Immigration to Belgium for Albanians: key stages and tips in 2025

Immigration to Belgium is becoming a popular choice for Albanians due to its high standard of living, stable economy, and opportunities for work and study. However, moving to another country requires careful preparation and understanding of local requirements. In this article, you will find useful information on visas, support for immigrants, and recommendations that will help make the process smoother and more successful.

Reasons for immigration

In 2024, a significant number of Albanians moved to Belgium, seeking better living conditions, educational prospects and stable work. The main reasons for immigration include the attractiveness of the Belgian standard of living, a developed economy and career opportunities. Many choose Belgium due to its openness and assistance to immigrants through various adaptation programs.

Reasons for immigration:

• Economic outlook: Belgium offers a stable labour market and employment opportunities for professionals in various fields.
• High level of education. For students from Albania, Belgian universities provide quality education and international recognition.
• Standard of living: Albanians value stability, developed infrastructure and access to quality healthcare in Belgium.
• Support for immigrants. Humanitarian programs and social initiatives facilitate the rapid integration of new arrivals.
• Public safety: Belgium is considered one of the safest countries to live in.

Immigration from Albania to Belgium continues to grow, despite the difficulties associated with paperwork. The governments of both countries are working to simplify migration processes. Modern adaptation programs help Albanians quickly integrate into Belgian society. However, despite all the advantages, immigrants face challenges such as the language barrier and high competition in the labor market.

Interesting fact:
Did you know that in Belgium there are specialized language courses that help Albanians adapt to the new environment?

Stages of immigration

The process of immigration from Albania to Belgium consists of several key stages, which include preparing the necessary documents, obtaining a visa or residence permit, and complying with migration regulations. Much attention is paid to the legalization of diplomas, language exams, and financial security. To ensure a successful move, it is also recommended to familiarize yourself with the local culture and legislation.

Types of visas for Albanians

When planning a move to Belgium from Albania, it is important to choose the right visa that suits your purpose: study, work, family reunification or temporary residence. Each visa category has its own requirements, costs and validity periods. Knowing all the nuances will help avoid unnecessary delays and simplify the application process.

1. Work visa:
   • Designed for those who have received a job offer from a Belgian employer.
   • Validity period: from 1 year with the possibility of extension.
   • Cost: about 180 euros.
2. Study visa:
   • For students enrolled in Belgian educational institutions.
   • Validity: for the entire period of study.
   • Cost: about 200 euros.
3. Family Reunification Visa:
   • For relatives planning to move to citizens or residents of Belgium.
   • Validity: Depends on the status of the host family member.
   • Cost: about 150 euros.
4. Business visa:
   • For entrepreneurs, investors or business meeting participants.
   • Validity: up to 90 days within the Schengen area.
   • Cost: about 80 euros.
5. Humanitarian visa:
   • For those seeking international protection or asylum.
   • Special conditions and terms depend on the applicant’s status.
   • Cost: free.

When submitting documents, make sure that all data is provided correctly and that the embassy requirements are met. Insufficient information or late submission may result in refusal. It is also important to consider that some visas may require an interview or additional certificates.

Tip:
The Belgium study visa for students includes the possibility of part-time work up to 20 hours per week.

Preparation of documents

At the first stage of immigration to Belgium, it is important for Albanians to carefully prepare all documents. This includes obtaining a visa, confirmation of employment or study, and collecting the necessary certificates. Not only the success of the application, but also the speed of obtaining an entry permit depends on the correct preparation of the papers.

List of documents:

• Passport: valid for at least 6 months after entry.
• Work or study visa: issued on the basis of an invitation from an employer or educational institution.
• Work contract or study invitation: official confirmation of your purpose of stay.
• Proof of financial solvency: bank statements showing sufficient funds for living expenses.
• Medical insurance: must cover the entire period of stay in Belgium.
• Certificate of no criminal record: a document confirming the absence of a criminal record.
• Family status certificates: If you are travelling with your family, you must provide marriage certificates and birth certificates of your children.
• Visa Application Form: Completed and signed application form.

Preparing documents is a key step for successful immigration. Make sure that all papers are translated into English, French or Dutch and certified according to the requirements. It is also recommended to check the details with the consulate in advance to avoid mistakes. Careful adherence to all procedures will reduce the risks of refusal.

Tip:
For employment in Belgium, many employers provide assistance in obtaining a work visa, which makes the process much easier.

Stages of visa application

Obtaining a visa to immigrate to Belgium from Albania is a complex but doable process. It is important to study the necessary requirements, collect all the documents and contact the authorities in advance to avoid possible mistakes. Understanding the key stages, such as submitting an application and waiting for the results, will help make the procedure more understandable and successful.

List of design stages:

1. Preparation of documents:
   • A passport with a minimum six-month validity.
   • Certificate of no criminal record, medical certificate, photographs.
   • Address: Ministry of Interior of Albania, Tirana.
   • Website: albania.gov.al .
2. Submitting an application to the Belgian Consulate:
   • Location: Embassy of Belgium in Tirana.
   • Address: Ruga Donika Kastrioti, Tirana.
   • Phone: +355 4 223 28 34.
   • Costs: consular fee – about 200 euros.
   • Waiting time: 2-3 weeks.
3. Passing the interview:
   • Purpose of the visit, financial support, plans in Belgium.
4. Waiting for response:
   • Average time: up to 60 days.

If you are refused, it is not the end of the road. You can contact the consulate for additional information or file an appeal within the established deadlines. Often, the reason for refusal is related to the absence of some document or insufficient explanation of the purpose of the visit. Attention to detail will help to avoid such mistakes in the future.

Tip:
Before submitting your documents, make sure you have translations of all documents into French, Dutch or English.

Difficulties of integration into Belgian society

In the first phase of integration, Albanians in Belgium often face language barriers, cultural differences and difficulties finding a job. Without proper support, adapting to a new society can seem like an insurmountable task. However, there are ways to overcome these difficulties through local programs, training and a support network.

Main difficulties and their solutions:

• Language barrier: Many Albanians have difficulty learning Dutch or French. The solution is courses offered by local learning centres and communities.
• Cultural differences: Adapting to new social norms and traditions can be difficult. The solution is to participate in cultural events and clubs.
• Difficulty finding a job: Lack of EU work experience and certificates can make it difficult to find a job. The solution is retraining and professional adaptation programs.
• Housing: Finding affordable housing can be difficult. The solution is to get help from organizations that support immigrants.
• Social isolation: no contact with locals. Solution: volunteering or involvement in local communities.

To successfully integrate in Belgium, it is important to be proactive, strive to learn the language and take part in social life. Understanding the local culture and willingness to learn new things will help you adapt to the new environment faster. Public and private organizations provide assistance that is important not to neglect.

Tip:
In some cities in Belgium, free language courses are available to all new residents.

Recommendations for successful immigration

1. Learn the language in advance: Start learning French or Dutch before you move.
2. Get your paperwork right: Make sure you have all the necessary visas and permits.
3. Find housing early: Look for temporary housing through platforms like Airbnb, then look for long-term housing.
4. Get to know the job market: find out what professions are in demand.
5. Find help contacts in advance: research organizations that help migrants.
6. Attend adaptation courses: participate in trainings and programs for beginners.
7. Get to know the culture: learn about the traditions and peculiarities of local life.
8. Prepare a financial cushion: a cash reserve will help in the first months.
9. Build social connections: Participate in events to meet locals.
10. Plan for health insurance: Make sure you have the right insurance.