BELGIUM: Residence Administration Fee Increased, Extended to Renewals

March 3, 2017


Effective 1st March 2017, the Belgian federal government has increased the mandatory administrative fee for first-time residence permit and long-term D visa applications.

In addition, a new law allows municipalities to charge an administrative fee also for renewal, extension or replacement residence permit applications.

The fee for work permit holders has increased to 350 EUR (215 EUR previously) and for dependent family members to 200 EUR (160 EUR previously).

A reduced amount (60 EUR – unchanged) is to be paid by long-term residents.

Exemptions include nationals of the European Union (EU) and Switzerland, children under 18 years of age and refugees.

An Act, dated 18th December 2016, allows municipalities to receive a similar contribution for the renewal, extension or replacement of some residence permits.

This Act took effect on 12th February 2017. Its application depends on an implementing Royal Decree, which will confirm the maximal amount of the contribution (probably 50 EUR), and which will determine for what residence permits the contribution can be received (the contribution would in any event be due for the renewal, extension or replacement of a residence permit type A: this type of residence permit, valid for definite term, is held by work permit B holders and most of their family members).

In practice, the request to renew, extend or replace a Belgian residence permit must be submitted to the municipal authorities of the town where the foreign national resides. The new contribution, which will have to be paid on top of the administrative fee for the processing of new residence permits, is considered an equitable compensation for the administrative services provided by the municipalities.

Our advice

Applicants should ensure that the correct administrative fee is paid before submitting any relevant first-time or renewal residence application in Belgium.

If you require any additional advice regarding the above please contact a member of our team at [email protected].