Extending a stay of less than 3 months

This is your situation:

  • You do not have the nationality of an EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland.
  • You are staying in Belgium for no more than 90 days. This period is nearly over.
  • Due to exceptional circumstances you are unable to leave Belgium on time (e.g. for medical reasons)

Then you can apply for an extension of your short stay. 

How to apply for extension?

Step 1: Gather the documents

You attach these documents to your application:

  • National passport
    Biodata page
    Pay attention to the requirements
  • Declaration of arrival
    'Annex 3'
  • Proof of a valid travel insurance
    The travel insurance:
    • Is valid for the duration of the desired extension
    • Is valid for the entire Schengen area
    • Offers a minimum coverage of € 30,000
    • Must meet the requirements for a foreign document if the contract has not been drawn up in Belgium
  • Motivation letter
    You explain why you cannot leave Belgium due to exceptional circumstances
  • Other proof in support of your application for extension
    If applicable.
  • Medical certificate
    If you are applying for extension for medical reasons.
    Print this document, and have it completed and duly signed by your attending specialist.

What you need to know before you start

  • Attach the documents in colour.
  • Preferably attach the documents in pdf (not applicable for photos).
  • Make a single file of documents consisting of several pages or belonging together.
    E.g. all pages of your travel insurance contract
  • A document may not exceed 10 MB in size.

Step 2: Apply for extension

Apply for extension of your short stay

Step 3: We forward your application to the Immigration Office of the federal authorities

As soon as we receive their decision, we shall contact you.

Step 4: Make an appointment in the city office

We will invite you to come to the city office, by appointment.

How to make an appointment?

You can do so online or by phone.

Online

If you are not in Belgium, you can only make an appointment by phone.

Make an appointment

Call us

What do you need to bring?

  • National passport
  • Declaration of arrival (‘annex 3’)

More information

Do you have a question? 

Contact us, we are happy to help you.

Call us

016 27 21 94

Mail us

nietbelgen@leuven.be
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Something wrong or unclear on this page? Let us know.