Smooth travel to Belgium and the Netherlands: Visa tips & tricks!
Make Belgium and the Netherlands your next destination with the right visa in hand. Explore the iconic tulip fields, cruise through Amsterdam’s scenic canals, or stroll through the historic streets of Bruges. Don’t forget to enjoy some authentic Belgian chocolate along the way.
You can start your visa application today and get ready for your journey!
Can’t wait to visit? VisaThailand.com is here to help.
They offer expert assistance and guidance for the whole process of acquiring a Schengen visa.
While they take care of the paperwork, you can start planning your trip!
How to get a visa for Belgium and the Netherlands?
Documents from the Thai applicant:
- Visa application form – You must complete the specific Schengen visa application form online for Belgium or the Netherlands.
- Passport – The applicant must present a valid Thai passport, which should remain valid for at least six months after the intended stay.
- Passport photos – Provide two recent passport photos that meet Schengen visa photo requirements.
- Proof of ties to Thailand – Documents such as employer letters, study certificates, rental contracts, or property deeds can demonstrate the applicant’s strong ties to Thailand and their intention to return after the visit.
- Proof of employment or student status – Submit an original employment letter (issued within the last month) or company registration, along with an original student certificate if applicable.
- Financial proof – Provide an original personal bank statement covering the last six months, along with an original bank certificate in English, stamped by the bank if possible (issued within the last month, personal savings accounts only).
- Travel insurance – A travel insurance certificate covering medical and emergency expenses for the entire duration of the stay is required.
- Flight tickets – Provide a copy of your round-trip flight tickets or proof of flight booking.
- Itinerary – Present a detailed travel itinerary for your stay in Belgium or the Netherlands, including dates and planned destinations.
Documents Required from the Sponsor:
- Sponsor’s official commitment
○ Belgium: Annex 3BIS – Formal Obligation Letter, stamped by the municipality.
○ Netherlands: Proof of Sponsorship and/or Private Accommodation Form, notarised by the municipality. - Copy of passport – Include copies of passport pages showing entry and exit stamps from Thailand.
- Proof of address – A recent utility bill, rental agreement, or residence certificate.
- Proof of financial resources – Demonstrate the financial ability to support the applicant during their stay through documents such as bank statements for the last six months, pay slips, or employment contracts.
- Letter of invitation – A signed letter explaining the sponsor’s relationship with the applicant, details of planned activities during the visit, and which expenses will be covered.
- Proof of relationship with the applicant – Submit supporting documents such as a marriage certificate, photos together, or any other evidence of the relationship.
Note: This list is for reference and may vary depending on specific requests from the embassy. they may ask for more documents during the process.
Different types of visas
Visa for a short stay (90 days or less)
This is a Schengen visa also called type-C visa. With this visa, you will be able to travel to any European country that is part of the Schengen agreement for a maximum of 90 days. You can apply for this visa regarding your studies, tourism, visits, work, etc.
Visa for long stay (More than 90 days and less than 1 year)
This is also called a national or type-D visa. This visa allows you to stay in Belgium or the Netherlands for more than 90 days but less than one year. Once your visa expires, you can try to apply for a residence permit at the relevant prefecture to extend your stay.
You can apply for this visa for purposes such as studies, a paid internship, work, or a family or private stay.
Where to apply for a Schengen visa?
Belgium
For Belgium, the Schengen visa is processed in Bangkok through TLS Contact, a visa application centre that acts as an intermediary. They are responsible for collecting your biometric data and the documents needed for the visa application. It guarantees a smooth and efficient visa application process.
Netherlands
The application process for the Netherlands happens in Bangkok through VFS Global, a VAC that mediates between you and the Dutch embassy. VFS Global facilitates the collection of biometric information and required documents.
What to do if the visa is refused?
In case your application has been refused, VisaThailand will do their best to explain the reason to you and they could redo a new folder at your will if they think that there are chances. they fully understand the frustration that comes with visas better than anyone, and that is why they are committed to helping you.
When is the best time to apply?
When applying for a Schengen visa it is crucial to take into account the different processing times. To make sure that you receive your visa on time they recommend submitting your application at least 45 days before your planned departure date.
You can submit a visa application up to six months before departure for a short stay and up to three months before departure for a long stay. The earlier you apply, the more time you’ll have for your trip.
How long does it take to acquire your visa?
Generally, visa applications for Belgium and the Netherlands are processed within 15 days. In some cases, it might take longer. This can be caused by different variations like the time of the year, the workload of the Belgian/Dutch embassy in Bangkok and the complexity of the application itself.
Once processing is complete, your passport with or without the visa will be returned to the visa application center. If you take their delivery option, they will send it to your registered address by post.
Information regarding biometric data
Biometric data collection is now a required step in the visa process. Including photographs and fingerprints, which are systematically linked to your visa application. However, this requirement does not apply to children under 12 who apply through TLS Contact in Belgium, or VFS Global in the Netherlands.
The collection of biometric data serves to simplify your identification process and provide additional security measures. For example, impersonation of identity or unauthorised use of your passport.
It is important to note that refusing the collection of biometric data will result in not getting a visa. However, it is your right to access and correct recorded biometric data to ensure accuracy and preserve your data privacy.
Contact VisaThailand.com
For any questions regarding the visa application or if you would like to start the process, be sure to contact VisaThailand.com. They are here to make this process as easy and efficient as possible so that you will be able to enjoy everything that Belgium and the Netherlands have to offer!
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