You can invest money in one of the regions of Belgium – Brussels, Wallonia, or Flanders. The right to obtain Belgian citizenship by investment is granted after 5 years of permanent residence in the territory of the state. The investor must prove knowledge of one of the state languages and participation in the economic and social life of Belgium.
The benefits of Belgium citizenship
Free entry
Belgian citizens are allowed free entry to 184 countries of the world, including the countries of the Schengen Agreement, the European Union, Canada, the USA, Hong Kong, Singapore. In addition, as an EU citizen, you can move to any EU country for permanent residence.
Tax benefits
For business owners, a loyal taxation system has been developed to optimize income.
Health care
Regardless of the country of residence, you will have the opportunity to receive quality medical care in European clinics and hospitals.
Citizenship for family
The right to obtain citizenship extends to the spouse and children of the main applicant.
European education
For citizens of Belgium, there are loyal conditions for admission and study at schools and universities in Europe.
Requirements
According to Belgian law, foreigners wishing to invest in the country are issued a golden visa and are granted the right to apply for a residence permit. Multiple extension of residence permits and active participation in the life of society opens up the possibility of obtaining Belgian citizenship by investment.
The minimum investment in the Belgium business is 350,000 Euros. Make sure that Belgian law requires you to hire locals. Applicants for the Golden visa must have an impeccable reputation and no criminal record.
In addition, it is important to prove that money for investment was obtained in a legal way. A person is required to socially and culturally integrate into society and have a good knowledge of the French language, especially if you want to obtain a Belgian passport.
The residence permit is issued for 1 year with the right of extension. Within 5 years of holding a residence permit, the applicant, along with his family, has the right to apply for Belgian citizenship. A businessman’s residence permit is annually extended for the first 3 years. Obtaining resident status can take from 3 to 8 months.
Documents Required for getting Golden visa in Belgium
- Proof of being an EU citizen.
- Valid proof of identity
- Copy of the passport
- Proof of accommodation in Belgium
- Proof of family relationship, marriage, or partnership with a spouse or partner.
- Proof that descendants like children under the age of 21 years and ascendants like parents are dependent on the applicant.
- Medical certificate issued by a doctor recognized by the Belgian Embassy or Consulate
Fees
The costs associated with setting up a company include the direct costs of setting up € 10-20 thousand, an annual renewal fee of € 5,000, rent of about € 6,000 per year, administrative and operating costs of about € 1,000 per year, salaries, and other expenses.
Outcome
Belgium is a popular country for immigration; people from all over the world dreaming to move there. This is due to high living standards, a warm climate, and a nice environment for investment and business. Moreover, you can get EU citizenship very quickly (just for 5 years). Besides, one of the positive aspects of obtaining a Belgian passport is the fact that you do not have to give up your first citizenship. Not all European countries are allowed to have dual citizenship.