So, you’re dreaming of saying “I do” in Belgium—the land of chocolate, waffles, and fairytale cityscapes? Excellent choice! But before you start picking out a castle for your vows (because let’s be honest, Belgium has plenty), let’s talk about the one thing standing between you and your dream wedding: the Belgian wedding visa.
Now, I know what you’re thinking—“Ugh, paperwork!” But don’t worry! I’m here to walk you through the process with a mix of practical advice, humor, and a little insider wisdom. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Step 1: Do You Even Need a Visa?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s figure out whether you even need a wedding visa.
✅ If you’re from the EU, good news—you can skip the visa and head straight to the fun part (wedding planning).
✅ If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need a Type C Schengen Visa for a short stay (up to 90 days).
Now that we’ve settled that, let’s talk about what you need to make Belgium say, “Sure, come get married here!”
Step 2: Gather Your Documents (Yes, Bureaucracy is a Thing)
Belgium loves paperwork almost as much as it loves fries with mayonnaise. Here’s your ultimate checklist for the wedding visa application:
📌 Visa application form – Fill it out online via Visa on Web.
📌 Valid passport – Must be valid for at least three months after your planned stay.
📌 Recent passport photos – No selfies, please!
📌 Proof of relationship – This could be messages, photos, flight tickets—anything that shows you’re genuinely in love. (Yes, really.)
📌 Marriage Declaration Act (akte van aangifte van huwelijk) – Issued by the Belgian municipality where you’re getting married. You can check with your venue or town hall.
📌 Proof of accommodation – Hotel booking, rental agreement, or a letter from your Belgian fiancé(e) stating they’ll host you.
📌 Medical certificate – Because Belgium wants to make sure you’re fit to get married.
📌 Certificate of no criminal record – Because they don’t want international fugitives getting hitched in their castles.
📌 Proof of sufficient financial means – Show you can support yourself during your stay (bank statements, payslips, or a sponsor letter).
📌 Travel insurance – Minimum coverage of €30,000 (just in case).
Step 3: Submit Your Application & Ace the Interview
Once you’ve gathered your documents, book an appointment at the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country.
💡 Hot Tip: Submit your application at least three months before your wedding date to avoid last-minute stress.
At the embassy, you might be asked:
💬 “How did you meet your fiancé(e)?”
💬 “Why do you want to marry in Belgium?”
💬 “What are your wedding plans?”
Stay calm, be honest, and resist the urge to crack jokes about marrying for waffles.
Step 4: The Waiting Game (a.k.a. Checking Your Email 1000 Times a Day)
Visa processing times vary, but it typically takes 15 to 60 days. If everything goes smoothly, you’ll receive your visa, and you’ll be one step closer to walking down the aisle in Belgium!
🙌 Pro Tip: Use this waiting time to finalize wedding details—pick a photographer (hint, hint 😉), book your venue, and plan your post-wedding getaway.
Bonus: Where to Get Married in Belgium?
If you’re still deciding on your perfect Belgian wedding location, here are some stunning options:
🏰 Bruges – A storybook town with canals, cobblestone streets, and medieval charm. Perfect for a fairytale wedding! (Visit Bruges)
🏛 Brussels Town Hall – A grand, historic setting in the heart of Belgium’s capital. (Brussels Town Hall)
🌳 Château de la Hulpe – A romantic castle just outside Brussels, surrounded by lush gardens. (Château de la Hulpe)
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
🚨 Mistake #1: Not applying early enough
✅ Solution: Start your visa application at least three months in advance.
🚨 Mistake #2: Incomplete documents
✅ Solution: Triple-check your checklist before submitting your application.
🚨 Mistake #3: Assuming a tourist visa is enough
✅ Solution: If your plan is to get legally married in Belgium, you need the right visa!
FAQs (Because I Know You Have Questions!)
❓ Can I get married in Belgium on a tourist visa?
✅ No, you need the correct wedding visa (Type C).
❓ How long does it take to process a wedding visa for Belgium?
✅ Anywhere from 15 to 60 days, depending on your country and circumstances.
❓ What happens after I get married in Belgium?
✅ If you plan to stay, you’ll need to apply for family reunification or a residence permit.
Final Thoughts (and Why You Need an Epic Wedding Photographer in Belgium 📸)
Getting married in Belgium is an adventure, and trust me—you’ll want every magical moment captured perfectly. Whether it’s the romantic canals of Bruges, the grandeur of a historic town hall, or the beauty of a countryside château, your wedding deserves breathtaking photos.
🎥 See how other couples captured their Belgian love story in my wedding photography blog.
📸 Explore my tailored photography packages for destination weddings here.
📩 Ready to chat? Let’s make your wedding memories last forever—contact me here!
So, grab your documents, book your flights, and get ready for the Belgian wedding of your dreams. See you in Belgium! 🥂💍✨
