Belgian Citizenship by Marriage

Marriage to a citizen of Belgium does not grant you citizenship automatically. Nevertheless, it might simplify the citizenship application process.

You can apply for a “Family reunification” visa if you marry a citizen of Belgium and are not an EU member. You and your spouse are able to live in Belgium with this visa. You can be qualified to apply for Belgian citizenship after spending at least three years there.

Who is eligible for Belgian citizenship by marriage?

To be eligible for citizenship, you must meet certain requirements, including:

  1. Residing legally in Belgium for at least three years (or five years if you are not married to a Belgian citizen)
  2. Being able to speak one of Belgium’s official languages (Dutch, French, or German) at a basic level
  3. Being integrated into Belgian society
  4. Not having a criminal record

What is the application process?

Apply for a Family Reunification visa: As a non-EU citizen, you must submit an application for a Family Reunification visa in order to travel to Belgium with your Belgian spouse. You and your spouse are able to live in Belgium with this visa.

  1. Living in Belgium lawfully for at least three years is a requirement (or five years if you are not married to a Belgian citizen)
  2. Learn one of Belgium’s official languages: You must have a basic command of either Dutch, French, or German, one of Belgium’s three official languages
  3. Assimilate into Belgian society: You must demonstrate that you have done so. This includes things like working or going to school, paying taxes, and getting involved in the community
  4. A certificate of good conduct from your home country and the absence of a criminal record are requirements
  5. Pass a citizenship test: You might have to get a certain score on a citizenship test that asks you about Belgium’s politics, history, culture, and society

You will need to provide supporting papers with your application, including your Family Reunification visa, language proficiency certificates, and a certificate of good conduct, to demonstrate your eligibility. It could take a while for your application to be processed after you submit it, and you might have to go to an interview as well.

It’s important to keep in mind that the application process for Belgian citizenship by marriage can be drawn out and complicated, so it’s advised that you speak with an experienced immigration lawyer or counselor to help you manage the process.

FAQ

Can I become a citizen of Belgium by marrying a citizen of Belgium?

Although getting citizenship by marriage does not guarantee it, in some circumstances it may make the process simpler.

How long must I have been married to a citizen of Belgium before I may seek for citizenship?

The length of your legal residence in Belgium must be at least three years (or five years if you are not married to a Belgian citizen) before you may apply for citizenship. There is no minimum amount of time that you must have been married to a Belgian citizen.

Does becoming a citizen of Belgium require me to speak Dutch, French, or German?

Yes, you must have a basic command of either Dutch, French, or German in order to become a citizen of Belgium.

What additional requirements must be satisfied before receiving Belgian citizenship by marriage?

The requirements for citizenship include proving that you have integrated into Belgian society, being clear of all criminal convictions, and passing a test on Belgian politics, history, culture, and society.

How long does it take to obtain Belgian citizenship by marriage?

It may take several months to finish the application procedure, and it can take even longer for a decision to be made regarding your application.

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