Moving from Brazil to study in Belgium is an exciting step for your future. This guide covers visas, university requirements, timelines, and how universities can find you first.
Understanding the Belgian student visa process
As a citizen of Brazil, you need a student visa and a residence permit to study in Belgium for more than 90 days. You start the process after a university accepts you into a full-time programme. You must apply through the official Belgian embassy or consulate in Brazil.
- Check the exact visa requirements on the official national immigration authority website.
- Submit your university admission letter along with your visa application.
- Allow plenty of time for document legalisation and translation.
Academic requirements from Brazilian schools
Belgian universities look closely at your previous education when you apply. If you apply for a bachelor degree, you need your Brazilian high school diploma. For a master degree, you need your university graduation certificate and academic transcripts.
- Your prior certificates usually need official translation into French, Dutch, or English.
- Many documents require an apostille stamp for use in Belgium.
- Check the university admissions page for specific course prerequisites.
Language proficiency and test scores
Belgium has different language regions, so programmes are taught in English, French, or Dutch. If you study in English, you must prove your language level with an accepted test score. Common accepted tests include IELTS or TOEFL.
- Check the minimum score required by your specific programme page.
- Native English speakers or students with previous degrees taught in English may receive an exemption.
Proof of funds and financial planning
Belgium requires proof that you can support yourself financially during your studies. You must show that you have enough funds to cover living costs, health insurance, and tuition fees. The exact monthly amount changes, so you must verify the current figure.
- Check the national immigration authority site for the exact required monthly living amount.
- You can use a blocked account via the university, a scholarship, or a sponsor.
Timeline and application steps
Planning ahead is essential because the entire process takes several months. You should start looking at programmes almost a year before the academic term begins. Admissions and visa processing have strict deadlines that you cannot miss.
- January to March: Research universities and prepare your language tests.
- April to June: Submit your university applications and wait for results.
- July to September: Apply for your visa and prepare for your move to Belgium.
Common reasons for visa refusal
Visa refusals are frustrating, but most happen because of incomplete paperwork. The embassy checks every detail of your financial and academic file. Double-check all documents before you submit your application.
- Insufficient proof of financial support is a frequent issue.
- Missing apostilles or incorrect document translations often cause delays.
- Incomplete enrolment forms or conditional acceptance letters that do not meet visa rules can lead to a refusal.
Common questions
Can I work while studying in Belgium with a Brazilian passport?
Yes, international students can work a limited number of hours per week during the academic year without a separate work permit.
Do I need to speak French or Dutch to live in Belgium?
Not always. Many master programmes and some bachelor programmes are taught entirely in English, and many people in Belgium speak English well.
Can Eduuro guarantee that I get a university admission or a visa?
No. Eduuro is not an agent and never applies for you, but helps admissions offices find your profile easily.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.