Obtaining Belgian nationality
Foreign nationals can only apply for Belgian nationality after 5 years of legal residence in Belgium. There are numerous conditions which must be met.
Children of Belgian parents automatically acquire Belgian nationality. Foreign nationals can apply for Belgian nationality under certain conditions.
When can you submit an application for Belgian nationality?
- You have been legally resident in Belgium for at least 5 years
- You have a right to remain indefinitely
- You are integrated in Belgium, for example you have a certificate of integration
- You speak and write 1 of the 3 national languages
- You have already worked at least 468 days
You can receive more information from the municipality.
How do you apply for Belgian nationality?
- You need to submit the application with the municipality where you are registered.
- The municipal official will examine your application in consultation with the Immigration Office, the public prosecutor's office and the Department for National Security.
- The public prosecutor's office will take a decision regarding your application (within 4 months) and will inform the municipal official.
- If the decision is negative, you can appeal to the Court of First Instance.