What is a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa and who can apply?

A Belgium legal cohabitation visa is a long-stay visa, known as a Type D visa. It allows a non-EU citizen to join their partner in Belgium for the purpose of legally cohabiting. Legal cohabitation in Belgium is a formal arrangement registered at the municipality. It grants certain legal protections and obligations to partners living together. It is not marriage, but a recognized form of civil union.

Anyone in a stable and lasting relationship with a Belgian national or a legal resident of Belgium can apply. Both partners must be unmarried and not in another legal cohabitation. They must also have the legal capacity to enter into such an agreement, meaning they are typically over 18 years old. The non-EU applicant must apply from their country of residence. The Belgian partner or legal resident must demonstrate stable and sufficient financial means to support both individuals. They also need to provide proof of suitable accommodation in Belgium. This visa facilitates the legal registration of your cohabitation in Belgium, which then allows you to obtain a residence permit.

How can you prove a stable relationship for a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

Proving a stable relationship is a critical part of the Belgium legal cohabitation visa application. Belgian authorities require clear evidence of a genuine and lasting connection. This prevents abuse of the system.

You can prove a stable relationship in several ways. The most common method is demonstrating continuous cohabitation for at least one year before the application. This means you must have lived together. Provide rental agreements, utility bills, or bank statements showing a shared address.

If you have not lived together, you must show you have known each other for at least two years. Provide evidence of regular contact during this period. This includes chat logs, emails, call records, and letters. You must also prove you have met in person at least three times in the two years preceding the application. These meetings must total 45 days or more. Provide flight tickets, hotel bookings, and photos from these visits. A mutual child also serves as strong evidence of a stable relationship. Affidavits from friends and family who can attest to your relationship’s authenticity can also be helpful. The more comprehensive and consistent your evidence, the stronger your case.

What documents do you need for a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

Applying for a Belgium legal cohabitation visa requires a thorough set of documents. Prepare everything meticulously. You will need your valid passport. It must have at least six months’ validity beyond your intended stay. Provide a recent passport-sized photograph meeting Schengen visa standards.

A completed and signed visa application form is essential. You must also provide proof of payment for the visa application fee and the administrative fee to the Immigration Office. From your side, you need your full birth certificate. It must be legalized or apostilled and translated into Dutch, French, or German. You will also need proof of your civil status, confirming you are unmarried and not in another registered partnership. A police clearance certificate, no older than six months, is required. A medical certificate from an approved doctor, also no older than six months, attesting to your good health is also necessary.

From your Belgian partner, you need a copy of their identity card or residence permit. They must provide proof of their civil status. Proof of their legal residence in Belgium and proof of registered and sufficient lodging are also mandatory. Crucially, they need to show proof of stable, regular, and sufficient income. This typically includes recent pay slips or tax assessments. You both must provide evidence of your permanent and stable relationship. This includes communication records, photos, travel documents, and joint declarations from friends or relatives. Travel medical insurance valid for at least 90 days, covering €30,000, is also required. All foreign documents must be legalized or apostilled and translated.

Can you apply for a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa without living together?

Yes, you can apply for a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa without having lived together. While previous cohabitation is one way to prove a stable relationship, it is not the only way. Belgian immigration law provides alternative criteria for demonstrating the genuineness and stability of your relationship.

If you have not lived together, you must prove that you have known each other for at least two years. During this two-year period, you must show evidence of regular contact. This includes communication via phone calls, emails, and messages. You must also demonstrate that you have met in person at least three times in the two years leading up to the application. These meetings must have a combined duration of 45 days or more.

Provide supporting documents for these visits. Include flight tickets, hotel reservations, and dated photographs of you together. Affidavits from friends and family members who can confirm your relationship’s authenticity are also valuable. The key is to provide compelling evidence that your relationship is genuine and has been stable and lasting, even without a shared residence history.

How long does it take to get a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

The processing time for a Belgium legal cohabitation visa can vary. It depends on several factors. The volume of applications and the complexity of your specific case affect the timeline. The completeness and clarity of your submitted documents also play a major role.

Typically, the average processing time ranges from 3.5 to 4 months. However, this is an average. It can be shorter if your application is straightforward and all documents are in order. It can take longer if the Immigration Office requests additional information or if they conduct further checks on your relationship’s authenticity. This could extend the period to 85 days or even longer, up to several months.

During busy periods, such as summer or year-end, processing times might increase. The Belgian embassy or consulate in your country of residence forwards your application to the Belgian Immigration Office for the final decision. You will receive notification once a decision is made. Plan your application well in advance of your desired travel date.

Can your Belgian partner sponsor you for a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

Yes, your Belgian partner can absolutely sponsor you for a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa. This sponsorship is a fundamental part of the application. Your partner, being either a Belgian national or a legal resident in Belgium, is the “sponsor” in this process.

Their sponsorship involves several key responsibilities and requirements. Your partner must demonstrate sufficient and stable financial means to support both of you. This ensures you will not become a burden on the Belgian social welfare system. They will need to provide proof of their income, such as recent pay slips or tax assessments.

Your partner must also provide proof of suitable accommodation in Belgium where you both will reside. This shows you have a place to live upon your arrival. Furthermore, their legal residence status in Belgium is crucial. If they are a foreign national, they must hold a valid residence permit that allows them to sponsor family reunification or legal cohabitation. Their commitment to the relationship and willingness to provide this support are vital for your visa application.

What financial conditions apply to a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

Strict financial conditions apply to a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa. The primary goal is to ensure that the non-EU partner will not become dependent on Belgian social assistance. Your Belgian partner, as the sponsor, must prove they have stable, regular, and sufficient means of subsistence.

As of May 1, 2024, the sponsor must have at least €2,131.28 net per month. This amount is linked to 120% of the social integration income. This threshold is subject to change, so always verify the latest figures with official Belgian sources. The income must be stable and regular, not just a one-off payment. The Immigration Office prefers to see documents covering a suitably long reference period, ideally 12 months preceding the application.

Acceptable forms of income include salaries from employment, income from self-employment, and pensions. Certain types of income are not considered, such as social welfare benefits like living wage or child allowances. While the reference amount is a guideline, having income slightly below it does not automatically lead to rejection. The Immigration Office assesses the overall financial situation and needs of the family. However, meeting or exceeding the threshold significantly strengthens your application.

Is the visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa open to same-sex couples?

Yes, the visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa is open to same-sex couples. Belgium has long recognized same-sex unions. Legal cohabitation, as a form of civil union, is available to any two persons who agree to live together. This includes both heterosexual and homosexual couples.

The eligibility criteria and application process are identical for same-sex and opposite-sex couples. There is no discrimination based on sexual orientation. Both partners must meet the general conditions. These include being unmarried, having legal capacity, and demonstrating a stable and lasting relationship. Financial conditions and accommodation requirements also apply equally.

When preparing your application, focus on providing compelling evidence of your genuine relationship. The authorities will assess the authenticity of your bond, regardless of your gender. Belgium is an inclusive country regarding LGBTQ+ rights, so your same-sex cohabitation will be legally recognized.

What are the interview questions for a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

Interview questions for a Belgium legal cohabitation visa focus on verifying the authenticity and stability of your relationship. The interviewer seeks to confirm that your intent to cohabit is genuine and not solely for immigration purposes.

You can expect questions about how and when you met your partner. Be prepared to describe the circumstances and provide specific dates. They will ask about the evolution of your relationship, including significant milestones. You might be asked about your partner’s family, job, hobbies, or daily routine. They want to see how well you know each other.

Expect questions about your shared future plans. This includes your living arrangements in Belgium, your financial plans as a couple, and your social life. They might inquire about your last meeting, previous visits to Belgium, or your knowledge of Belgian culture. The interviewer may also ask about your past relationships to ensure you are not currently married or legally cohabiting with another person. Answer honestly and consistently. Any inconsistencies could raise doubts about the genuineness of your relationship. The goal is to present a cohesive narrative of your bond.

What rights do you get with a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

A visa for Belgium legal cohabitation is an entry visa (Type D). Its primary purpose is to allow you to enter Belgium to register your legal cohabitation. It is not a residence permit itself.

Once you arrive in Belgium and successfully register your legal cohabitation at the municipal administration, you can then apply for a residence permit. This residence permit, issued based on your legal cohabitation, grants you several rights.

With a valid residence permit based on legal cohabitation, you gain the right to legally reside in Belgium with your partner. You typically also gain the right to work in Belgium without needing a separate work permit. This means you can seek employment or become self-employed. You will also get access to Belgium’s social security system, including healthcare. Your rights will be similar to those of other legal residents. The legal cohabitation itself also grants certain legal protections, such as protection of the family home and mutual contribution to household expenses.

Can you work in Belgium with a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

Initially, the visa for Belgium legal cohabitation itself does not grant you the right to work. This Type D visa is an entry permit. Its purpose is to allow you to enter Belgium and formalize your legal cohabitation.

However, once you are in Belgium and have successfully registered your legal cohabitation at your municipality, you become eligible to apply for a residence permit. It is this residence permit, issued after the registration of your legal cohabitation, that generally grants you the right to work in Belgium.

With the residence permit based on legal cohabitation, you are usually free to seek employment or engage in self-employment without needing an additional work permit. This is a significant benefit of this visa category. Your focus upon arrival should be on completing the legal cohabitation registration and then applying for your residence card.

What happens if your visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa is rejected?

If your visa for Belgium legal cohabitation is rejected, you will receive a formal refusal letter. This letter will clearly state the specific reasons for the refusal. Do not panic. You have recourse options.

First, carefully read and understand the stated reasons for rejection. Common grounds include insufficient proof of a stable relationship, inadequate financial means of the sponsor, missing documents, or doubts about the genuineness of the cohabitation intent. Identifying the exact reason is crucial for your next steps.

You generally have the right to appeal the decision. The refusal letter will outline the appeal procedure. This typically involves lodging an appeal with the Council for Alien Law Litigation (CCE/RVV) within a specific timeframe, usually 30 days from receiving the notification. Alternatively, you might be able to submit a new application. If you reapply, ensure you address all the issues raised in the initial refusal. Seeking advice from an immigration lawyer is highly recommended. They can help you understand the refusal, prepare a strong appeal, or guide you through a new application.

Can you appeal a refused visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

Yes, you can appeal a refused visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa. Belgian law provides a clear appeal process for visa rejections. The refusal letter you receive will detail the reasons for the negative decision and explain how to proceed with an appeal.

You typically have 30 days from the date you receive the refusal notification to lodge an appeal. The appeal is usually directed to the Council for Alien Law Litigation (Conseil du Contentieux des Étrangers / Raad voor Vreemdelingenbetwistingen) in Belgium. This is an administrative court that reviews decisions made by the Immigration Office.

When appealing, you must address the specific reasons for the refusal. This might involve providing additional documents or compelling arguments that contradict the initial assessment. It is highly advisable to seek legal counsel from an immigration lawyer specializing in Belgian immigration law. They can help you prepare a comprehensive and strong appeal, ensuring all legal formalities are met and your case is presented effectively. An appeal can lead to the annulment of the refusal decision and a re-examination of your application.

Do you need health insurance for a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

Yes, you need health insurance for a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa. This is a mandatory requirement for your visa application. The insurance must meet specific criteria to be accepted.

Your travel medical insurance policy must cover a minimum of €30,000. It must be valid throughout all Schengen countries. The coverage must extend for at least 90 days from your intended date of entry into Belgium. This insurance should cover medical emergencies, urgent hospital treatment, repatriation costs due to medical reasons, and costs in the event of death.

This initial travel insurance covers your entry and the period before you register your cohabitation and gain access to the Belgian social security system. Once you have successfully registered your legal cohabitation and obtained your residence permit, you will then register with a Belgian “mutualité” (health insurance fund). This will provide you with comprehensive healthcare coverage within Belgium’s social security system.

Can you bring your children on a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

Yes, you can bring your children on a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa, but under specific conditions related to family reunification. The primary visa you apply for is for you to join your partner. Once you have obtained your residence permit based on legal cohabitation, your children can then apply for family reunification with you.

Your children must meet specific criteria. They must be under 18 years of age. They must be unmarried. You must have sole custody of them, or if there is shared custody, the other parent must provide explicit consent for the children to reside with you in Belgium.

If your children have a disability, they may be able to join you regardless of their age, provided you submit proof of their medical condition. The application process for children will involve providing their birth certificates, custody documents, and other relevant personal information. Your partner in Belgium, as the main sponsor, will also need to demonstrate sufficient financial means and adequate accommodation to support the children as well.

What role does the municipality play in the visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

The municipality plays a crucial role in the entire process of a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation. It is the central point for formalizing your cohabitation status.

Firstly, after you arrive in Belgium with your cohabitation visa, you must register your arrival at the municipal administration (commune/gemeente) of your partner’s place of residence within eight days. This is a mandatory step for all foreign nationals.

Secondly, and most importantly, the declaration of legal cohabitation itself takes place at the municipality. Both partners must go to the Population or Civil Status department of the local authority to formally declare their intention to legally cohabit. The municipality verifies that you meet the conditions for legal cohabitation. They will register your partnership, granting it legal recognition. This official registration is what allows you to then apply for your residence permit based on family reunification. The municipality also plays a role in verifying accommodation and sometimes financial means during the residence permit application process.

How do you register your partnership after getting the visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

After you receive your visa for Belgium legal cohabitation and arrive in Belgium, registering your partnership involves a few key steps at the local municipality.

Within eight days of your arrival in Belgium, you must report to the municipal administration (commune/gemeente) of the place where you intend to reside with your partner. You will declare your presence and register in the Aliens’ Register.

The next crucial step is to formally declare your legal cohabitation. Both you and your partner must go together to the Population or Civil Status department of your municipality of residence. You will present your identity documents and proof that you meet the conditions for legal cohabitation, such as being unmarried and having legal capacity. The municipality will verify these conditions. They will then register your declaration of legal cohabitation. This formal act legally recognizes your partnership in Belgium. Once this registration is complete, you can proceed with applying for your residence permit (A card) based on legal cohabitation, which allows you to reside long-term in Belgium.

Can you apply for permanent residence after a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

Yes, you can apply for permanent residence in Belgium after initially coming on a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation and subsequently obtaining your residence permit. The pathway to permanent residence is typically available after a period of continuous legal residence in Belgium.

After residing legally in Belgium for five consecutive years with a valid residence permit (such as the one obtained after registering your legal cohabitation), you usually become eligible to apply for permanent residency. This five-year period must be uninterrupted, though short absences are generally allowed.

When applying for permanent residence, the focus shifts from your relationship to your integration into Belgian society. You will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient and stable income to support yourself and your dependents. You must also prove you have health insurance. Evidence of integration, such as language skills or participation in integration courses, might also be considered. Permanent residence grants you a stable legal status comparable to Belgian citizens, allowing you to reside in Belgium indefinitely.

What are common reasons for refusal of a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

Several common reasons lead to the refusal of a visa for Belgium legal cohabitation. Understanding these helps in preparing a strong application.

A primary reason for refusal is insufficient proof of a stable and lasting relationship. If the authorities are not convinced your relationship is genuine, or if they suspect it’s a marriage of convenience, your application will be rejected. Inadequate financial means of the Belgian partner is another frequent reason. The sponsor must demonstrate consistent and sufficient income to support both individuals without reliance on social assistance.

Incomplete or incorrect documentation is also a major pitfall. Missing required certificates, invalid translations, or un-legalized documents will cause delays or outright refusal. Doubts about the authenticity of documents can also lead to rejection. A criminal record of the applicant or the sponsor is another serious ground for refusal. Finally, if the authorities believe the applicant intends to overstay or has no genuine intention to cohabit, the visa will be denied. Ensure all aspects of your application are clear, truthful, and thoroughly documented.

How do you renew or extend your visa for Belgium legal cohabitation visa?

The term “visa for Belgium legal cohabitation” refers to the initial Type D entry visa. This visa itself is for a limited duration and cannot be directly renewed or extended. Its purpose is to allow you entry into Belgium to register your legal cohabitation.

Once you arrive in Belgium and successfully register your legal cohabitation at your municipality, you then apply for a residence permit. This residence permit (often an A card initially) is what needs to be renewed or extended.

To renew your residence permit, you typically apply at your local municipal administration before your current permit expires. They will reassess your situation. You will need to provide updated documents, including proof that your legal cohabitation is still subsisting. You must also show that your partner still meets the financial requirements and that you continue to have suitable accommodation. The conditions for renewal usually remain similar to the initial application, focusing on the genuine and ongoing nature of your partnership and your partner’s ability to support you. Consistent compliance with Belgian laws and regulations also plays a role in successful renewals.

Why Choose Law and Visas For your Belgium Legal Cohabitation Visa Application

Applying for a Belgium legal cohabitation visa requires precision. Law and Visas offers expert guidance for your application. We simplify complex legal requirements. Our team helps you understand the specific criteria for demonstrating a stable relationship.

We meticulously review your documents. This includes proof of cohabitation or extensive contact history. We ensure all financial conditions are met by your Belgian partner. We prepare you thoroughly for the embassy interview, addressing potential questions about your relationship.

Choosing Law and Visas means you have dedicated support. We help you navigate the Belgian immigration process effectively. Our goal is to secure your visa, enabling you to legally cohabit with your partner in Belgium. Let us assist you in this significant step.

Why Choose Law and Visas as Immigration Law Firm in Lagos

Selecting an immigration law firm requires trust and expertise. Law and Visas in Lagos offers focused support for your immigration needs. They understand Nigerian specific challenges. This local insight is crucial for smooth applications.

Their team possesses deep knowledge of various immigration laws. They stay updated on changing regulations. This ensures your application meets current requirements. You avoid common pitfalls that lead to denials.

Law and Visas simplifies complex processes. They guide you step-by-step. You receive clear advice on documentation and procedures. This reduces stress and confusion. Their tailored approach addresses your unique situation.

They provide honest and straightforward advice. You get realistic expectations about your case. This transparency builds confidence. Law and Visas prioritizes client success. Are you looking for reliable and expert immigration guidance in Lagos?

Law and Visas: Your Belgium Legal Cohabitation Visa Agent in Nigeria

Applying for a Belgium legal cohabitation visa from Nigeria requires specific knowledge. Law and Visas specializes in this process. We understand Nigerian applicants’ unique challenges. Our local presence means we are accessible to you.

We guide you through every step. From document gathering to interview preparation, we provide tailored support. Our team ensures your application meets all Belgian requirements. We help you navigate Nigerian regulations for required certificates. This local expertise is invaluable.

Do not face the complex visa process alone. Law and Visas offers reliable, professional assistance. We maximize your chances of a successful application. Let us help you join your partner in Belgium.

Our Immigration Lawyer and Consultant For  Belgium Legal Cohabitation 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 Legal Cohabitation 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 Legal Cohabitation Visa with Law and Visas

Starting your Belgium legal cohabitation visa application with Law and Visas is a straightforward process. First, contact us for an initial consultation. You can reach us by phone or email. We will discuss your specific situation. This helps us understand your eligibility.

Next, we provide a personalized checklist of required documents. We guide you on how to obtain each item. This includes the crucial legal cohabitation certificate from Belgium. We assist with document review and translation. Our team ensures everything is properly legalized.

Finally, we help prepare your application for submission to the Belgian embassy in Nigeria. We can schedule your appointment. We also offer interview preparation. We are here to support you until your visa is granted.

Client Reviews: Belgium Legal Cohabitation Visa

“My partner, David, lives in Brussels. For months, we struggled with how I, Bola, could join him from Lagos. The Belgium legal cohabitation visa seemed complex. Every online search gave different information. We felt overwhelmed. Then, a friend recommended Law and Visas.

From the first call, their team was clear and supportive. They explained every document needed, from my birth certificate legalization to David’s financial proofs. They even helped us understand the specifics of the cohabitation certificate from his commune. I remember one specific instance where a document translation was causing issues. Law and Visas quickly resolved it. They liaised directly with the translation service.

Their guidance through the interview preparation was invaluable. I felt confident answering questions about our relationship. They helped me present our shared life plans clearly. Six months after starting, I received my visa. It was such a relief. Law and Visas made a seemingly impossible task manageable. We are now building our life together in Belgium. I highly recommend their services to anyone in Nigeria seeking this visa.”

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.

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Written by Our Immigration Experts

Amaka Nwafor – Immigration Research Analyst

Amaka Nwafor, our Immigration Research Analyst, shares her deep knowledge of Nigerian immigration law. She covers both family and business visas. Amaka clearly explains application processes and offers tips for a smooth experience. Her writing helps you prepare thoroughly, providing actionable steps you can take.

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.