student housing certificate;
  

• A proof of resources (bank statements, possible stock exchange);
  

• Valid health insurance.

Once submitted, you usually get a receipt that allows you to remain in a regular situation until the final decision (takes about 6 to 8 weeks of treatment). If your training is extended, you start the procedure again with a new registration certificate.

During your studies, you are allowed to work until 20 hours per week and full time during school vacation. Note that the mandatory internships included in your curriculum are not included in your hourly quota. Always remember to ask for a work permit from the Immigration Office before starting.

In the event of an unexpected extension, quickly make a new appointment via your municipality's online platform and prepare the same documents as for the first deposit. Good organization will avoid stress and interruption of your classes.