Dual Citizen Club
Countries/Belgium/Citizenship by Naturalization

Belgium Citizenship by Naturalization: Complete Guide 2025

Become a Belgiumish citizen after 5 years of legal residence. Keep your original citizenship while gaining EU rights and visa-free travel to 188 countries.

5 Years
Residence Required
79%
Success Rate
€300-1,500
Total Cost

What is Belgium Citizenship by Naturalization?

Naturalization is the process by which foreign nationals can become Belgiumish citizens after meeting residency and integration requirements. After 5 years of continuous legal residence in Belgium, you can apply for citizenship and gain full rights as an EU citizen.

Benefits of Belgium Citizenship

  • EU Freedom: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
  • Global Mobility: Visa-free travel to 188 destinations
  • Social Benefits: Access to Belgium's social security and healthcare
  • Political Rights: Vote in Belgium and EU elections
  • Dual Citizenship: Keep your original nationality

Belgium Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown

$840
Minimum (DIY)
$840 - $1,450
Typical Range
$4,450
Maximum (Full Service)

Detailed Cost Breakdown:

Residence Permit Application
Required

Initial residence permit to start the 5-year requirement

Varies by visa type (work, study, family reunification)

$300 - $150
Residence Permit Renewals
Required

Periodic renewals during 5-year period

Typically renewed annually or biannually

$150 - $250
Dutch Language Test
Required

A2 level proficiency certificate

Must achieve A2 level or higher

$150 - $300
Criminal Background Checks
Required

Police clearances from all countries of residence

Required from all countries lived in after age 16

$50 - $300
Citizenship Application Fee
Required

Final citizenship application processing fee

Paid when submitting naturalization application

$90 - $150
Integration Test/Course
Required

Belgium culture, history, and civic knowledge

Tests knowledge of Belgium society and values

$100 - $300
Legal Assistance
Optional

Immigration lawyer for naturalization process

Recommended for complex cases

$1,000 - $3,000

Important Cost Considerations:

  • Total process takes 5+ years including residency requirement
  • Must maintain continuous legal residence in Belgium
  • A2 level Dutch required for naturalization
  • Must demonstrate integration into Belgium society
  • Dual citizenship allowed
  • Tax compliance required during residency period
  • Success rate approximately 79% for naturalization

💡 Money-Saving Tips:

  • Order documents yourself instead of using agencies (save $200-500)
  • Do translations through certified freelancers vs law firms (save $300-800)
  • Apply directly to consulates rather than through services (save $1000+)
Check Your Eligibility Now

Belgium Naturalization Requirements

Basic Requirements:

  • 5 years of continuous legal residence
  • A2 level Dutch proficiency
  • Clean criminal record
  • Stable income and accommodation
  • Integration into Belgium society

Important Considerations:

  • Must not leave Belgium for more than 6 months per year
  • Must pay taxes in Belgium during residency
  • Processing times can vary significantly

Naturalization Process: Step-by-Step

1

Obtain Legal Residence in Belgium

Get residence permit through work, study, family, or investment

Time: 1-6 months
Cost: €500
3 documents needed

💡 Tip: Different visa types available based on your situation

2

Maintain Continuous Residence for 5 Years

Live legally in Belgium for the required period

Time: 5 years
Cost: €1000
3 documents needed

💡 Tip: Must not leave country for extended periods

3

Pass A2 Dutch Test

Demonstrate language proficiency

Time: 3-6 months
Cost: €200
1 documents needed

💡 Tip: A2 level required for naturalization

4

Prepare Naturalization Application

Gather all required documents and complete forms

Time: 1-2 months
Cost: €300
3 documents needed

💡 Tip: All foreign documents need translation and apostille

5

Submit Citizenship Application

File application with immigration authorities

Time: 1 week
Cost: €400
2 documents needed

💡 Tip: Application fees vary by processing location

6

Pass Citizenship Test/Interview

Demonstrate knowledge of Belgium history, culture, and laws

Time: 1-3 months
Cost: €0
2 documents needed

💡 Tip: Study materials usually provided by authorities

7

Citizenship Approval and Ceremony

Receive approval and attend naturalization ceremony

Time: 1-2 months
Cost: €0
1 documents needed

💡 Tip: Can keep original citizenship

Ways to Obtain Residence in Belgium

Work Visa

Most common route through employment with a Belgium company. Requires job offer and work permit.

EU Blue Card

For highly skilled workers with university degree and qualifying salary offer.

Student Visa

Study at a Belgium university. Time counts partially toward residency requirement.

Family Reunification

Join family members who are Belgium citizens or permanent residents.