International student
Studying in West Flanders brings its own paperwork trail, alongside all the new experiences. This checklist walks you through it in four phases, from your first application to life after graduation.
How to read
this checklist
Need to do
A required step
Handy tip
Useful, but optional
Preparing to move (3 - 6 months before departure)
Need to do
A required step
Visa & documents
- Apply for your student visa if you're a non-EU national (3-4 months processing time for non-EU students)
- Get your enrolment or invitation letter from your university
- Gather your:
- passport
- transcripts and diplomas
- proof of funds or financial guarantee
- valid health insurance - Apply for diploma recognition via NARIC-Vlaanderen if needed
Finances
- Prove you have enough funds (bank statement, scholarship letter or sponsor declaration)
- Budget for your first 3 months (housing, food, transport)
- Research scholarships you might qualify for
Housing
- Start your housing search early - university housing offices fill up months ahead
- Contact your university's housing office if you're struggling to find a place
- Arrange temporary accommodation as a backup if permanent housing isn't confirmed yet
- Moving with a partner or family? See bringing your family to Belgium
Handy tip
Useful, but optional
Get ready
- Research Kortrijk, Bruges and Roeselare - each has a different feel
- Not sure which institution fits your programme? See universities and colleges in West Flanders
- Pick up a few basic Dutch phrases
- Join your university's buddy programme early
- Find international student groups for West Flanders online
- Look into transport options - train, bus, or a bike-friendly city
- Understand academic calendar and holiday periods
Practical prep
- Check if you need an international driving licence, if you plan to driving
- Get any documents translated if required
- Compare mobile and banking options before you arrive
- Pack appropriate clothing for Belgian weather
Arrival week (Arrival period - first 2 weeks)
Need to do
A required step
Getting official
- Attend your university's orientation days
- Register your address at the gemeente (local council office)
- Apply for your residence permit if staying over 90 days
- Collect your eID and set up itsme
- Collect your student card
- Activate student email account
Getting set up
- Open a Belgian bank account
- Get a local SIM card or activate roaming
Handy tip
Useful, but optional
Settling in
- Meet your buddy or mentor student
- Go to welcome events and activities
- Set up your study space
- Look for ways to meet people and make friends
- Join a student association (kring) or check out student activities and hangouts
Getting around
- Look into student discounts on De Lijn, SNCB
- Locate grocery stores and understand shopping hours
- Find and register with a local GP
First few months (First 3 months and afterward)
Need to do
A required step
Academics
- Set up your student portal access for timetables, course materials, and information
- Purchase required textbooks and materials
- Check whether you're eligible for a course exemption
- Keep your residence permit valid and meet study progress conditions
Legal & financial
- Check the current working hours limit for students
- Check if and when you need to file a tax return
Student life
- Understand your rights under your rental agreement
- Know emergency contacts and support services
- Register with a Belgian health insurance fund (mutuality)
Handy tip
Useful, but optional
Academic life
- Form study groups with classmates
- Use your university's tutoring and counselling services
Work & language
- Look into part-time work opportunities
- Attend career fairs and networking events
- Connect with employment agencies for future job searches
- Keep building your Dutch
Beyond campus
- Explore Belgian cities, local food and culture
- Travel to neighbouring countries
- Document your experience for future reference
- It's normal to feel homesick or out of place sometimes - see adjusting to Belgian culture or mental health support
After graduation (Once you finish your studies)
Need to do
A required step
Before you graduate
- Look into the orientation year (oriënteringsjaar) before your permit expires
- Complete your degree requirements and request your diploma and transcripts
- Check your work rights during the orientation year
Handy tip
Useful, but optional
Career next steps
- Register with recruitment agencies
- Connect with alumni in West Flanders in your field
- Ask IHWF about self-employment options if that interests you
Keep a copy
Open all four phases above first, so nothing gets left out. Then use your browser's print option (Ctrl+P on Windows, Cmd+P on Mac) and choose "Save as PDF" to keep this checklist for later.
Working professional checklist
