Belgium is a popular destination for international students seeking higher education. The country has a rich culture, diverse population, and high-quality academic institutions. Many students who come to Belgium for their studies often wonder if they can stay in the country permanently. This article will explore the process of obtaining permanent residency in Belgium as an international student.
Understanding Permanent Residency
Permanent residency is a status granted to foreign nationals that allows them to reside and work in a country indefinitely. It is often a first step towards obtaining citizenship. In Belgium, permanent residency is known as “settled status” or “indefinite leave to remain.”
To obtain settled status in Belgium, one must meet specific requirements. These include:
- Having lived in Belgium legally for at least five years
- Being able to demonstrate sufficient income and resources to support oneself
- Not having a criminal record
- Passing a language test (Dutch, French, or German)
If these requirements are met, an individual can apply for settled status through their local municipality.
Can Students Obtain Permanent Residency?
As an international student, it is possible to obtain permanent residency in Belgium after completing your studies. However, this process may take several years and requires meeting certain criteria.
Firstly, you must have completed a degree program at a recognized academic institution in Belgium. Additionally, you must have held a valid student visa for the duration of your studies and have not violated any Belgian laws.
Once you have completed your studies, you may apply for a “professional card” which allows you to work as a self-employed individual in Belgium. This card is necessary if you wish to start your own business or work as a freelancer.
After holding a professional card for at least five consecutive years, you may apply for settled status in Belgium. During this time, you must meet the same criteria as other applicants for settled status, including passing a language test and having sufficient income to support yourself.
Benefits of Permanent Residency in Belgium
Obtaining settled status in Belgium has several benefits for international students. Firstly, it allows you to stay in the country indefinitely, giving you stability and security. You can work, study, and live in Belgium without restrictions.
Additionally, settled status is a step towards obtaining Belgian citizenship. After holding settled status for at least five years, you may qualify for naturalization as a Belgian citizen. This would give you all the rights and privileges of a Belgian citizen, including the ability to vote and access public services.
Can international students get citizenship in Belgium?
Yes, it is possible for international students to obtain citizenship in Belgium, but it can be a lengthy and complex process.
First, the student must obtain a long-term residence permit and stay in Belgium for at least five years. During this time, they must also fulfill certain requirements such as demonstrating knowledge of one of the three official languages of Belgium (Dutch, French or German), passing a citizenship test, and proving that they are financially stable and have not had any criminal convictions.
After fulfilling these conditions, the student can apply for Belgian citizenship through naturalization. The application will be reviewed by the relevant authorities, and if approved, the student will be granted citizenship and receive a Belgian passport.
It’s important to note that the process for obtaining Belgian citizenship can vary depending on individual circumstances, and it’s recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or the Belgian embassy for more specific information.
Conclusion
Obtaining permanent residency in Belgium as an international student is possible but requires time and effort. You must meet specific criteria and hold a valid visa throughout your studies. After completing your degree program, you may apply for a professional card which can lead to settled status after holding it for five years. Settled status provides stability and security, allowing you to live and work in Belgium without restrictions. It is also a step towards obtaining Belgian citizenship, which comes with many benefit.
