Who can apply for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

Anyone who intends to visit family members or friends residing in Belgium can apply for this visa. This category of visa is for short stays. It is suitable for tourism with a specific purpose of visiting known individuals.

You must have a genuine relationship with your host in Belgium. This relationship can be familial, such as parents, siblings, or children. It can also be a close friendship. The nature of the relationship impacts the application.

You must not intend to work or study in Belgium on this visa. Its sole purpose is for temporary visits.

You need to show you have sufficient funds for your stay. This covers your expenses while in Belgium. If your host is sponsoring you, they must meet certain financial criteria.

You must prove your intention to return to your home country. This means showing strong ties to Nigeria.

Your passport must be valid. It needs at least two blank pages. It should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area.

Minors can also apply. They need parental consent and specific documents. We will discuss this in more detail later.

Are you visiting a distant relative or an acquaintance? You must still provide compelling evidence of the relationship.

What documents do you need for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

Gathering the correct documents is crucial for your Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa application. Be thorough.

You need a valid passport. It must meet the Schengen visa requirements. This means at least three months validity beyond your intended return date. It needs two blank pages.

Submit a completed and signed Schengen visa application form. Ensure all sections are filled accurately.

Provide two recent passport-sized photos. They must adhere to Schengen photo specifications.

You need an invitation letter from your host in Belgium. This letter is critical. It must contain specific details about your visit and your host.

Your host also needs to provide a formal obligation, known as an “Annexe 3bis,” legalized by their municipality in Belgium. This document is for sponsorship.

Proof of your relationship with the host is necessary. This can include birth certificates or marriage certificates for family. For friends, it might be photos or correspondence.

Demonstrate sufficient financial means. This can be your bank statements. If your host sponsors you, their financial proof is also required.

You need proof of accommodation. This is usually implied by the invitation letter if you are staying with your host.

Provide a round-trip flight reservation. Do not purchase actual tickets before visa approval.

Travel medical insurance is mandatory. It must cover at least €30,000 for medical emergencies. It needs to be valid across the entire Schengen area.

Show proof of your ties to Nigeria. This convinces the consulate you will return.

How do you prove your relationship for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

Proving your relationship with your Belgian host is a key part of your visa application. The type of proof depends on your relationship.

For family members, official documents work best. These include:

• Birth certificates.
• Marriage certificates.
• Family composition certificates.
• Copies of family registers.

These documents establish blood or marital ties. Ensure they are officially translated if not in English, French, Dutch, or German.

For friends, the proof is more informal but still important. You can provide:

• Photographs of you and your friend together over time.
• Screenshots of chat histories.
• Email correspondence.
• Evidence of previous visits or interactions.

The goal is to demonstrate a genuine, long-standing relationship. Vague or recent connections might raise suspicion.

Your host’s invitation letter should also describe your relationship. Their personal statement can strengthen your claim.

The consulate may request additional proof or conduct an interview. Be prepared to explain the nature and history of your relationship.

What kind of invitation letter is required for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

The invitation letter from your Belgian host is a cornerstone of your visa application. It needs to be precise and detailed.

The letter must be written by your host. It should include:

• Full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number of the invited person (you).
• Full name, address, nationality, and contact details of the host in Belgium.
• The exact dates and duration of your intended stay in Belgium.
• The purpose of your visit (e.g., visiting family, holiday with friends).
• The nature of your relationship with the host.
• Where you will stay during your visit (your host’s address).
• A clear statement confirming the host’s invitation.

If the host is sponsoring your trip, this must be explicitly stated. They will also need to provide the “Annexe 3bis” form.

The host should sign the letter. Sometimes, a legalization of the host’s signature by their local Belgian municipality is required. Always check specific embassy requirements.

The letter shows the Belgian authorities that a genuine invitation exists. It clarifies the purpose and details of your visit.

Can your host in Belgium sponsor your visa application?

Yes, your host in Belgium can definitely sponsor your visa application. This is a common arrangement for Visiting Family or Friends Visas.

Sponsorship means your host takes financial responsibility for you during your stay. This is particularly helpful if you do not have sufficient personal funds.

To sponsor you, your host must provide a formal obligation form. This form is known as “Annexe 3bis” (Bijlage 3bis). They obtain this from their local municipality in Belgium. This form must be legalized by the municipality.

Your host also needs to show proof of their own financial means. They usually submit their recent salary slips and income tax assessment papers. This demonstrates they can support you without becoming a burden on the Belgian state.

They will also provide a copy of their ID card or residence permit. A family composition certificate from their municipality may also be required.

Sponsorship strengthens your visa application. It reassures the authorities you will not face financial difficulties. It also implies that your host has a stable legal residence in Belgium.

What financial proof do you need for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

Financial proof is essential for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa. You must show you can cover your expenses during your stay.

You have two main options for financial proof:

1. Your own financial means:
   • Provide personal bank statements for the last three to six months. These should show sufficient funds to cover your daily expenses. Belgium typically requires around €45 per day if staying with a host, and €95 per day if staying in a hotel.
   • Submit salary slips or an employment letter. This proves a steady income source.
   • Other verifiable sources of income can also be considered, like property income.
2. Sponsorship by your host:
   • If your host is sponsoring you, they must provide a formal obligation form (“Annexe 3bis”). This form must be legalized by their municipality.
   • Your host will also submit their financial documents. This includes recent salary slips (e.g., last three months) and their most recent income tax assessment.
   • They might also need to provide a copy of their ID and a family composition certificate.

It is crucial that the financial proof is clear and sufficient. Inconsistent or unexplained large deposits in your bank account just before applying can raise suspicions. Ensure your financial situation appears stable and credible.

Can you apply for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa without travel history?

Yes, you can apply for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa even without prior international travel history. While travel history can strengthen an application, its absence does not automatically lead to refusal.

However, if you have no travel history, you must compensate with other strong proofs. You need to convince the visa officer of your genuine intent to return home.

Focus on demonstrating strong ties to Nigeria. These include:

• Stable employment: Provide a detailed employment letter stating your position, salary, and leave dates.
• Family ties: Show evidence of family in Nigeria, such as a spouse and children. Provide marriage and birth certificates.
• Property ownership: If you own property in Nigeria, submit relevant documents like deeds.
• Financial stability: Present robust bank statements showing consistent income and savings.

Your host’s invitation and sponsorship (Annexe 3bis) become even more critical without travel history. They provide a strong reason for your visit and financial backing.

Be prepared for a thorough interview. The visa officer might ask more questions about your motivations and ties to your home country. Clearly explain your trip’s purpose.

How long can you stay in Belgium on a Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

A Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa is a short-stay Schengen visa. It allows you to stay for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.

This 90/180-day rule applies across the entire Schengen area. If you spend time in other Schengen countries, those days count towards your 90-day limit.

The visa itself can be issued for a specific duration. This duration might be exactly for the dates you requested. It could also be for a longer period, allowing multiple entries within the 90/180-day rule.

For example, a visa might be valid for six months, but you can only stay a total of 90 days within those six months.

The exact duration of your granted visa depends on the consulate’s assessment. It depends on your invitation letter and proposed itinerary.

It is critical not to overstay your visa. Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and a ban from entering the Schengen area for several years. Always monitor your stay duration carefully.

What is the visa fee for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

The standard visa fee for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa (a Schengen C-type visa) is usually €80.

For children aged between six and 12 years, the fee is generally €40. Children under six years old are usually exempt from the visa fee.

These fees are subject to change. Always check the official website of the Belgian Embassy or the visa application center in Nigeria for the most current fee schedule.

The fee is typically paid in Naira at the prevailing exchange rate. This payment is usually made at the visa application center.

Remember that the visa fee is non-refundable. This applies even if your visa application is refused. It covers the administrative cost of processing your application.

There might also be additional service fees. These are charged by the external service provider (like VFS Global or TLScontact) if you apply through them. These service fees are separate from the visa fee.

Be prepared to pay both fees at the time of your application submission.

How early should you apply for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

You should apply for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa well in advance of your planned travel date. This allows ample time for processing.

You can apply up to six months before your intended travel date. This is the earliest you can submit your application.

The recommended minimum application time is 15 days before your trip. However, this is the absolute shortest processing time. Do not rely on it.

Processing times can vary significantly. Factors affecting processing include:

• Peak seasons: Holidays like summer and Christmas lead to higher volumes and longer waits.
• Completeness of application: Incomplete applications cause delays as the consulate requests missing documents.
• Individual case assessment: Some applications require more detailed checks, extending the process.
• Embassy workload: The specific embassy or consulate’s capacity can impact speed.

It is highly advisable to apply at least one to two months before your planned departure. This gives you a good buffer. If your application requires further scrutiny or interview, you will have time.

Avoid last-minute applications to prevent stress and potential disappointment.

Can you visit other Schengen countries with a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

Yes, absolutely. A Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa is a Schengen C-type visa. This means it allows you to travel freely within the entire Schengen area.

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries. Once you enter Belgium with your visa, you can move between these countries without further border checks.

This is a significant benefit. You can visit your family or friends in Belgium, then explore Paris, Rome, or Berlin without needing separate visas.

However, remember the main purpose of your trip must align with your visa. If your primary destination is Belgium for visiting family/friends, but you spend significantly more time in another Schengen country, it could raise questions for future applications.

Always adhere to the “first point of entry” rule. You should apply for the visa at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time. If your stay duration is equal in multiple countries, apply at the embassy of your first entry.

The 90-day within 180-day rule still applies across the entire Schengen zone. Do not exceed this limit.

What questions can you expect during the visa interview?

The Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa interview aims to clarify your intentions. Be prepared for questions about your trip and personal circumstances.

Common questions include:

• Purpose of visit: “Why are you going to Belgium?” “Who are you visiting?” “What is your relationship to them?”
• Host details: “What does your host do?” “How long have they been in Belgium?” “What is their address?”
• Travel itinerary: “When do you plan to leave Belgium?” “What are your specific plans for each day?”
• Financial means: “How will you finance your trip?” “Who is covering your expenses?” “Can you show proof of funds?”
• Ties to home country: “What is your job in Nigeria?” “Do you have family here?” “Do you own property?” “What commitments do you have here?”
• Travel history: “Have you traveled to the Schengen area before?” “Have you ever been refused a visa?”
• Accommodation: “Where will you be staying in Belgium?”
• Intent to return: “What ensures you will return to Nigeria?”

Be honest and consistent with your answers. Refer to your application documents. Do not provide information that contradicts your submitted papers. Practice your answers in advance.

How do you show proof of accommodation for your stay in Belgium?

For a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa, your proof of accommodation is usually tied to your host.

The primary method is through the invitation letter from your host. This letter should explicitly state that you will be staying at their address. It needs to include their full address.

If your host is providing the “Annexe 3bis” (formal obligation) form, this also serves as strong proof of accommodation, as it often includes details of where you will reside.

In some cases, the consulate might request additional proof from your host. This could include:

• A copy of their lease agreement or property deed.
• Recent utility bills in their name to confirm residence.
• A copy of their Belgian ID card or residence permit.

If, for any reason, you plan to stay in a hotel for part of your visit, then you would also provide hotel reservations for those specific dates.

The key is to show you have a confirmed place to stay for the entire duration of your trip. This reassures the authorities that you will not be homeless or rely on public services for accommodation.

Can your friend in Belgium send you an invitation even if not related by blood?

Yes, your friend in Belgium can certainly send you an invitation for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa, even if you are not related by blood. The visa category explicitly includes “friends.”

The requirements for an invitation from a friend are similar to those for family. Your friend must issue a formal invitation letter. This letter should detail:

• Your personal information and their personal information.
• The dates of your visit.
• The purpose of your trip (e.g., spending time with them, touring).
• Where you will be accommodated (their address).
• Crucially, the letter should explain the nature and history of your friendship. How long have you known each other? How often do you communicate? Have you visited each other before?

Your friend can also sponsor your trip by providing the “Annexe 3bis” form. This is especially important if you lack sufficient personal funds.

You will still need to provide proof of your relationship. This can be through photos, correspondence, or joint travel documents from previous trips. The more compelling your evidence of a genuine friendship, the stronger your application.

What are the common reasons for rejection of a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa applications can be refused for several common reasons. Understanding these helps you avoid pitfalls.

• Unclear purpose of visit: If the consulate doubts your true reason for travel, or if your invitation seems fabricated.
• Insufficient proof of funds: You or your host cannot demonstrate adequate financial means to cover your stay.
• Weak ties to home country: The visa officer is not convinced you will return to Nigeria after your visit. This is a very common reason.
• Incomplete or incorrect documentation: Missing required documents, or submitting documents with errors or inconsistencies.
• Past immigration violations: Previous overstays in the Schengen area, or a history of visa fraud.
• Invalid travel insurance: Your insurance does not meet the minimum coverage or validity requirements.
• Passport issues: Your passport is not valid for long enough, or it lacks blank pages.
• Security risk: You are deemed a threat to public policy, internal security, or public health.
• Dubious invitation: The inviting person in Belgium has a suspicious profile, or their invitation seems insincere.

Ensure every part of your application is meticulously prepared. Address each potential refusal reason with strong, clear evidence.

Do you need travel insurance to apply for this type of visa?

Yes, travel insurance is an absolute necessity when applying for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa. It is a mandatory requirement for all Schengen visas.

Your travel medical insurance must meet specific criteria:

• Minimum coverage: It must cover at least €30,000 for medical emergencies. This includes any costs for urgent medical attention and hospitalization.
• Repatriation coverage: The policy must include coverage for repatriation in case of serious illness or death. This ensures you can be transported back to Nigeria if needed.
• Validity: The insurance must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay in the Schengen area.
• Schengen area coverage: The policy must be valid across all Schengen member states.

You must purchase this insurance before you submit your visa application. You will need to provide proof of your policy. This usually comes in the form of a confirmation letter from the insurance provider.

Without proper travel insurance that meets these strict requirements, your Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa application will be refused. Do not overlook this critical step.

Can a minor apply for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

Yes, a minor can apply for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa. However, there are additional specific requirements to ensure the minor’s welfare and parental consent.

In addition to the standard documents, a minor applicant must provide:

• Birth certificate: A copy of the minor’s full birth certificate.
• Parental consent: A notarized letter of consent from both parents or legal guardians. This is required if the minor is traveling alone or with only one parent.
• Parents’ passport copies: Certified copies of the identity pages of both parents’ or legal guardians’ passports.
• Proof of sole custody: If only one parent has legal custody, a court order granting sole parental responsibilities and rights must be presented.
• Travel with one parent: If traveling with one parent, the non-traveling parent’s consent is crucial.
• Death certificates: If one or both parents are deceased, their death certificates are required.

The visa application form for a minor must be signed by both parents or legal guardians.

These extra documents ensure that the minor is traveling with the full knowledge and permission of their legal guardians. They protect the minor and prevent child abduction.

How do you prove you will return to your country after visiting Belgium?

Proving your intention to return to your home country (Nigeria) is one of the most critical aspects of your Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa application. Visa officers need assurance you are not attempting to overstay.

Demonstrate strong ties through:

• Employment: Provide an official letter from your employer. This letter should state your position, start date, salary, and confirmed leave period. It shows you have a job to return to.
• Family ties: Present proof of family responsibilities in Nigeria. This includes marriage certificates (if applicable) and birth certificates of dependent children. This shows you have a family waiting for you.
• Property ownership: Submit documents like title deeds or land agreements if you own real estate in Nigeria. This indicates a significant asset tying you to your home country.
• Financial stability: Provide bank statements showing regular income and savings in Nigeria. This demonstrates financial roots.
• Enrollment in studies: If you are a student, provide a letter from your educational institution confirming your enrollment and expected return date.
• Social and community involvement: While harder to document, active participation in community groups or clubs can be mentioned.

The more evidence you provide, the stronger your case becomes. The goal is to show that your life is firmly established in Nigeria and you have every reason to come back.

What is the difference between a Belgium Tourist Visa and a Visiting Family or Friends Visa?

Both the Belgium Tourist Visa and the Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa are types of short-stay Schengen C-visas. They allow a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The primary difference lies in the stated purpose of travel and the supporting documentation.

• Belgium Tourist Visa:
  • Purpose: General tourism, sightseeing, leisure activities, and exploring the country independently.
  • Key documents: Hotel bookings for accommodation, a detailed travel itinerary, and proof of sufficient personal funds. There is no invitation letter from a resident.
• Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa:
  • Purpose: Primarily to visit specific family members or friends residing in Belgium.
  • Key documents: An invitation letter from the host in Belgium. Often, a formal obligation (Annexe 3bis) from the host is required if they are sponsoring you. Proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates, photos, correspondence) is crucial. Your accommodation is typically with the host.

While you can still do tourist activities on a Visiting Family or Friends Visa, the core reason for your travel is to see your contacts. The documentation supports this specific purpose. The choice of visa category depends on your main reason for going to Belgium.

How do you track your Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa application?

Tracking your Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa application is a straightforward process. This allows you to monitor its progress after submission.

If you applied through a Visa Application Centre (VAC) like VFS Global or TLScontact, they usually provide an online tracking system.

1. Receive an application reference number: When you submit your application, you will receive a unique reference number. Keep this number safe.
2. Visit the VAC website: Go to the official website of the VAC where you submitted your application.
3. Locate the “Track Your Application” section: This is usually clearly visible on the homepage.
4. Enter your reference number and passport details: Follow the prompts to input the required information.
5. View your status: The system will display the current status of your application. This might show stages like “Application Submitted,” “Under Processing,” “Passport Dispatched,” or “Ready for Collection.”

Some consulates also allow direct tracking via the Immigration Office website if your application has been forwarded to them for a decision. You would use the visa application reference number provided by the embassy or consulate.

Tracking provides peace of mind. It helps you know when to expect your passport back.

Why Choose Law and Visas For your Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa Application

Applying for a Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa can feel overwhelming. Law and Visas simplifies the entire process.

We know the specific requirements. We ensure your application is complete and accurate. This prevents common errors that cause delays or refusals.

Our team helps you gather all necessary documents. This includes the complex “Annexe 3bis” form for sponsorship. We ensure your proof of relationship is compelling.

We assist with preparing strong financial proof. Whether you fund yourself or have a sponsor, we guide you.

Law and Visas helps you showcase your ties to Nigeria. We strengthen your case for returning home. This is crucial for visa approval.

Why navigate this alone? Let Law and Visas manage your application. Focus on planning your trip to see loved ones.

 Why Law and Visas is the Best Immigration Lawyer in Nigeria

Law and Visas stands out as a leading immigration law firm in Nigeria. Their strength lies in deep expertise across diverse immigration pathways. They do not offer generic advice. Instead, they provide tailored solutions for each client’s unique situation.

Their team possesses a thorough understanding of international immigration laws and Nigerian regulations. This dual knowledge is crucial for successful applications. Law and Visas ensures meticulous preparation of all documents, minimizing errors and potential rejections. They communicate clearly and promptly, keeping clients informed at every stage. Their focus on client success, coupled with their specific knowledge of the Nigerian context, sets them apart. Do you want an immigration partner who truly understands your needs?

Law and Visas: Your Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa Agent in Nigeria

Law and Visas serves as a dedicated agent for Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visas in Nigeria. We understand the specific nuances for Nigerian applicants.

We provide comprehensive support, from initial consultation to visa submission. Our team assists with document preparation, ensuring every detail aligns with Belgian Embassy requirements. This includes correctly handling the crucial invitation letter and, if needed, the “Annexe 3bis” sponsorship form.

We guide you on demonstrating strong ties to Nigeria. This is vital for showing your intent to return. We also help prepare you for potential visa interviews.

Our aim is to make your visa application process smooth and stress-free. We work diligently to increase your chances of a successful outcome. Let Law and Visas help you connect with your loved ones in Belgium.

Our Immigration Lawyer and Consultant For  Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa

Olumide Adewumi – Director of Immigration Services

Olumide leads our immigration team. He brings 15 years of service. He focuses on complex cases. He ensures clients receive clear guidance. Olumide excels in  Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa. He simplifies the application process. His experience means successful outcomes for you.

Tayo Mogaji – Head of Immigration Consultancy

Tayo guides clients through immigration paths. She designs custom visa strategies. Tayo understands global immigration rules. She helps clients navigate requirements. Her advice is practical. You get direct, actionable steps.

Ada Cooker – Senior Immigration Lawyer

Ada provides expert legal support. She handles diverse immigration matters. Ada excels in detailed case preparation. She ensures every application is strong. Her focus is your successful visa approval. Ada makes the legal process understandable.

How to Start Your Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa with Us at Law and Visas

Beginning your Belgium Visiting Family or Friends Visa journey with Law and Visas is simple. We aim to provide a stress-free experience.

First, reach out to us. You can call or email our office. Briefly describe your travel plans and who you intend to visit in Belgium.

Next, we arrange a consultation. During this meeting, we discuss your specific circumstances. We identify the best strategy for your application.

We then provide you with a personalized document checklist. This ensures you gather every necessary item. We explain each requirement clearly.

You collect your documents. Our team meticulously reviews them for accuracy. We spot any potential issues before submission.

We assist with completing your online application form. We also guide you on scheduling your appointment at the visa application center in Nigeria.

With Law and Visas, you get comprehensive support until your visa decision. Let us help you reunite with your family and friends in Belgium.

Client Success Stories: Belgium Visiting Family and Friends Visa

Mrs. Ifeoma Eze, a retired teacher, also shared her gratitude. “My grandchild was born in Brussels, and I desperately wanted to visit. I worried about showing proof of funds since I’m retired. Law and Visas understood my situation perfectly. They advised on how to use my pension statements and property documents effectively. 

They also ensured my son-in-law’s sponsorship papers were flawless. The interview felt less intimidating after their preparation tips. I held my grandchild in my arms just weeks later. Their support was invaluable. They genuinely care about helping families connect.”

How to Contact Law and Visas

You can reach Law and Visas through various channels.

Visit Our Office: Our physical address is 123 Obadina Street, Omole Phase 1, Ojodu, Lagos, Nigeria.

Call Us: For immediate assistance, call our phone number: +2348125505986.

Message Us on WhatsApp: Connect with us via WhatsApp at ‪+44 7861 392567‬.

Send an Email: For general inquiries, email us at contact@lawandvisas.com.

Our Opening Hours: 

Monday to Friday: 8 am to 5 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm

Ready to start your application? Start an Application Now. Need specific advice? Book a Consultation now.

Written by Our Immigration Experts

Maryam Sadiq – Business and General Immigration Advisor

Maryam Sadiq, our Business and General Immigration Advisor, writes about various business and general immigration matters. She provides guidance on investment visas and family reunification. Maryam clarifies diverse visa categories. Her articles give you essential information, making sure you understand your immigration path.

Legal Disclaimer 

This information is for general use only. It is not legal advice. Laws change. The content here may not be current. We do not guarantee its accuracy. We are not responsible for any errors. Always speak with an Immigration Advice Service lawyer before you act on any information here.