Get Your Belgium Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Descent : You are a Belgian citizen if at least one parent was a Belgian citizen at the time of your birth. Citizenship may also pass to children born abroad if registered properly.
- By Naturalization: Foreign residents can apply after 5 years of legal residence in Belgium with integration, language proficiency, and economic participation.
- By Marriage : Spouses of Belgian citizens can apply for naturalization after 3 years of marriage and cohabitation in Belgium.
- Dual Citizenship Allowed: Belgium fully permits dual citizenship. You do not need to renounce your previous nationality.
Step-by-Step Process
- Choose your path: descent, naturalization, or marriage.
- Submit your application to your local municipality or Belgian consulate.
- Provide required documents such as proof of ancestry, marriage, residence, and integration.
- Undergo checks for language skills, financial stability, and civic integration (if applicable).
- Receive your Belgian nationality certificate once approved.
Benefits of Belgian Citizenship
- Live and work anywhere in the European Union
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 countries
- Access to Belgium’s healthcare, education, and social benefits
- Pass Belgian citizenship to your children
- No requirement to give up your original citizenship
Frequently asked questions.
Does Belgium allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Belgium allows dual and multiple citizenships. You do not need to renounce your previous nationality when becoming Belgian.
Can I get Belgian citizenship through my parents?
Yes. If at least one parent was Belgian at the time of your birth, you likely acquired Belgian citizenship automatically — even if born abroad, depending on registration.
Can I apply through marriage?
Yes. If you’ve been married to a Belgian citizen for at least 3 years and live together in Belgium, you can apply for naturalization.
Can same-sex couples apply for citizenship through marriage?
Yes. Belgium recognizes same-sex marriage, and spouses (regardless of gender) are eligible for naturalization under the same rules as opposite-sex couples.
Will I owe taxes in both countries?
Belgium taxes residents on worldwide income. If your other country of citizenship does too, a tax treaty may help prevent double taxation. Always consult a tax advisor.