Belgium•EuropeResidence Permit - Medical Reasons (Article 9ter)
At a Glance
Processing Time
60-90 days
Application Fee
Free
Stay Duration
Varies
Renewable
Yes
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Allowed
PR Pathway
No
This visa does not offer a direct route to permanent residency.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Residence authorization for persons requiring medical treatment in Belgium for serious illnesses that would pose a real risk to life or physical integrity if deported.
Article 9ter provides humanitarian protection for persons with serious medical conditions. The law allows those facing real risk to life or physical integrity due to illness to remain in Belgium where adequate treatment is available. As of March 1, 2024, applicants must use a new standard medical certificate model.
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Requirements
Personal
Criminal Record Policy
case_by_case
Excluded Nationalities
Citizens of the following countries are not eligible: AT, BE, BG, CY, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, FR, GR, HR, HU, IE, IT, LT, LU, LV, MT, NL, PL, PT, RO, SE, SI, SK, IS, LI, NO, CH
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Valid passport
Proof of identity
Medical certificate
Standard model from approved Belgian doctor (as of March 1, 2024)
Medical records
Hospital records, treatment history, specialist reports
Proof of residence
Currently residing in Belgium
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Advantages
- Humanitarian medical protection
- Allows access to Belgian healthcare
- Can be renewed with continuing need
- Family reunification possible
Considerations
- Requires serious medical condition
- No treatment in home country requirement
- Lengthy assessment
- Medical evidence scrutinized
Application Process
Obtain medical documentation
Get medical certificate from approved Belgian doctor
Document illness severity
Provide medical evidence of real risk to life/health
Prove lack of treatment
Show treatment unavailable in country of origin
Apply to municipal authority
Submit application at mayor's office where residing
Medical assessment
Immigration Office reviews medical evidence
Receive decision
Obtain authorization decision
Application Forms
Article 9ter Medical Certificate
Ready to Apply?
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