Belgium Schengen Visa for Zimbabwean citizens: Everything you need to know

If you're a Zimbabwean seeking to explore the beautiful European destination of Belgium, you’ll likely need a Belgium Schengen Visa. In this complete guide, we explain the Belgium Schengen Visa application process, empowering you to embark on a stress-free journey.

Discover the joy of borderless travel and enter Belgium and all other Schengen countries with this flexible travel document.

Let’s delve into the steps, requirements, and tips to secure your Belgium Schengen Visa from Zimbabwe. Once familiar with all requirements, apply instantly on our convenient online platform or download our user-friendly iVisa app!

Do Zimbabwean citizens need a Schengen visa for Belgium?

As a Zimbabwean citizen, securing a Schengen visa, also known as the Belgium Tourist Visa, is necessary before departing. The Schengen Zone, consisting of 27 European countries that have eliminated internal borders, is a territory with boundless opportunities for unrestricted travel.

Picture yourself strolling through the charming streets of Belgium one day, and exploring the treasures of France, the Netherlands, Spain, or Italy on the very same trip! Note that to be eligible for this visa, Belgium needs to be the country where you’ll spend most of your time or be the first destination on your itinerary.

Like adult travelers, Zimbabwean minors/children also need this Schengen visa to visit Belgium and the rest of the Schengen Zone. Additional documents may be required, such as a birth certificate.

Benefits of a Belgium Schengen Visa for Zimbabwean citizens

The Belgium Schengen Visa offers the opportunity to explore the entire region for:

• Tourism.

• Visiting family and friends.

• Business activities.

• Short-term studies or traineeships.

• Attending sporting and cultural events.

It's essential to remember that this visa does not grant permission to work or reside within the Schengen Zone. For inquiries regarding work visas or residency permits, refer to the Belgian government's official website.

Belgium Schengen Visa: Eligibility criteria for Zimbabwean citizens

If you're a Zimbabwean citizen planning to apply for a Belgian Schengen Visa, meeting the Belgium visa requirements is crucial. Here's what you need to consider:

1. Purpose of visit: Ensure you have a valid and legitimate reason for your trip to Belgium, be it tourism, business, or any other purpose allowed within the visa category you are applying for.

2. Intention to return: Provide evidence of strong ties to your home country, such as family, employment, property, or other commitments, to demonstrate your intention to leave Belgium and the Schengen Area before your visa expires.

3. Financial means: Show that you possess sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in Belgium. This can be supported by bank statements, employment proofs, or a sponsorship letter, depending on your individual circumstances.

4. Travel insurance: It's mandatory to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses across the entire Schengen Zone, with a minimum coverage of €30,000. The insurance should be valid for the entire duration of your stay.

Belgium Schengen Visa: Required documents for citizens from Zimbabwe

Applying for a Belgium Schengen Visa has never been smoother, all thanks to our efficient visa services. Begin your adventure with just your passport and a passport photo, and let us take care of the rest.

Before you head to your interview and biometric data appointment, ensure you have the following essential requirements gathered:

• Valid passport: Make sure your Zimbabwean passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your intended arrival date in Belgium and contains a minimum of two blank pages.

• Travel itinerary: Showcase a confirmed return flight ticket, along with hotel reservations or tour bookings, to demonstrate the purpose of your travel.

• Financial proof: Exhibit sufficient funds to cover your expenses throughout your trip across Belgium and other Schengen countries. A bank account statement reflecting your income and financial stability will be necessary.

• Travel insurance: Secure travel medical insurance with coverage of up to €30,000 for emergencies across the entire Schengen Zone.

• Passport photos: Bring along two passport-sized photos. In case you don't have any, our convenient digital photo service allows you to snap them from the comfort of your home.

• Visa application form: Complete the official application form, print it, and affix your signature. During the online application process on our platform or app, you will receive this form.

• Additional documents: Depending on your unique circumstances, be prepared to provide supplementary documents that validate your professional and social status.

With these requirements in order, you'll be well-equipped to embark on an exciting and seamless journey to Belgium! Your valid visa will be placed directly in your passport.

How long can Zimbabwean citizens stay in Belgium with the Schengen visa?

With this Belgium Tourist Visa, you can stay in the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days per entry within a 180-day period. It allows you to traverse effortlessly between any Schengen country, provided your cumulative stay remains within the 90-day limit.

Our visa services offer you the application for a multiple-entry visa, offering enhanced convenience and flexibility for your travels. Nevertheless, the final decision lies in the hands of the Belgian authorities, who will determine whether you are granted a multiple-entry, double-entry, or single-entry visa.

Multiple-entry visas typically span from 180 days to 5 years, affording you the utmost freedom with a maximum stay of 90 days per entry.

Extending a Belgium Schengen Visa

If you have already entered Belgium and your visa is about to expire, you must leave the Schengen Area before the validity is up. Only in exceptional cases can an extension of your Schengen visa be granted.

How to apply for the Belgium Schengen Visa in Zimbabwe

Getting your Belgium visa swiftly and seamlessly from Zimbabwe is a breeze with these simple steps:

Step 1: Begin by providing your personal information and travel details through our user-friendly online platform or app. Ensure all information is accurate and current.

Step 2: Conveniently pay our iVisa service fee using your debit card, credit card, or PayPal. It's important to note that the government fee will be paid directly at the Belgium Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Application Center (VAC) during your appointment in Zimbabwe.

Step 3: Follow our straightforward instructions to complete the remaining sections of the simplified application form. Upload a scanned copy of your passport and a suitable photo per our guidelines. Once all details are ready, submit your application for expert review.

Rest assured, you'll receive a comprehensive step-by-step manual guiding you through the process of filling in all the necessary information on the application form and preparing for your interview.

Moreover, we will handle the arrangements for your mandatory visa interview, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey to Belgium!

Costs and processing time for the Belgium Schengen Visa in Zimbabwe

For Zimbabwean travelers eager to explore Belgium, the visa fees are divided into two essential components:

1. iVisa processing: Our experts provide full support and a step-by-step manual to assist you throughout the application process and prepare you for your interview. The iVisa standard processing fee is US$149.99, excluding the government fee. The processing time may take up to 30 days.

2. Government processing: The Belgian government oversees this part of the visa application, and the decision-making process can take up to 45 days or even longer, depending on the circumstances. For a smooth experience, it is advisable to apply for your Schengen visa at least two months before your planned trip.

The government visa fee is approximately US$85, but it may vary based on your nationality. This fee is to be paid during your visa appointment. Notably, children aged between 6 and 12 pay half the government fee, and children under 6 are exempt from any visa fee.

There are other exemptions where you won't be required to pay the government fee:

• If you are a child or spouse of an EU citizen.

• If you are a student, pupil, or postgraduate student traveling for educational or vocational purposes, accompanied by teachers.

• If you are under 25 years old and representing a non-profit organization, participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural, or educational events hosted by non-profit organizations.

Tips for a successful Belgium Schengen Visa application in Zimbabwe

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free process, here are some unique and specific tips crafted just for Zimbabwean applicants:

• Plan ahead: As the Belgian government may take up to 45 days or more to process your visa, it's wise to apply at least two months before your intended travel dates. This allows ample time for any unforeseen delays and ensures you’ll have your visa in hand before setting off on your Belgian adventure.

• Carefully check your application: Leverage the iVisa standard processing to your advantage! Take advantage of our simplified form for accuracy. The iVisa service fee of US$149.99 - separate from the government fee - opens doors to expert support and a detailed manual to ace your application.

• Prepare for the interview: Study the step-by-step manual provided by us to ace the visa interview. Gather all necessary documents, such as passport scans, photos, and financial proofs, showcasing your commitment to returning home.

• Clarify the purpose and duration of your stay: Be clear and concise about your purpose for visiting Belgium. Whether for tourism, business, or any other valid reason, ensure your intentions align with the Schengen visa regulations. Remember, you can stay up to 90 days per entry within 180 days, so plan your visit accordingly.

Common reasons for Belgium Schengen Visa refusals in Zimbabwe

Understanding the common reasons for visa refusals can safeguard you from potential disappointments.

Most refusals have to do with insufficient proof of ties to Zimbabwe. Ensure you provide compelling evidence of ties to your home country, such as stable employment, property ownership, or family commitments. Not delivering on this may lead the visa officer to believe you intend to stay and reside illegally in the Schengen Zone.

Additionally, Belgium demands assurance that you can sustain yourself financially during your stay. There is no fixed amount, but you must be able to showcase your financial capability through bank statements or other relevant documents to meet this requirement.

Past visa violations or instances of overstaying in any Schengen country could also raise red flags and negatively impact your current application. Address any past issues honestly and transparently in your application.

Thoroughly prepare, be honest, and present a well-documented case demonstrating your genuine intentions and eligibility. By doing so, you increase your chances of visa approval.

More information about the Belgium Schengen Visa

For any questions or additional support, our team of experts is ready to assist you at every stage! You can reach our customer service team through online chat or by email at [email protected] anytime during the process. Rest assured, we're here to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.