Traveling to Belgium with a UK travel document can raise many questions, especially when it comes to understanding visa requirements. If you are a holder of a UK-issued travel document, it is important to know what type of travel document you hold and whether you need a visa to enter Belgium. This article will provide a detailed guide on the different types of UK travel documents, visa requirements for holders of these documents, and the application process. We will also cover the duration of stay, additional requirements, and provide contact information for the Belgian Embassy or consulate in the UK for any further assistance.
Types of UK Travel Documents
Before diving into the visa requirements, it’s important to first understand the different types of UK travel documents. These documents are issued by the UK government to people who are not in possession of a standard UK passport, often due to their nationality or immigration status. Here are the primary types of UK travel documents:
Blue Travel Document (Convention of Geneva 1951)
The blue travel document is issued to refugees or individuals who have been granted asylum in the UK under the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees. This document is intended to allow individuals without a national passport to travel internationally. Holders of this document are usually treated as refugees in the country they are visiting, and may face additional visa requirements when traveling to other nations, including Belgium.
Red Travel Document (Convention of New York 1954)
The red travel document is typically issued to individuals who are stateless but reside in the UK. Stateless individuals are those who are not recognized as nationals by any country, and the red travel document is provided to facilitate their travel abroad. Much like the blue travel document, holders of the red travel document may require a visa for travel to countries in the Schengen Area, including Belgium.
Black Travel Document (Certificate of Identity)
The black travel document or Certificate of Identity is issued to foreign nationals living in the UK who do not have a national passport but still require travel documentation. This document is typically provided to individuals who are not refugees or stateless, but for whom the UK government has agreed to issue a travel certificate. Like the blue and red travel documents, holders of a black travel document must check specific visa requirements for Belgium.
Visa Requirements for UK Travel Document Holders
When traveling to Belgium, holders of UK travel documents must understand the specific visa requirements based on the type of travel document they hold.
Schengen Visa Requirement for Blue and Red Travel Document Holders
Holders of the blue travel document (Convention of Geneva 1951) and the red travel document (Convention of New York 1954) are required to apply for a Schengen visa (Type C) before traveling to Belgium. The Schengen visa allows travelers to enter Belgium and other Schengen Area countries for short stays, generally up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Area but requires a prior application and approval.
Airport Transit (Type A Visa)
If you are transiting through a Belgian airport but do not plan to leave the international transit zone, you do not require a full Schengen visa. Instead, you will need to apply for an airport transit visa (Type A). This visa is specifically for travelers who are passing through the airport and will not enter Belgium’s mainland or other parts of the Schengen Area. It is important to check if your country of citizenship requires an airport transit visa when traveling through a Schengen country.
Visa Application Process for Belgium
For holders of UK travel documents who need a Schengen visa, the application process can be a bit detailed, but understanding the steps will help make the process smoother.
Determine the Type of Visa
First, determine whether you need a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) or an airport transit visa (Type A). If you’re traveling for tourism, business, or family visits, you will need the Type C visa. If you’re just passing through the airport, the Type A visa may be sufficient.
Gather the Required Documents
The next step is to gather the necessary documents to support your visa application. Generally, these documents include:
A valid UK travel document (blue, red, or black).
A completed visa application form.
A passport-sized photo that meets the Schengen visa photo requirements.
Proof of travel insurance covering medical emergencies with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros.
Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Belgium (bank statements, payslips, etc.).
A confirmed return ticket or onward travel ticket.
Accommodation details in Belgium (hotel reservations, invitation letter, etc.).
A visa fee (which may vary, but typically ranges from 60-80 euros for a short-stay visa).
Proof of your travel purpose (tourism, business, family visit, etc.).
Submit the Application
Once all the required documents are ready, you can submit your application. Applications are typically submitted to the Belgian Embassy or Consulate in the UK, or through an authorized visa application center. In some cases, applications may also be submitted online if the embassy supports electronic submission.
Wait for Processing
The processing time for a Schengen visa is usually about 15 calendar days, but this may vary depending on your specific case or if additional documents are required. It’s recommended to apply for your visa well in advance of your planned travel, as processing times can be longer during peak seasons.
Collect Your Visa
Once your visa has been approved, you will be notified to collect your travel document. Ensure you check that all the information on your visa is correct before traveling to Belgium.
Duration of Stay in Belgium
For most travelers holding a UK-issued travel document, the duration of stay in Belgium is 90 days within a 180-day period for short-stay visits, such as tourism or business. This is a standard rule for holders of Schengen visas, including blue and red travel document holders.
Longer Stays
If you wish to stay in Belgium for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa or a residence permit. This may be required for work, study, or other long-term purposes. Contact the Belgian Embassy or Consulate for more specific information regarding long-term stays.
Additional Requirements for Visa Applicants
When applying for a Schengen visa, there are several additional requirements that must be met to ensure your application is approved. These include:
Proof of Return or Onward Travel
You will need to show evidence that you plan to leave Belgium and return to the UK or another destination after your visit. This can include a return flight ticket or proof of onward travel.
Sufficient Funds
You must demonstrate that you have enough financial means to support yourself during your stay in Belgium. This can be shown through recent bank statements, payslips, or other forms of proof.
Travel Insurance
You will need to show proof of travel insurance that covers emergency medical expenses and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros.
Conclusion
Holders of UK travel documents must be aware of the visa requirements when traveling to Belgium. Depending on the type of travel document (blue, red, or black), a Schengen visa may be necessary. The application process involves submitting various documents and fees, and approval typically takes 15 days. Travelers should also note the duration of their stay and additional requirements such as travel insurance and proof of sufficient funds. For detailed assistance and up-to-date information, contact the Belgian Embassy or consulate in the UK.
