How to Apply for a Belgian Passport Online Complete Guide

How to Apply for a Belgian Passport Online Complete Guide Need to travel abroad from Belgium in 2025? Whether you’re a citizen living in the country or a Belgian residing overseas, having a valid Belgian passport is essential. Belgium offers an efficient process to apply in person or online (partially) through the local commune or embassy systems.

This detailed guide explains how to apply for a Belgian passport online, eligibility criteria, required documents, processing time, fees, and how to apply from abroad.

Who Can Apply for a Belgian Passport?

You are eligible if:

• You are a Belgian citizen

• You have a National Register Number (NISS)

• You are listed in the Belgian population register or consular register (for citizens abroad)

Types of Belgian Passports

Online Passport Application – Is It Fully Digital?

Currently, the Belgian passport process is partially online:

• You can start the process online (in some communes or via eID)

• Final submission and biometric data (photo, fingerprints, signature) must be provided in person

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Belgian Passport

1. Prepare Required Documents

• Belgian eID (electronic ID card)

• Old passport (if applicable)

• Proof of residence

• Digital or printed passport photo (can also be taken on-site)

2. Book Appointment at Your Commune or Embassy

Visit your local municipality (commune) or consulate (if abroad). Some communes allow you to:

• Book appointments online

• Upload personal data in advance using eID card + card reader

3. Visit the Office for Biometric Data

• Signature, fingerprints, and facial photo are collected.

• Biometric data is required for all applicants over 6 years of age.

4. Pay the Applicable Fee

You can pay:

• Online (where available)

• On-site by card or cash

5. Receive Your Passport

• Standard delivery: 5–10 working days

• Urgent service: within 1–2 working days

Belgian Passport for Children

• Children must apply with both parents’ approval

• Parents or guardians must accompany minors under 18

• Child passports are valid for 5 years

Renewing a Belgian Passport

• No online renewal system exists—follow the same steps as a new application.

• Renewal is possible up to 6 months before expiry

Belgian Passport for Expats

If you live abroad, apply through your local Belgian embassy or consulate. Ensure you’re registered in the Consular Population Register. Requirements and fees may vary slightly depending on the country.

Lost or Stolen Belgian Passport

• Report loss or theft to:

  • Local police (in Belgium)

  • Local authorities & embassy (abroad)

• Complete declaration of loss form

• Apply for a new passport (or temporary one if urgent)

Belgian Biometric Passport

All Belgian passports issued since 2014 are biometric, meaning they contain:

• Facial image

• Two fingerprints (age 12+)

• Digital signature

Biometric data ensures compliance with EU & international travel standards and helps prevent identity fraud.

FAQs

Q1: Can I complete the Belgian passport process 100% online?
A: No. You can start online in some communes, but in-person biometric capture is required.

Q2: How long is a Belgian passport valid?
A: 7 years for adults, 5 years for minors.

Q3: Is there an express or urgent passport option?
A: Yes. Urgent passports are available in 1–2 days at a higher fee.

Q4: Can I use my Belgian passport as an EU ID for travel?
A: Yes. It allows visa-free travel to 190+ countries, including EU, USA, UK, Canada, etc.

Q5: What if I live abroad and don’t have a Belgian eID?
A: You can still apply at a consulate or embassy using your passport and NISS.

Conclusion

Applying for a Belgian passport online in 2025 is smoother than ever, though still not 100% digital. The process involves a mix of online pre-registration (via eID tools) and in-person biometric appointments. Whether you’re in Belgium or abroad, your passport is a powerful travel document recognized globally.

Make sure your documents are ready, book an appointment early—especially before peak travel seasons—and enjoy the freedom of international mobility with one of the world’s strongest passports.