CITIZENSHIP OF BELGIUM
Belgium is a small country located in the western part of Europe. The country plays one of the most important roles in the political and economic life of the European Union, as Belgium is one of the first in the world by the number of representative offices of various international organizations. Access to the sea, favorable geographical location between France and the Netherlands, contributes to the development of the economy and the influx of immigrants from different parts of the world.
Until 2013, the procedure for obtaining Belgian citizenship was one of the most accessible in the EU. Many foreigners were issued a passport under the naturalization program after 3 years of permanent residence in the country without any special requirements. Now one of the conditions of this method is significant achievements that provide interest for the country, for example, in the field of science, sports or culture.
Nevertheless, today there are still a large number of foreigners who wish to obtain a Belgian passport. This document opens the way to obtaining prestigious education in Belgian universities, unhindered employment in Belgian companies, doing business in one of the most developed countries in Europe, social security and quality medical care, as well as provides many other advantages.
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How to obtain Belgian citizenship
In 2024, there is quite a large list of options for foreigners to obtain Belgian citizenship. In total, there are about 12 ways. In each case, the requirements for the candidate can differ significantly. The most common among immigrants is the procedure for obtaining a Belgian passport by declaration. Here the main condition is legal residence in Belgium for at least 5-10 years.
In addition, for the last 5 years the foreigner should not leave the Belgian territory for a continuous period of more than 6 months, and the total period of stay outside Belgium can not exceed one year. It is also necessary to confirm the knowledge of one of the official languages – Dutch, French, German and demonstrate sufficient adaptation in the country in economic and social terms. For example, official employment in Belgium for the last 5 years will be enough.
Application for Belgian citizenship is made through the city hall at the place of residence. In each specific case, local officials will give comprehensive information about the basic requirements and provide practical assistance. Documents are provided both in original and duly certified copies with translation into the local language. As a rule, the application processing time is about 4 months, but very often the process takes longer, on average 5-8 months. The cost of processing is 150 euros.
Documents for Belgian citizenship by declaration
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Birth certificate and a copy of the foreign passport.
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Documents confirming permanent residence in Belgium for at least 5 years (extracts of residential addresses).
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Proof of proficiency in one of the official languages at a level not lower than A2 of the pan-European classification.
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Proof of socio-economic integration. For example, the presence of a permanent job, business, long-term education, payment of taxes and social contributions in Belgium.
Ways of obtaining Belgian citizenship
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By declaration on the basis of legal residence in Belgium for more than 5 years (see above).
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Naturalization. Issued to foreigners permanently residing on Belgian territory who have achieved outstanding results in scientific, sporting or cultural fields.
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By marriage. The main condition is a marriage relationship with a Belgian citizen for at least 3 years. In addition, permanent residence in Belgium for more than 5 years, proficiency in one of the local languages and sufficient social integration will be required.
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By birth. The following categories are provided for:
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Children born in Belgium, including adopted children if one of the parents is Belgian;
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Children born abroad if one of the parents holds a Belgian passport. The application must be submitted before the child reaches the age of 5. This rule also applies to adopted children;
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Children born and permanently residing in Belgium up to the age of 12, if the parents are foreigners who have been legally present on Belgian territory for at least 10 years; Adult children (after the age of 18) born in Belgium and permanently resident in Belgium;
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Children born in Belgium whose nationality has not been established;
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Parents of a minor Belgian citizen, on condition of 5 years' residence in the country, knowledge of the official language and sufficient integration into Belgian society.
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By length of stay. It is granted to foreigners who have been legally residing in Belgium on a permanent basis for at least 10 years and who actively participate in local society. Knowledge of the local language is also a prerequisite.
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On disability or retirement age. Belgian citizenship is granted to persons after 5 years of continuous residence in the country, in case of disability or retirement.
Birth certificate and a copy of the foreign passport.
Documents confirming permanent residence in Belgium for at least 5 years (extracts of residential addresses).
Proof of proficiency in one of the official languages at a level not lower than A2 of the pan-European classification.
Proof of socio-economic integration. For example, the presence of a permanent job, business, long-term education, payment of taxes and social contributions in Belgium.
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By declaration on the basis of legal residence in Belgium for more than 5 years (see above).
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Naturalization. Issued to foreigners permanently residing on Belgian territory who have achieved outstanding results in scientific, sporting or cultural fields.
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By marriage. The main condition is a marriage relationship with a Belgian citizen for at least 3 years. In addition, permanent residence in Belgium for more than 5 years, proficiency in one of the local languages and sufficient social integration will be required.
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By birth. The following categories are provided for:
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Children born in Belgium, including adopted children if one of the parents is Belgian;
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Children born abroad if one of the parents holds a Belgian passport. The application must be submitted before the child reaches the age of 5. This rule also applies to adopted children;
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Children born and permanently residing in Belgium up to the age of 12, if the parents are foreigners who have been legally present on Belgian territory for at least 10 years; Adult children (after the age of 18) born in Belgium and permanently resident in Belgium;
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Children born in Belgium whose nationality has not been established;
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Parents of a minor Belgian citizen, on condition of 5 years' residence in the country, knowledge of the official language and sufficient integration into Belgian society.
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By length of stay. It is granted to foreigners who have been legally residing in Belgium on a permanent basis for at least 10 years and who actively participate in local society. Knowledge of the local language is also a prerequisite.
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On disability or retirement age. Belgian citizenship is granted to persons after 5 years of continuous residence in the country, in case of disability or retirement.
The list of documents, cost and additional requirements for foreigners depending on the situation can be adjusted. One of the significant advantages of Belgium is the possibility to have dual citizenship.
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