To get A visa or renewing a student residence permit In Belgium, it is not enough to be admitted or enrolled in a public or private higher education institution. You must also prove that you have sufficient financial resources to meet your needs. It is a mandatory condition set by theOffice for Foreigners to prevent foreign students from becoming dependent on the Belgian social system.
So, what are the amounts required for the 2025-2026 academic year? What evidence is accepted? How do I choose between a blocked account, a guarantor or a stock exchange? We explain everything to you.
The minimum amount required is set annually by the Belgian authorities (Office for Foreigners). For the academic year 2025-2026, the monthly amount is 835€.
However, note that the cost of living may be higher from one city to another in Belgium. You can consult This site to estimate how much you will need.
This amount corresponds to your living expenses: rent, food, transport and leisure.
1. The blocked account (recommended option)
As part of a procedure for applying for a visa or renewing a residence permit, the Belgian authorities require that the student must have a sum of money equivalent to twelve (12) times the minimum monthly amount in a blocked account: €835 per month, or 10,020€ for an academic year of 12 months.
Concretely, this is a bank guarantee on which you lock in an amount of 10,020€ for the academic year, or 835€ monthly. This sum is secured until you arrive in Belgium (visa) or until you submit your file to the Municipality (renewal) if you are already in Belgium. STUDELY, a financial service accredited by the Immigration Office, provides you with an official certificate to be attached to your file. Take into account the opening costs are 350€ or 400€ if you also take out travel insurance (document required when applying for a visa).
Some schools in Belgium also offer this service.
2.The commitment to care (Appendix 32)
It must be established by a guarantor and validated by the Belgian authorities in the country of residence.
Attention: there are people who offer to be a guarantor in exchange for a sum of money. Never use this service, it may be a fraud.
If your guarantor Lives in Belgium or in another country ofEuropean Union.
3. An official stock exchange
Some scholarships are also accepted as proof of resources, including:
Excellence scholarships from the Belgian government (ARES, MMS, WBI etc.)
Provide the official certificate indicating the monthly amount of the scholarship.
The amount must be equal to or greater than 835 €/month.
Note that the evidence must be dated. Under three months and be translated into frenchmen Or in dutch. Also, be prepared to present your housing payment plan (deposit and lease).
By respecting these criteria, you maximize your chances of quickly obtaining your visa or residence permit, without unnecessary stress.
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