Facts about Belgium
Belgium is a prime tourist site due to its historical landmark, modern architecture and rural idylls. Also, the country is visited by a lot of business tourists. The country is also famous for its long traditions in arts, fashion, and its cuisine. Tourists in the country can be guaranteed of a very good time as there are a lot of things to see all over the city and activities like hiking, biking and camping to engage in. While in the country, there are various festivals to attend at different periods throughout the year. Mussels, Balletjes, Stoemp, Waffles, and other special Belgian delicacies will leave you asking for more, be sure to try these cuisines out.
Tourism in Belgium has been on the up since 2009. The number of visitors who visited Belgium in 2009 was just over 12 million which increased to 16 million in 2017. It has been estimated that these numbers will continue to increase in the years to come. The tourism industry generates about 2.8% of Belgium’s gross domestic product and employs about 3.3% of the working population.
Foreigners are not allowed to enter or leave the country with more €10,000 or its equivalent in any currency. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery and watches as this may attract petty criminals to you.
Just like every other country in the world, South Africans are advised to exercise extreme caution. Theft from vehicles is common, ensure you drive with your windows up and doors locked. Be alert to distraction in crowds, petty thieves bump into or shove their targets.
Basic Travel Requirements for South Africans visiting Belgium
- Valid South African passport with a validity of 3 months beyond the planned date of departure from the country. The passport should have two blank pages for necessary stamps.
- Completed visa application form which should carry the necessary signatures and stamp.
- One recent passport-size photograph taken with a white background. The passport should follow the photo specification for a visa application.
- Bank statement which is not older than 3 months from the period of entry to the country. This is proof that you can cater for yourself during the period of your stay in the country.
- Valid travel insurance.
- Proof of accommodation for the duration of your stay in the country.
- Return or onward ticket.
- Copy of travel itinerary.
Types of Belgium Visa
| Types of Visa |
Processing Time |
Duration of Stay |
| Tourist Visa |
10 working days |
180 days |
| Business Visa |
10 working days |
180 days |
| Transit Visa |
10 working days |
5 days |
| Work Visa |
10 working days |
180 days |
| Student Visa |
10 working days |
More than 180 days |
| Official Visa |
10 working days |
180 days |
| Visa |
|
|
Places in Visas of Belgium Fees
| Visa Type |
Sub Type |
Visa Fees |
| Tourist Visa |
|
60.00 (EUR)
|
| Business Visa |
|
60.00 (EUR)
|
| Transit Visa |
|
60.00 (EUR)
|
| Work Visa |
|
99.00 (EUR)
|
| Student Visa |
|
99.00 (EUR)
|
| Official Visa |
|
60.00 (EUR)
|
| Visa |
|
Not available
|
