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Long-stay visas (Type D)

Belgian Researcher (hosting agreement)

The single permit for non-EU researchers carrying out a research project with a recognised Belgian research organisation under a hosting agreement.

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Under review — check current rules

The minimum remuneration for researchers is tied to the regional guaranteed minimum income and is updated periodically; verify the current figure with the competent region.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Belgium government website before you apply.
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Issued by
Competent region (work) + federal Immigration Office (residence)
Who applies
The recognised Belgian research organisation
Core requirement
Hosting agreement with a BELSPO-recognised research organisation
Maximum validity
Up to 3 years, aligned to the hosting agreement, renewable
Mobility
Short-term and long-term intra-EU mobility available

Who it's for

  • Non-EU researchers with a hosting agreement at a recognised Belgian research organisation
  • Doctoral candidates whose activity is primarily research rather than study
  • Researchers admitted in another EU member state moving part of a project to Belgium

Requirements

  • A hosting agreement with a research organisation recognised in Belgium
  • The research organisation appears on the BELSPO recognised list
  • Remuneration meeting the applicable regional minimum income (GMAMI)
  • Valid passport or travel document
  • Health insurance and the standard single-permit supporting documents

What you can do

  • Carry out the research project for the duration of the hosting agreement
  • Benefit from short-term and long-term mobility to conduct research in the EU
  • Bring family through family reunification
  • Renew the permit and build towards long-term residence

How to apply

The recognised research organisation lodges the single-permit application with the competent regional government; the region rules on the work component and the Immigration Office on the residence component. The permit's validity is set to match the hosting agreement, which should be broad enough to allow some flexibility.

A researcher abroad then collects a type D visa and registers at the municipality after arrival. Renewal is best requested about two months before expiry but can be lodged up to the last day of validity.

Documents

  • Signed hosting agreement with a recognised research organisation
  • Copy of valid passport
  • Proof that remuneration meets the regional minimum
  • Proof of health insurance
  • Criminal-record extract and medical certificate where required

Frequently asked questions

  • It is a formal agreement between you and a research organisation recognised in Belgium (listed by BELSPO) covering your research project. It is the central document for the researcher route and the permit's duration is aligned to it.

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.

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