Belgium Digital Nomad Visa
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Nadia Dardón
Freelance writer
Last update
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Belgium Rating from Citizen Remote
Overall 
3.8
Internet Infrastructure 4.0
Country Stability 5.0
Cost of Living 2.0
Ease of Obtaining Visa 4.0
Taxes 4.0
Quick Visa Facts
Visa length 2 years
Possible to extend? Yes
Who can apply? Non-EU citizens
Minimum Income Requirements N/A
Time for visa applications 120 days
Want to know if you can apply?
Complete a visa quiz and see if you qualify!
Belgium Digital Nomad Visa Overview
Belgium is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a new destination for their Digital Nomad journey. With delicious food, amazing landscapes, and a wonderful culture, Belgium has a lot to offer to anyone who visits the country.
However, working in Belgium as a digital nomad may be more challenging than in other European countries. First of all, Belgium does not have an official digital nomad visa. It is also illegal to work remotely with a Belgium tourist visa.
That does not mean it is impossible for digital nomads to live and work in this incredible country. There are other visa options that work perfectly with remote workers. The best option is the Professional Card.
The Belgium Professional Card sometimes referred to as the Freelance Visa or D-Visa, was designed for anyone looking to pursue self-employed activities in Belgium. Any third-country (non-EU nationals) wishing to work as a digital nomad self-employed individual in Belgium, must have a professional card.
Self-employment activities include:
Freelancing or independent businesses.
Working or offering services outside the scope of Belgium’s work permit for foreign employees.
Economic activities performed as a sole proprietor, agent, partner, or managing partner of an association or company.
Self-employed individuals with a company abroad.
Keep in mind that with this last activity, as a self-employed individual with a company abroad, you must set up at least a Belgian branch or sub-branch officer in order to obtain the professional card.
The initial freelancer visa is granted for 2 years, which can be extended to 5 years after the probation period.
Who Can Apply for the Professional Card for Belgium
Any third-world nationals (non-EU citizens) are required to apply for a professional card for Belgium if they wish to live and work as self-employed digital nomads.
As a general rule, they must apply for a D-visa, also known as the national long-stay visa, at their local Belgian embassy or consulate.
There are a few exemptions from requiring a Professional Card for Belgium. For example, nationals of the European Economic Area (European Union, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein) and Switzerland do not need a professional card work permit. To learn more about the Professional Card exemptions, check out this website.
If You Are a United States Citizen
If you’re a US citizen, then you’ll need to apply for a D-Visa or Professional Card in order to work remotely for your digital nomad job in Belgium.
If You Are a US Green Card Holder
If you’re a US green card holder who is also a non-EU citizen, then you’ll need to apply for a Professional Card in order to work as a self-employed individual in Belgium.
If You Are an EU Citizen
Nationals of the European Economic Area (European Union, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein) and Switzerland do not need a professional card work permit in order to work as self-employed in Belgium.
If You Are a Citizen of Canada
Canadian citizens also need to apply for the Professional Card in Belgium if they wish to work as freelancers in the country.
If You Are a Citizen of Australia or New Zealand
Australian and New Zealand citizens are also required to obtain a Professional Card in order to work as self-employed or freelancers in Belgium.
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Need help applying?
Massimo Maesen
Belgium Freelance Visa Requirements
In order to apply for the Freelance Visa or Professional Card in Belgium, you’ll need the following:
Documentary evidence related to your professional activity
Proof of payment of the administrative fee for the professional card application
The completed and signed visa application form
Your international passport
A certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or offenses under common law
A standard medical certificate
Additionally, you must also have the right of residence. If you do not have the right of residence, you must apply for it at the consular or diplomatic representation at the same time as you apply for your professional card.
Full Health Insurance
As a general rule, any person wishing to stay in Belgium for more than 90 days must present a medical certificate attesting that they are not infected with one of the diseases that may endanger public health. Learn more about it here.
Additionally, you should also get full health insurance that will cover your stay. With Citizen Remote, you can sign up for full health insurance, perfect for all digital nomads.
Clean Criminal Record
The Professional Card application also requires that you provide a clean criminal record. You must show a certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or offenses under common law.
Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency
There are no minimum income requirements for the Professional Card. However, it is likely you’ll be required to show you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay. Proof of financial self-sufficiency is not in the list of documentation you’re required for your application, but at the embassy or consular branch they might ask you to show bank statements and other proof that you’re financially self-sufficient.
Proof Of Accommodation
Proof of accommodation is also not required for the Profesional Card. But it is important that you book your Belgium rent accommodations ahead of time.
See also: How to Find Digital Nomad Accommodation
How to Apply for the Belgium D-Visa and Professional Card – Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Acquire All The Necessary Documents
Before starting the application process, it is important that you gather all the necessary documents you’ll need. Having this ahead of time will help you avoid any delays or mistakes during the application process.
Here’s a list of all the documents you’ll need:
Documentary evidence related to your professional activity
Proof of payment of the administrative fee for the professional card application
The completed and signed visa application form
Your international passport
A certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or offenses under common law
A standard medical certificate
Step 2 – Apply for D-Visa
Once you have all the necessary documents, you’ll need to apply for an authorization to exercise a self-employed activity at the Belgian diplomatic or consular post in your place of residence.
You’ll submit all your documents, and the diplomatic and consular post will send your application to the department of economic migration of the region where you intend to operate.
The authorities will also take your fingerprints and a digital photo.
Step 3 – Check the Status Of Your Visa
Once your application has been submitted, you’ll be given a reference number. Afterward, you can use this reference number and the location of the diplomatic or consular post to check the status of your application.
You can check the status of your visa application online through the official portal.
Step 4 – Wait For Your Visa
The Belgian consular or diplomatic post where you submitted your application will get in touch with you as soon as your visa is ready. Keep in mind that the authorization process might take up to 120 days, though it depends on each country.
Step 5 – Arrive In Belgium
Once you’ve traveled to Belgium and entered with your D-Visa, you need to register at the municipality of your place of residence within 8 working days.
Afterward, you’ll need to register at the enterprise counter mentioned on your application form in order to receive your Professional Card.
Need help applying?
Massimo Maesen
Timeline for Applying for the Belgium Visa
Unfortunately, the application process isn’t the fastest. After you’ve successfully submitted your application, you’ll have to wait to receive a confirmation of your visa. You will receive a final decision within 120 days.
How Much Does Apply for a D-Visa for Belgium Cost?
The application fee for the D-Visa is €140 EUR, which you pay at the diplomatic or consular post upon submitting your application.
Once in Belgium, when you register at the enterprise counter, you’ll need to pay a fee of €90 EUR to receive your Professional Card.
Belgium Professional Card and D-Visa Denial
Your D-Visa might be denied for different reasons. If this happens, the consular or diplomatic post where you applied will explain why yours was denied.
You may reapply after two years, starting on the date of submission of your previous application.
You might also be able to reapply immediately if:
the refusal resulted from a decision of inadmissibility,
you can claim new evidence, or
your application is related to a different professional activity.
You can also submit an appeal if your application is rejected. You’ll need to submit an appeal against this decision to the Minister of Employment of the Brussels Capital Region. You’ll need to write a letter, sign it, and send it by registered mail within the thirty days following the rejection notification. Your letter must specify the motivation for the application, and it must be written in French or Dutch.
Living in Belgium as a Digital Nomad
Every digital nomad is looking for new places that offer good connectivity and unique experiences. Belgium should definitely be your next option. It has a lot to offer to all visitors. This European country is the perfect mix of old-world charm and cutting-edge modernity.
Capital Brussels
Form of Government Parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarch
Population 11.59 million
Climate Temperate maritime climate
Language Dutch, French, and German
Currency Euro (€)
1 people in Belgium!
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Attractions and Best Places to Visit
The Canals of Bruges
Bruges started out on the banks of the river Reie. As the river grew, so did the city and the multiple waterways connecting it to the Zwin estuary and the North Sea. Now these canals showcase the beautiful history of Bruges. You can take sightseeing boat rides, or just walk alongside them.
La Grand Place
Also known as De Grote Markt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, named so or its outstanding representation of late 17th-century architecture. La Grand Place in Brussels is rimmed by finely preserved guild halls and other grand buildings that showcase Belgium’s vernacular architecture at its best.
Ghent’s Gravensteen and Old Town
Gravensteen is one of Europe’s best-surviving examples of a moated fortress. It is a hugely impressive fort that was once the grand home of the Counts of Flanders. They took their inspiration for castle-building from the bulky castles the Crusaders built in Syria. It is extremely well-preserved and worth the visit.
Meuse Valley
Located in the south of Brussels, Meuse Valley is one of the best places to get a real feel for Belgium’s rural heartland. It offers plenty of scenic river trip opportunities, with dense forest countryside, and even hilltop craggy castle and fortress ruins. Additionally, Meuse Valley is home to plenty of hiking and cycling trails that you can take full advantage of during your visit.
Digital Nomad Hotspots
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Burges
City in Belgium
The city of Burges is tech-focused. It has become a meeting point for people from all over the world. It also has the best banking services in the country, which is a huge plus for remote workers and expats. Burges is a beautiful city, packed with medieval buildings, beautiful canals, and plenty of bobbled alleyways that lead into town squares. The public transport of Burges is well-connected and efficient, so you won’t have a problem moving around the city.
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Brussels
City in Belgium
As the capital city of Belgium, it is a great destination for digital nomads and remote workers. Brussels is located between several European countries such as France, Netherlands, and Germany. Many expats and remote workers take advantage of its locations to move around Europe. The city has plenty of English speakers and like-minded people.
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Antwerp
City in Belgium
The city of Antwerp is ideal for solo travelers and digital nomads. It is known as the world’s diamond capital, and it offers a lively and creative lifestyle. It has a multicultural environment, being home of people from all over the world. Antwerp has good public transportation within the inner city, and you’ll find plenty of cute cafés to work from.
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Ghent
City in Belgium
Ghent is known as the university city. It is a romantic city, with stunning university campuses, waterways, and medical buildings. The population is young, mostly students, which means there are plenty of cafés, co-working spaces, libraries, and other amenities that are perfect for remote workers. Plus, the nightlife is exciting, and the locals are very welcoming and friendly.
Benefits Of Working In Belgium as a Digital Nomad
Belgium is a safe and welcoming destination for all types of travelers. Its cities offer a sense of security that allows you to visit and explore everything they have to offer. Plus, the country boasts a low crime rate, although it is always wise to exercise caution in crowded areas and be aware of your belongings to prevent petty theft.
The country also has a great healthcare system. The Belgian healthcare system is renowned for its quality. All visitors have access to excellent medical care in case of emergencies.
Belgium is also well-connected. It offers an efficient public transportation, which includes well-connected trains and buses.
Cost of Living
The official currency of Belgium is the Euro. €1 EUR = $1.07 USD
The average salary in Belgium is €3,886.000 EUR ($4172.20 USD) approximately.
Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay per month in Burges:
One-bedroom apartment €670 EUR ($719 USD)
Three-bedroom apartment €990 EUR ($1,062 USD)
Monthly electricity, water, and related bills €156 EUR ($167 USD)
Meal at a simple restaurant €18 EUR ($19 USD)
Meal for two at a restaurant €80 EUR ($85 USD)
Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay per month for Brussels apartments:
One-bedroom apartment €1,006 EUR ($1,081 USD)
Three-bedroom apartment €1,783 EUR ($1,914 USD)
Monthly electricity, water, and related bills €224 EUR ($240 USD)
Meal at a simple restaurant €18 EUR ($19 USD)
Meal for two at a restaurant €80 EUR ($85 USD)
Digital Nomad Essentials
Internet (speed) 30Mbit/s – 1Gbit/s
Time Zone (GMT+1)
Socket Type type E
Calling Code +32
How to get a phone (SIM card)
Did you know you can purchase an eSim card with our digital nomad app?
Our all-in-one app has everything you need. It has a huge range of regional and global provider options that cover all countries, including Belgium! Plus, the prices are accessible, and the purchase process is easy.
Coworking Spaces
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Brussels
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Brussels
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Brussels
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Burges
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Burges
Ready To Go To Belgium?
Belgium has a lot to offer to the multiple remote workers and digital nomads it attracts yearly. From waffles and chocolate, to medieval architecture, and stunning landscapes. Belgium has something for everyone! Do not hesitate to make this wonderful country your next destination.
Need help applying?
Massimo Maesen
FAQs About Belgium Digital Nomad Visa
Does Belgium Have a Digital Nomad Visa?
No, Belgium does not have a digital nomad visa. However, they have a D-Visa and Professional Card for freelancers and self-employed individuals that works perfectly for remote workers and digital nomads!
How Much Money Do You Need per Month in Belgium?
You should aim to have a budget of around €3,886.00 EUR ($4172.20 USD) approximately.
Is There a Digital Nomad Community in Belgium?
Yes! Belgium is very popular with digital nomads, remote workers, and expats. You’ll find plenty of spaces where digital nomads and other like-minded people get together and share experiences.
What Belgium Neighboring Countries Issue Visas for Digital Nomads?
Germany
Switzerland
The Netherlands
France
Austria
DenmarkAuthor
Nadia Dardón is a freelance writer from Guatemala. In early 2022 she embarked as a digital nomad, traveling through Europe, focusing mostly on the literary history of each country. She has worked fully remotely for the past four years as a reader, writer, and content creator with experience creating pieces for different industries. She also has a personal blog where she writes about her cultural and literary travels.
