New Visa Requirements for Non-EU Students in Belgium
As of the 2026-2027 academic year, non-EU students wishing to study in Belgium will need to demonstrate a higher minimum amount to obtain their student visa. The Minister of Asylum and Migration, Anneleen Van Bossuyt, announced this measure to ensure that students can support themselves without relying on social assistance.
Current and Revised Financial Requirements
Until now, foreign students had to prove that they had approximately €835 per month, or €10,020 for a full year. This amount has been revised to €1,050 per month, which, after indexing, represents €1,062 per month for the 2026/2027 year. Over 12 months, this amounts to €12,744, nearly €3,000 more than the previous year. This net amount must cover common expenses such as housing, food, health, transportation, and other essential costs related to student life in Belgium.
Objectives of the New Measure
This increase aims to limit abusive visa applications and ensure that students do not rely on social assistance after their arrival. Belgian universities support this initiative, as the Belgian Foreigners' Office rejected over 2,600 student visa applications last year, including more than 500 from Moroccan students. This increase in the financial threshold is expected to reduce the number of applications and secure access to studies for those with the necessary resources.
Justification for the Changes
The Belgian government cites several reasons to justify these changes:
- Ensuring that foreign students can live decently in Belgium
- Preventing the misuse of student visas as an easy route to immigration
- Maintaining a balance between academic attractiveness and regulation of international student flows
Demonstrating Financial Capacity
According to the usual conditions published by the Belgian immigration services (Long-stay Visa D for studies), there are several ways to demonstrate that one has the necessary resources, such as:
- An official scholarship covering all or part of the needs
- Proof of funds deposited into a blocked account to cover the student's expenses for the entire year
- A certificate from a solvent guarantor who undertakes to finance the student
These changes aim to ensure that non-EU students have a stable financial situation, allowing them to focus on their studies without relying on social assistance.
