If you are working in Belgium or planning to move there, you might wonder whether you can bring your family along. The good news is yes — Belgium allows foreign workers to reunite with their family members under its Family Reunification Visa policy. This process lets your spouse, registered partner, and dependent children join you legally while you live and work in Belgium.

Who Can Apply for Family Reunification in Belgium?

If you hold a valid Belgian work permit or residence card, you can apply to bring the following family members:

• Your spouse or registered partner (over 21 years old, or over 18 if you have been together for a long time)

• Your unmarried minor children (under 18 years old)

• In some cases, adult dependent children or dependent parents (if they rely entirely on you financially)

Both EU Blue Card holders and foreign workers on standard work permits can use this process to reunite with family in Belgium.

Basic Requirements for Family Reunification

To bring your family to Belgium, you must meet certain legal and financial conditions:

1. Valid Residence Status: You must already live in Belgium on a legal work permit or residence card.

2. Stable and Regular Income: You must prove you earn enough to support your family without relying on public assistance.

   • As of 2025, the minimum income requirement is about €1,900–€2,200 per month (net), depending on family size.

3. Adequate Housing: You must show proof of suitable accommodation in Belgium (rental contract, property deed, etc.).

4. Health Insurance: You and your family must have valid health insurance covering medical costs in Belgium.

5. Family Relationship Proof: Marriage certificate, birth certificates, or official documents proving family ties.

All foreign documents must be translated into Dutch, French, or German and legalized (apostilled).

Step-by-Step Process to Bring Your Family

1. Prepare the Documents: Gather all necessary papers — passports, marriage or birth certificates, proof of income, and housing.

2. Apply for a Family Reunification Visa: Your family applies for a D Visa (long-stay) at the Belgian embassy in your home country.

3. Visa Processing: The application is sent to the Immigration Office in Belgium for approval. Processing time usually takes 3–6 months.

4. Arrival in Belgium: Once approved, your family receives the visa and can travel to Belgium.

5. Register with Local Commune: Within 8 days of arrival, your family must register at the local town hall (commune) to obtain residence cards.

Rights of Family Members in Belgium

Once your family joins you, they will receive a residence card linked to your work permit. They can:

• Live, study, and access healthcare in Belgium.

• Work legally (after certain conditions are met, depending on your residence status).

• Apply for independent residence after five years of continuous stay.

If your work permit is renewed or converted to long-term residence, your family’s permits can also be extended.

Common Reasons for Rejection

Applications can be refused if:

• Documents are incomplete or not translated correctly.

• The applicant cannot show enough income or housing space.

• The marriage or partnership is not legally recognized.

• The sponsor’s work permit or residence status is temporary or about to expire.

To avoid delays or rejection, it’s best to submit certified translations and legalized documents and double-check all forms before submission.

Helpful Tips

• Apply as early as possible after you receive your work permit.

• Keep copies of every submitted document.

• If your family’s visa is delayed, you can contact the Belgian Immigration Office for updates.

• Consider learning Dutch or French, as it helps your family integrate more easily in Belgium.