Visa-free entry with a family residence card
No visa neededFamily members of any nationality with a qualifying residence card can enter when accompanying or joining their European Union single market family member.
- Stay
- Up to three months.
2 ways to enter
Belgium visas
Belgium family visa
Certain family members of European Union single market citizens can visit Belgium without a visa using a qualifying residence card. Longer stays generally require the applicable residence permission.
Ways to get a Belgium family visa
Family visa at the border
Visa on arrivalIn principle, a family member of a European Union single market citizen who lacks the documents needed for the exemption can obtain a visa at the border by proving the family relationship.
Who needs it
Family members who do not meet an exemption need the applicable entry permission.
Who doesn't
Family members of European Union single market citizens can qualify for visa-free entry with a valid travel document and a residence card showing their family status.
What to bring
- A valid travel document.
- A residence card showing that you are a family member of a European Union single market citizen.
Good to know
- Normally, accompany or join your single market family member.
- A qualifying family residence card issued by a Schengen country also permits independent travel to another Schengen country.
- The single market includes European Union countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
- Detailed Belgian family settlement requirements are not specified here.
Questions
Do I need a family visa for Belgium?
Family members who do not meet an exemption need the applicable entry permission. Family members of European Union single market citizens can qualify for visa-free entry with a valid travel document and a residence card showing their family status.
What are the ways to get a family visa for Belgium?
There are 2 options: Visa-free entry with a family residence card (no visa at all); Family visa at the border (a visa at the border).
Who can go to Belgium without a family visa?
Family members of any nationality with a qualifying residence card can enter when accompanying or joining their European Union single market family member.
How long can I stay on a Belgium family visa?
Up to three months under the family residence card exemption.
What documents do I need for a Belgium family visa?
A valid travel document.; A residence card showing that you are a family member of a European Union single market citizen..
What rules do I have to follow on a Belgium family visa?
Normally, accompany or join your single market family member. A qualifying family residence card issued by a Schengen country also permits independent travel to another Schengen country.
Does my passport change whether I need a family visa for Belgium?
Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Belgium visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.
Can a family visa for Belgium be refused?
Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.
Where do I check the latest Belgium family visa rules?
On Belgium's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.
Can I change my family visa once I am in Belgium?
Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.
Reviewed by @snuck