How to obtain a residence permit in Belgium: the procedure for Ukrainians

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Valeria

Lawyer

Ukraine / Kyiv

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Publication date: 14.08.2024

Belgium is an attractive country for Ukrainians looking for new opportunities and better living conditions in the European Union. Obtaining a residence permit in this country opens the door to numerous benefits, including access to quality education, healthcare and the labor market. However, the process of obtaining a residence permit may seem complicated and confusing for many. In this article, we will look at the main steps and requirements for Ukrainians seeking to obtain a residence permit in Belgium.

Preparing the necessary documents

Before you start the process of obtaining a residence permit in Belgium, it is important to carefully prepare all the necessary documents. This will help to avoid delays and potential problems during the application process. Collecting and organizing documents can be a time-consuming process, so it is worth starting in advance. To ensure that your package of documents is correct and complete, it is recommended that you apply for a legal review of the documents. This will help you avoid mistakes and increase your chances of successfully obtaining the permit.

The main documents for submitting the application:

1. A valid foreign passport
2. Birth certificate (with translation into French, Dutch or German)
3. Documents confirming the purpose of stay in Belgium
4. Certificate of no criminal record (with apostille and translation)
5. Health insurance valid in Belgium

After collecting all the necessary documents, it is important to conduct a legal analysis of documents. This will help to identify potential problems and make sure that all documents meet the requirements of Belgian law.

Choosing the grounds for obtaining a residence permit

There are several grounds on which Ukrainians can obtain a residence permit in Belgium. Choosing the right grounds is critical for the successful completion of the procedure. To make the right choice, it is worth contacting an experienced lawyer for a legal analysis of the situation.

The main grounds for obtaining a residence permit are:

• Employment
• Studying
• Family reunification
• Investment in the Belgian economy
• Refugee status or a person in need of international protection

Each of these grounds has its own peculiarities and requirements. For example, to obtain a residence permit for the purpose of employment, you must have a job offer from a Belgian employer. To study, you need to be enrolled in a Belgian educational institution. A legal opinion of a lawyer will help you determine the most appropriate ground in your particular case.

Applying for a residence permit

The process of applying for a residence permit in Belgium may differ depending on the chosen ground and your current location. If you are already in Belgium, you can apply at your local commune (municipality). If you are outside Belgium, you should apply through the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country.

Before submitting an application, it is important to make sure that all documents are properly executed and translated into one of the official languages of Belgium (French, Dutch or German). Consulting a lawyer will help you avoid mistakes and increase the chances of a positive decision.

Interview and waiting for the decision

After submitting your application, you may be invited to an interview with a representative of the Belgian Immigration Service. This is an important stage of the process, during which you have the opportunity to explain in detail the reasons for your desire to obtain a residence permit in Belgium. Preparation for the interview is critical, and written consultation from an experienced lawyer may be helpful.

Key aspects of preparing for the interview:

1. Study of Belgian culture and legislation
2. Prepare clear answers to possible questions
3. Collecting additional documents that can confirm your story
4. Practice speaking French or Dutch (if possible)
5. Consultation with a lawyer to understand the legal aspects

After the interview, the waiting period for the decision begins. The application processing time can vary from several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of your case and the workload of the immigration service. During this period, it is important to be patient and avoid frequent inquiries about the status of your application unless it is absolutely necessary.

Obtaining a residence permit and further steps

In case of a positive decision, you will receive a residence permit in Belgium. This is an important document that gives you the right to stay in the country legally for a specified period of time. However, obtaining a residence permit is only the beginning of your life in Belgium. There are a number of important steps you need to take after that.

Registering at the place of residence

Obtaining a social security number

Opening a bank account

Obtaining health insurance

Learning the language of the country

Each of these steps has its own peculiarities and requirements. For example, to register at the place of residence, you may need to consult a lawyer to properly prepare all the necessary documents. A legal opinion can also be useful when dealing with issues related to employment or education in Belgium.