If you’re looking for world-class universities, a multicultural experience, or opportunities to travel around Europe, Belgium offers all of that and more. This guide will help you understand the visa requirements, living costs, and work options for students in Belgium.
1. Visa Requirements for Studying in Belgium
If you’re a non-EU/EEA student planning to study in Belgium, you will need a student visa to enter and stay in the country for the duration of your studies. The application process may vary slightly depending on your nationality, but here’s a general overview:
Eligibility for a Student Visa:
To be eligible for a student visa in Belgium, you must meet the following criteria:
- Proof of Admission: You must be accepted into a recognized higher education institution in Belgium. This could be a university, college, or vocational school.
- Financial Means: You need to prove that you can support yourself financially during your stay. As of 2025, you must demonstrate that you have at least €1,200 per month to cover your living expenses (approximately €14,400 per year).
- Health Insurance: You must have valid health insurance, either through a Belgian provider or a private insurer recognized in Belgium.
- Accommodation: You must show proof of accommodation in Belgium, whether through university dormitories, rented apartments, or other arrangements.
- Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Belgium.
Student Visa Application Process:
- Prepare Documents: Gather all the required documents, including your admission letter, proof of finances, health insurance, passport, and accommodation details.
- Submit Application: Apply at the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country. You may need to make an appointment and submit your documents in person.
- Pay the Visa Fee: The fee for a student visa is usually around €200.
- Wait for Approval: The processing time for a student visa can take up to 2 months, so it’s important to apply well in advance.
- Receive Your Visa: Once approved, you will receive a long-stay visa (type D), which allows you to study in Belgium.
After Arrival:
- Upon arrival in Belgium, you must register with the local municipality and apply for a residence permit. This is typically valid for 1 year and can be renewed.
- If your study program lasts longer than your initial visa, you’ll need to extend your residence permit.
2. Living Costs for Students in Belgium
Belgium is considered a moderately expensive country for students compared to other European destinations. However, the cost of living can vary depending on the city you choose to study in. Cities like Brussels and Antwerp tend to have higher living costs, while smaller towns like Leuven and Ghent may be more affordable.
Typical Monthly Living Costs:
- Accommodation: Rent is typically your biggest expense. In larger cities, student accommodation (dormitories, shared apartments) costs between €400 to €800 per month. Rent is usually cheaper in smaller cities.
- Food: Students can expect to spend around €250 to €350 per month on groceries, depending on whether they cook at home or eat out. Meals at student-friendly restaurants or cafeterias may cost between €8 and €12.
- Transport: Public transportation in Belgium is efficient, and students can get discounts. A monthly pass for local transport typically costs between €25 to €50.
- Health Insurance: Students from non-EU countries are required to have health insurance. If you are not covered by a European health insurance card (EHIC), you may need to pay for private insurance, which can cost €40 to €100 per month.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: Entertainment, personal items, and other miscellaneous costs can range from €100 to €200 per month.
Total Monthly Living Costs:
On average, students can expect to spend between €800 and €1,200 per month to cover their living expenses in Belgium.
3. Work Options for Students in Belgium
One of the benefits of studying in Belgium is that international students are allowed to work part-time while pursuing their studies, helping to supplement their income and gain valuable work experience.
Work Regulations for International Students:
- During the Academic Year: You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester. This is a great way to earn extra money and gain professional experience in Belgium.
- During Holidays: Full-time work is permitted during the official holiday periods, such as summer and Christmas breaks. This allows you to earn more money during your time off from studies.
Types of Jobs Available:
- Part-Time Jobs: Many students work in retail, hospitality, and administrative roles. Jobs like working in cafes, restaurants, or stores are common for international students.
- On-Campus Jobs: Some universities offer students the opportunity to work on-campus as research assistants, tutors, or in other administrative roles. These jobs are often more flexible and can be a good option for students looking to balance work and study.
- Internships: Belgium offers many internship opportunities, particularly in fields like engineering, business, IT, and communications. Internships are a great way to gain work experience that aligns with your field of study and may also offer a salary or stipend.
Salary Expectations:
- The minimum wage in Belgium is around €1,700 to €2,000 per month for full-time work, but part-time salaries are typically lower, averaging between €9 and €12 per hour.
- For students, hourly wages may vary depending on the industry and the city, but positions in hospitality, retail, and administration tend to pay between €10 to €15 per hour.
Social Security and Taxes:
- Students who work more than 475 hours per year (approximately 20 hours per week for 9 months) are subject to social security contributions and taxes. However, you may be eligible for tax exemptions or reduced rates depending on your situation, such as your income level and the type of job you hold.
- If you work part-time, you will usually be entitled to benefits such as health insurance and pension contributions, but your tax rate will be relatively low.
4. Scholarships and Financial Aid for Students in Belgium
Belgium offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Some scholarships are offered by individual universities, while others are available through government and international programs.
Types of Scholarships:
- Government Scholarships: The Belgian government offers scholarships to students from developing countries and non-EU students. The VLIR-UOS scholarship program, for example, provides full funding for students from 31 eligible countries.
- University Scholarships: Many universities in Belgium offer merit-based scholarships, which may cover part or all of your tuition fees. These are usually awarded based on academic performance and are specific to the institution or program.
- Erasmus Mundus Scholarships: The Erasmus Mundus program provides scholarships for students from non-EU countries to study in Belgium as part of a European-wide initiative.
You can find more information about scholarships on your university’s website or through the official Belgian government and embassy sites.
5. Exploring Belgium During Your Studies
Belgium is a wonderful country to explore during your time as a student. With its central location in Europe, you can easily travel to neighboring countries like France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Some must-see places include:
- Brussels: The capital city, home to the European Union institutions and an exciting blend of cultures, art, and history.
- Bruges: A picturesque medieval city known for its canals, historic buildings, and charming atmosphere.
- Ghent: A vibrant student city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a lively cultural scene.
- Antwerp: Known for its fashion, diamonds, and art, Antwerp is one of Belgium’s most dynamic cities.
You can also explore Belgium’s beautiful countryside, including the Ardennes region, famous for hiking and outdoor activities.
Conclusion
Student life in Belgium offers a great balance of academic excellence, work opportunities, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in a major city like Brussels, Leuven, or Ghent, or exploring a smaller town, Belgium provides everything you need for a fulfilling student experience. From affordable tuition fees to the ability to work part-time and enjoy the rich cultural and social life, Belgium is an excellent destination for international students.
Make sure to research your visa requirements, budget for living costs, and look into potential job opportunities to make the most of your time studying in this wonderful country!
