Journalist Visa (Type D - Long Stay)
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 10-16 weeks
- Fee
- EUR 180 (consular fee) + EUR 152 (contribution fee)
- Validity
- Duration of assignment, renewable
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Foreign journalists from non-EU/EEA countries working in Belgium for more than 90 days require a Type D visa combined with a work permit (Single Permit). A temporary Belgian press card issued by the FPS Foreign Affairs (valid for 6 months) is required as part of the combined permit application. Both employed and freelance journalists working for foreign media can apply. For short-term assignments (under 90 days), journalists from visa-free countries can enter without a visa, while Annex I nationals need a standard Schengen Type C visa. Brussels is a major press hub due to EU institutions, and separate media accreditation from the European Commission or Council may be obtained.
Eligibility
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Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss journalists intending to work in Belgium for more than 90 days
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Employment
Must be employed by or freelancing for a bona fide media organization. Must obtain a temporary Belgian press card from FPS Foreign Affairs.
Required status: Employed journalist or accredited freelance journalist
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 12
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Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, color, white background
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Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.
Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
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Medical certificate
Provide medical evidence from a recognised doctor or clinic when the route asks for health confirmation.
Required tests: Standard medical certificate for Belgian long-stay; Validity months: 6
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Type D Visa Application Form; Form url: https://visaonweb.diplomatie.be/
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Bank transfer; Amount: EUR 180 (consular) + EUR 152 (contribution fee)
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Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
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Proof of address
Provide current address evidence, such as a utility bill, tenancy document, residence certificate or official correspondence.
Accepted documents: Proof of accommodation in Belgium; Max age months: 3
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Good conduct certificate
Issuing authority: Issuing authority; Validity months: 6
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Press credentials
Provide a press card, assignment letter or accreditation from the media organisation you represent.
How to apply
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Document gathering
Gather proof of journalist credentials, employment/assignment letter from media organization, CV, passport, photos, police clearance, and medical certificate.
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Document submission
Apply for temporary Belgian press card through FPS Foreign Affairs. The press card is required for the combined work/residence permit application.
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Fee payment
Pay contribution fee of EUR 152.
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Processing wait
Wait for combined permit processing (10-16 weeks).
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Online application
After permit approval, apply for Type D visa at Belgian embassy/consulate.
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Visa collection
Collect passport with Type D visa. Upon arrival, register with municipality within 8 days. After collecting temporary press card and registering residence, request national press card from FPS Home Affairs via International Press Association.