Long-stay visas (Type D)
Belgian EU Blue Card
For highly qualified non-EU professionals holding a recognised degree and earning a salary above the regional threshold.
Under review — check current rules
Important information
- Issued by
- Competent region (work) + federal Immigration Office (residence)
- Visa indication
- Type D visa marked B29 (highly qualified / EU Blue Card)
- Qualification
- Higher-education diploma from studies of at least 3 years
- ICT and management specialists may substitute 3 years of relevant experience gained in the last 7 years
- Contract length
- At least 6 months (fixed term) or indefinite
- Maximum validity
- Duration of contract, up to 3 years, renewable
Who it's for
- Highly qualified non-EU professionals with a Belgian job offer
- Holders of a recognised higher-education degree (3+ years of study)
- ICT and management specialists who can prove equivalent professional experience
Requirements
- Job offer / contract of at least 6 months or indefinite duration
- Recognised higher-education qualification, or qualifying professional experience for ICT/management roles
- Gross salary at or above the region's Blue Card threshold
- Valid passport or travel document
- Health insurance covering all risks in Belgium
- Criminal-record extract and medical certificate as required
What you can do
- Work in the highly qualified role for your Belgian employer
- Benefit from more favourable family reunification conditions
- Move more easily to other EU member states under Blue Card mobility rules
- Count qualifying periods towards EU long-term resident status
How to apply
Like other single permits, the employer files the application with the competent region through the one-stop counter, and the region and Immigration Office decide jointly. The salary stated in the contract must meet the current regional Blue Card threshold — files quoting an outdated figure can be refused.
On approval the worker abroad collects a type D visa (B29) at the Belgian consulate, then registers at the municipality within 8 days of arrival to receive the residence card.
Documents
- Employment contract of 6+ months or indefinite
- Recognised diploma (or proof of qualifying experience for ICT/management)
- Evidence the salary meets the regional threshold
- Copy of valid passport
- Proof of health insurance
- Criminal-record extract and medical certificate where required
Frequently asked questions
It targets highly qualified workers, requires a degree (or equivalent experience for ICT/management) and a higher salary, and in return gives better rights on EU mobility, family reunification and long-term residence. It shows the indication B29 rather than B34.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
Related Belgian visas
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