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CertiDocsThe practical guide

Documents for family reunification in Belgium

Documents and translations depend on your family circumstances and the sponsor’s status. Check the official list and accepted languages before ordering.

Understand the process
Editorial lead : CertiDocs Team5 sources

Which records need translation?

Link to this section

For foreign records proving family ties, the Immigration Office requires a sworn translation when the language is not German, English, French or Dutch. Also check the consulate’s or municipality’s formalities.

Official sourceImmigration Office - Family reunification with a Belgian sponsorImmigration Office - Family reunification visa D

Prepare the list for your circumstances

Link to this section

The list depends on the sponsor’s status and the family relationship. Use the official list for your category; check each document’s date, language and authentication separately.

Official sourceImmigration Office - Family reunification with a Belgian sponsorIBZ - Proof of family relationship or partnershipImmigration Office - Family reunification visa DFPS Justice - National register of sworn translators and interpreters

The filing year alone does not determine the rules

Link to this section

The Act of 18 July 2025 entered into force on 18 August 2025. Article 24 provides transitional rules. For certain applications filed before 18 August 2027, the sponsor’s prior admission to residence exceeding three months before 18 August 2025 matters. Have your precise category identified.

Official sourceJustel - Act of 18 July 2025, Article 24: transitional provisions

Documents to prepare

  • The list depends on the sponsor’s status and the family relationship. Use the official list for your category; check each document’s date, language and authentication separately.
  • Marriage certificate or proof of cohabitation
  • Criminal record extract
  • Medical certificate
  • Proof of sufficient income of the sponsor
  • Proof of adequate housing
  • Valid passport + identity photos

Steps to follow

  1. Identify required documents

    Check the Immigration Office website for the exact list of documents based on your family situation (spouse, minor child, parent).

  2. Translate the records required

    For foreign records proving family ties, the Immigration Office requires a sworn translation when the language is not German, English, French or Dutch. Also check the consulate’s or municipality’s formalities.

  3. Apostille if necessary

    Documents from countries that have signed the Hague Convention must bear an apostille. For other countries, legalisation by the Belgian embassy or consulate is required.

  4. Submit to the Immigration Office

    The complete file is submitted to the Belgian embassy/consulate in the country of origin, or directly to the municipality in Belgium if the family member is already in the territory.

Good to know

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Frequently asked questions

+What documents are needed for family reunification?
The list depends on the sponsor’s status and the family relationship. Use the official list for your category; check each document’s date, language and authentication separately.
+How long does the family reunification process take?
The time limit and its starting point depend on the sponsor’s status and the procedure. Check the Immigration Office’s examination-time section for your category and any permitted extensions.
+How much does translating all documents cost?
Request a quote for the records that actually need translation, based on pages, languages and required format. Translation costs are separate from administrative fees.
+In what languages must the documents be translated?
For foreign records proving family ties, the Immigration Office requires a sworn translation when the language is not German, English, French or Dutch. Also check the consulate’s or municipality’s formalities.
+What is the role of the Immigration Office?
The Immigration Office (DVZ/OE) is the federal administration that examines family reunification applications, checks file completeness and makes the decision to authorise or refuse residence.
+What can I do if family reunification is refused?
Keep the decision and its notification. Have a specialist lawyer promptly check the available appeal route and the deadline applying to that decision.

Official source

Official sources used

The references below are the public sources used to document this page. The competent authority always retains the final decision.

Official sourceImmigration Office - Family reunification with a Belgian sponsorOfficial sourceIBZ - Proof of family relationship or partnershipOfficial sourceImmigration Office - Family reunification visa DOfficial sourceFPS Justice - National register of sworn translators and interpretersOfficial sourceJustel - Act of 18 July 2025, Article 24: transitional provisions

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