UK Visa Fees Belgium 2024 Requirements after Brexit! This guide details the costs and requirements for various UK visas for Belgian citizens post-Brexit. Since January 1, 2021, Belgians need visas for work, study, or extended stays in the UK, although short visits remain exempt. Non-EU nationals residing in Belgium, like those from India or South Africa, must obtain visas for any duration of stay. The UK visa from Belgium cost is €138 for a six-month tourist visa. The visa to UK from Belgium for students and spouse is €589 and €2,218, respectively. UK visa from Belgium cost for skilled workers is €864 for up to 3-years.
Table of Contents
1. UK Visa from Belgium 2024
Visa Requirements for Belgian Citizens
| Activity Type | Visa Requirement |
|---|---|
| Tourism, Business Meetings, Academic Conferences | Belgian citizens can stay in the UK for up to six months without a visa for tourism and short business meetings. |
| Work, Study, Settlement | Belgians require specific visa. |
| Business Travel (extended activities) | Depending on the nature of activities, Belgians may require a UK Visa. |
UK Visa Fees Belgium
The UK Visa Fees Belgium varies by visa type, with tourist visas at €138, student visas at €589, and spouse visas at €2,218.
| Visa Type | UK Visa Fees Belgium 2024 |
|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | €138 (6-months) |
| Student Visa | €589 |
| Skilled Worker | €864 (up to 3 years) €1,707 (over 3 years) |
| Spouse Visa | €2,218 |
UK Visa Processing Time from Belgium
| Visa Type and Service | Processing Time and Cost from Belgium (2024) |
|---|---|
| Non-Settlement Visas (Standard Processing) | 10-15 working days (2-3 weeks) |
| Non-Settlement Visas (Priority Service) | 5-7 working days, Extra Cost: €601 |
| Settlement Visas (Standard Processing) | Up to 12 weeks |
| Settlement Visas (Priority Service for Belgian Passport Holders) | 6 weeks, Extra Cost: €601 |
| Super-Priority Service | Next working day, Service Fee: €1,202 |
Note: Extended processing up to 12 weeks may occur in some cases for non-settlement visas due to various factors such as document verification or administrative delays.
UK Visa for Indian and Pakistani Nationals in Belgium
Visa to UK from Belgium for Non-EU Residents
- Indian Passport Holders: As non-EU residents in Belgium, Indian nationals need a UK visa for visiting, working, studying, and family settlement.
- Pakistani Passport Holders: Similar requirements apply to Pakistani nationals in Belgium. They must obtain a UK visa for the same range of purposes.
UK Visit Visa for Pakistani and Indian Nationals in Belgium
- Purpose: For short holidays or visits to the UK.
- Processing Time: Typically 10-15 working days for non-settlement visas, including visit visas.
- Priority Services: Available for faster processing.
- Application Submission: Biometric submissions usually occur at TLS application centre Regus Brussels South Station, 5th Floor South Centre Titanium, Place Marcel Broodthaers 8/Box 5, 1060, Brussels.
2. UK Visit Visa from Belgium 2024
Belgian citizens are classified as non-visa nationals, meaning they don’t require a visa for UK visits lasting up to 6 months.
As per Paragraph V 1.3 of Appendix V Immigration Rules for visitors, there are situations where a visiting visa is necessary:
- Intentions to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK, or give notice of the same.
- Plans to visit the UK for longer than 6 months.
Standard Visitor Visa UK from Belgium 2024
The standard visitor visa is for tourism, family visits, business meetings, short-term studies, and other allowed activities. Belgians and EU residents in Belgium typically don’t need a standard visa to visit the UK. However, non-EU residents like Indian or Pakistani passport holders must apply for a standard visa to visit the UK.
Essential Criteria: UK Visit Visa from Belgium
To secure a UK Visit Visa from Belgium, applicants must satisfy multiple criteria. The foremost requirement is stating the clear purpose of the visit, whether it’s tourism, business, or visiting family. Applicants also need to provide proof of financial means to support their stay in the UK, along with evidence of accommodation arrangements. Furthermore, proof of onward or return travel is required to ensure the applicant intends to leave the UK after the visit. Meeting these essential criteria is critical for obtaining a UK Visit Visa from Belgium.
In 2022, out of 122 Belgian UK visitor visa applications, 68 were approved and 20 were denied, leading to a 75.56% approval rate and a 22.22% refusal rate.
UK Visa from Belgium Cost for Standard Visitors
As of 2024, UK visa fees from Belgium are €138 for a 6-month visa, €481 for a 2-year visa, €927 for a 5-year visa, and €1,157 for a 10-year visa. All these visas have a maximum stay limit of 180 days per visit.
The standard processing time for a visitor visa from Belgium is usually 3-weeks. Belgians and residents in Belgium can fast track the decision time to within one week, by purchasing the priority service for €601.
Tourist Visa to UK from Belgium
To apply for a UK tourist visa from Belgium, begin by filling out the online application form. The application requires various documents to support your application, such as proof of intent to return to Belgium, evidence of financial stability, and detailed travel plans. The application process includes completing the online form, paying the visa fee (€138), and submitting biometric data at a designated visa application center.
Required Documentation for Tourist Visa to UK from Belgium:
- Proof of Intent to Return to Belgium: Documents like a letter from your Belgian employer or educational institution, which confirm your commitments in Belgium following your trip to the UK, are necessary.
- Financial Stability: This is typically proven through bank statements that show you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in the UK.
- Detailed Travel Plans: A comprehensive itinerary, along with confirmed bookings for your accommodation and transportation, is required to demonstrate your travel arrangements.
Other UK Visitor Visas from Belgium
| Visa Type for Belgian Citizens | UK Visa from Belgium Cost 2024 |
|---|---|
| Marriage Visitor Visa: For Belgian citizens to get married or registering civil partnership in the UK. Duration: Up to 180 days. | €138 |
| Private Medical Treatment Visa: For Belgians to get private medical treatment in the UK lasting 6-11 months. Note: Attendants must apply separately. | €240 |
| Visiting Academics: For Belgian academic professionals engaging in research or educational exchanges for up to 12 months. | €240 |
| Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE): For Belgian professionals to perform short-term paid tasks like lecturing or assessing, available for up to 30 days. | €138 |
| Parent of Child Student Visa: For Belgian parents of children in fee-paying day schools in the UK. Duration: 12 months. | €766 |
3. Student Visa UK from Belgium
The UK Student Visa permits Belgian citizens to pursue a range of educational opportunities in the UK, from higher education to Student Union roles.
For a successful UK Student Visa application, Belgians must satisfy specific criteria. These include a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK institution and proof of English language proficiency, commonly through an IELTS exam. Financial solvency for tuition and living costs is also mandatory.
In the year concluding in September 2022, from 456 Belgian applications, 442 were granted, reflecting a 97.57% success rate.
UK Student Visa Fees from Belgium
Belgian students applying for a UK Student Visa are required to pay a standard application fee of €589, with the visa typically processed within a timeframe of around 3 weeks. For those seeking expedited processing, there is an option available at an additional cost of €601.
Additionally, students from Belgium must also account for the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £624 annually, as a mandatory part of their visa application process.
Short-term English Language Visa to UK from Belgium
The short-term study visa is designed for Belgians studying English in the UK for 6-11 months, costing €240. A 6-month course costs €138.
Work Rights for Students from Belgium
- While attending degree-level courses, students can engage in up to 20 hours of work per week during semesters, and full-time during their breaks.
- For sub-degree level courses, the limit is 10 hours per week.
- Dependents of degree-level students can work; however, those of sub-degree students cannot.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Belgian graduates can avail a 2-year post-study work visa. PhD holders can get a 3-year visa.
4. Family Visa UK for Belgian Citizens 2024
The UK Family Visa under Appendix FM allows Belgian citizens to join family members who are either settled in the UK or British citizens. Categories range from spouse visas to adult dependent relatives and parent of a British child visas.
In the year up to September 2022, 39 Belgians applied for the UK family settlement visa. From these, 18 were approved and 2 were declined, yielding success and refusal rates of 90.00% and 10.00% respectively.
Spouse or Partner Visa UK from Belgium
- Eligibility: Belgian nationals must meet the requirements set in Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules, including a genuine relationship, financial stability, secure housing, and English language capabilities.
- Validity & Extensions: The spouse visa is granted for 33 months, with extension possible after 30 months. Eligibility for ILR is achievable after 5 years.
- Cost: A standard fee of €2,218 is charged, with an option for expedited service at an additional cost of €601.
Other Family Visas UK from Belgium
| Visa Category | UK Visa from Belgium Cost 2024 |
|---|---|
| Fiancé(e) Visa For Belgians intending to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK. Valid for 6 months. | €2,218 |
| Parent of a British Child Visa For Belgians who are the sole caregivers of a British child. | €2,218 |
| Adult Dependent Relative Visa For Belgians requiring long-term care from a UK-based relative. | €3,906 |
| Returning Residents Visa For Belgians who have previously been settled in the UK and wish to return. | €766 |
5. Working in the UK as a Belgian Citizen 2024
Can a Belgian Citizen Work in the UK?
After Brexit, Belgian citizens need work permit for working and doing business in the UK. Belgians often choose the Skilled Worker visa when seeking employment in the UK. Other options include visas such as the Innovator, Startup, Global Business Mobility, and Health and Care Worker.
In the year up to September 2022, 811 Belgians applied for a UK work visa. Of the 820 applications processed, 794 were granted, and 14 were rejected, yielding success and refusal rates of 96.83% and 1.71% respectively.
Skilled Worker & Health Care Visas
Belgian citizens looking to work in the UK in skilled occupations have specific visa options available to them. The Skilled Worker Visa and the Health and Care Worker Visa are designed for Belgians sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor and offer a pathway to permanent settlement in the UK.
| Visa Type and Details | UK Visa from Belgium Cost 2024 |
|---|---|
| Skilled Worker Visa For Belgians in skilled roles with a licensed Home Office sponsor. Offers a route to permanent UK settlement. | €864 (up to 3 years), €1,707 (over 3 years) |
| Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation) Visa For Belgians in specific shortage occupations. | €662 (up to 3 years), €1,303 (over 3 years) |
| Health And Care Work Visa For Belgian health professionals like doctors, nurses, or allied health professionals, sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor. Leads to permanent UK settlement. | €341 (up to 3 years), €662 (over 3 years) |
Global Business Mobility Visa UK
An overview of the UK work visas under the Global Business Mobility category for Belgian citizens, including their fees for 2024.
| Visa Category | UK Visa Fees Belgium 2024 |
|---|---|
| Senior or Specialist Worker Visa Ideal for senior managers or specialists from Belgium transferring to a UK branch. | – Up to three years €864 – Longer than three years €1,707 |
| Graduate Trainee Visa For Belgian individuals in graduate training programs leading to specialist roles in the UK. | €358 |
| UK Expansion Worker Visa For Belgian specialists or senior personnel looking to expand a business into the UK. | €358 |
| Service Supplier Visa For Belgian professionals providing services under UK trade agreements. | €358 |
| Secondment Worker Visa Specifically for Belgians seconded to the UK for significant contracts or investments. | €358 |
Quick Guide to Other Work and Business Visas:
Below is a brief overview of various UK visa categories along with their associated fees for Belgians looking to work or do business in the UK.
| Visa Category | UK Visa Fees Belgium 2024 |
|---|---|
| Start-Up Visa For Belgians starting an innovative business in the UK. | €523 |
| Innovator Visa For Belgians with innovative, viable, and scalable businesses. Requirements include an endorsement, £50,000 investment, and B2 IELTS level. | €1,431 |
| Innovator Founder Visa (Introduced 2023) Ideal for Belgian entrepreneurs. Simplified process with endorsement approval, could lead to UK family residency. | – Endorsement €1,202 – Application €1,431 |
| Investor Visa For high-value Belgians investing in the UK. | €2,264 |
| High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa For Belgian graduates from top-50 global universities seeking employment in the UK. | €988 |
| Scale-Up Visa For Belgians with a job offer from an authorised UK scale-up company. Leads to potential UK settlement after 5 years. | €988 |
| Global Talent Visa For Belgians who are leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, or digital technology. | – Approval Letter for initial application from Belgium: €630 – Belgian Main Applicant with Approval Letter: €231 – Main Applicant without Approval Letter and for Dependants: €860 |
| T2 Minister of Religion Visa For Belgians intending to undertake preaching and pastoral work. | €864 |
| International Sportsperson Visa For elite Belgian sportspersons or coaches contributing to UK sports. Fee varies based on Certificate of Sponsorship duration. | – Up to 12 months CoS €358 – More than 12 months CoS €864 |
| T5 (Temporary Worker) Visa For Belgians in various sectors, such as seasonal, religious, or creative workers. | €358 |
6. How to Apply for UK Visa from Belgium?
A comprehensive guide tailored for Belgians and residents in Belgium detailing the steps for applying for a UK visa. Note: The estimated cost provided is for a UK visitor visa. Residents in Belgium opting for priority service may complete the process within 5 working days instead of 15.
Total Time: 30 days
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Determine the Visa Type
Identify the specific category of visa that aligns with your purpose for traveling from Belgium to the UK.
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Create an Account
Go to the official UK government site for visas and immigration and create your account.
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Complete the Application Form
Application Process: Complete the relevant online application form, making sure that all provided information matches that in your supporting documents.
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Pay the Visa Fee
Upon form completion, the system will guide you to the online payment gateway for the application fee.
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Gather Your Supporting Documents
Based on the visa type, gather essential documents like your Belgium passport or resident permit, proof of finances, and UK accommodation details.
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Book an Appointment at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Belgium
If you’re not using the Immigration App for identity verification, it’s essential to schedule an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (UKVAC) in Belgium.
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Attend Your Appointment
Go to the VAC equipped with all your supporting documents and execute the biometric procedures according to what’s outlined in the details of your appointment.
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Wait for a Decision
Upon Submission: Once your application is submitted, UKVI will begin processing it. You will receive a notification as soon as the decision is made.
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Collection or Delivery of Passport
Collect your passport with the visa attached from the VAC, or opt for courier delivery.
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Prepare for UK Arrival
Ready to Travel: Now that you have your visa, it’s time to get ready for your journey to the UK. Remember to familiarize yourself with the conditions attached to your visa.
Estimated Cost: 138 €
Supply:
- Application form
- Valid Belgium Passport or Resident Permit
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Payment for visa fee in EURO
- Proof of accommodation in the UK
Tools:
- Internet access
- Belgium Passport or Resident Permit
- Financial documents
Materials: Printed online UK visa application form. Financial Documents such as last 6 months Bank Statements. Photocopies of the original documents such as Conveyance Deeds or Rental Agreement, Family Form etc.
7. UK Visa Supporting Documents Checklist from Belgium
Visa to UK from Belgium Application Guidelines for Belgian Citizens and Residents:
- Valid Passport or Travel Document: It should remain valid throughout your time in the UK, including a blank page for visa application.
- Application Form Submission: Complete this step on the UK Visas and Immigration portal.
- UK Accommodation Details: Provide where you will be staying in the UK.
- Evidence of Financial Means: Show your financial readiness for the duration of your stay.
- Itinerary for Travel in the UK: Outline your planned activities and travel details.
- Connection to Belgium Proof: Provide evidence to demonstrate your commitment to return to Belgium, such as family, employment, or educational ties.
- English Language Capability: If required, typically proven through a recognized English proficiency test.
Visa-Specific Documentation Requirements:
- For Work Visas: Includes a valid employment offer, Certificate of Sponsorship, and appropriate professional credentials.
- For Study Visas: Requires a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
- For Family Visas: Necessitates proofs of familial relationships, like marriage certificates or birth certificates.
- For Tourist Visas: Additional trip-related details may be requested.
Documents from UK-based Sponsors:
Belgian residents or citizens with UK sponsors should include supplementary documents from these sponsors. This is vital, especially for visas commonly requiring a sponsor, such as work or family visas.
Sponsorship Documentation May Comprise:
- Invitation Letter: Issued by the UK-based sponsor.
- Sponsor’s Legal Status in the UK: Evidence confirming this status.
- Sponsor’s Financial Stability Documents: Demonstrating the sponsor’s financial capacity.
- Proof of Accommodation by the Sponsor: Assurance of available lodging.
- Evidence of Sponsorship Relationship: Applicable for family or personal relationship verification.
Key Reminder for Belgian Applicants: Although documents from a UK sponsor can provide additional support, the primary visa eligibility criteria must be met by Belgian citizens and residents seeking UK visas.
8. FAQs: UK Visa Fees Belgium 2024
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How long can Belgians stay in the UK?
Belgians can stay up to 180 days on a visitor visa. For other visa types like spouse, student, and work visas, the duration is defined by the visa validity. Belgians can extend their stay by meeting Leave to Remain (LTR) requirements. Certain visa routes also allow for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventual British citizenship.
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How Many Belgians Live in the UK?
As of 2020, around 31,000 Belgian-born residents lived in the UK, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS). This figure may have changed and doesn’t include Belgian descendants or naturalized citizens.
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Do UK Citizens need a visa for Belgium?
From February 2023, short-term visits not exceeding 90 days will be exempt from visa requirements but will require ETIAS authorization.
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What Belgians can do if UK Visit Visa is Refused?
Belgians can reapply or seek Judicial Review. No appeal rights exist for visitor visa refusals. Appeals are possible on human rights grounds.
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Can Belgians Work on Visiting Visa in the UK?
Work is not permitted. Violations may lead to visa cancellation and re-entry bans.