Visa Process Overview
Below is a general overview of your expected student visa or residence permit application process. Step-by-step instructions on how to apply for your student visa will be posted below as soon as they are updated for your specific departure cycle. As instructions are posted for your program and cycle, you will receive an email notification.
The visa application process, including requirements and fees, are subject to change.
What type of visa do I need?
You will be applying for a Study Visa (Type D) for Belgium. You will also need to apply for a Residence Permit/Visa Extension after arrival.
How do I apply for the visa?If your Consulate is in Washington DC, you will be required to appear in-person. Otherwise, you will need to send your passport and additional required documents to Consulate which has jurisdiction over your state.
What documents will I need to collect in order to apply for the visa?- United States Passport valid at least three months after your return
- Visa Application Form
- Passport-sized Photographs
- FBI Background Check (for participants 21 and older on the Community Service program. Requires an Apostille)
- Parental Consent Form (Who needs to sign?)
- Birth Certificate
- Certificate of Good Health
- Proof of Financial Means
You will also receive additional documents from AFS-USA and AFS-Belgium (Flanders) necessary for applying for your visa.
Requirements may vary between Consulates. Additional documents may be required. Do not begin collecting your documents until you are notified by AFS.
You must send your prepared documents or apply in-person for your visa one month before departure.
How much will the visa cost?The visa processing fee is currently $252 USD, but may vary between Consulates. There is also a fee of €12 for the residence permit after arrival in Belgium.
Are there any other expected costs?There are many additional costs involved in obtaining, translating, notarizing, legalizing, or mailing the required documents. There may also be additional costs associated with traveling to the Consulate for an in-person appointment.
Are any of these costs covered in my AFS program tuition?No, your program fee does not cover any of the costs related to obtaining your passport or visa.
Can I travel before the start of my program?You should not plan any excursions outside of the United States three months prior to your program. If you travel before the start of your program, you will run the risk of not being able to participate on your program.
Full Visa InstructionsIf you are participating in a Year program to Belgium (Flanders), you will be notified when the full visa instructions are available. Do not begin the visa process until you are notified by AFS.
Fees and requirements are determined by immigration authorities and are subject to change at any time. For help with any terms, please view the Visa Glossary.
