I married abroad: what conditions must I meet to bring my spouse to Belgium?

What is not allowed, what is required?

• If your spouse lives outside the EU, they apply for a family reunification visa (visa D) at the Belgian embassy or consulate responsible for that country. This applies both to the spouse of a Belgian citizen and to the spouse of a foreign national with a right of residence in Belgium.
• Under the new rules, both spouses must be over 21.
• The partner in Belgium must have a stable and sufficient income: at least 110% net of the guaranteed average minimum monthly income (GGMMI), plus 10% for each additional family member. The social integration income, CPAS/OCMW assistance, child benefit, integration allowances and bridging allowances do not count; unemployment benefit only counts if you prove you are actively looking for work. Ask the Immigration Office (dofi.ibz.be) for the current amount.
• You need suitable housing that meets safety and health standards, and health insurance covering the risks in Belgium.
• If you are not Belgian but a national of a non-EU country, you must have unlimited residence and have been authorised to stay in Belgium for at least 2 years, or 1 year if the marriage already existed before you came to Belgium. Special rules apply to recognised refugees.
• Transitional rule: if you are Belgian, or already had a residence permit before 18 August 2025, your spouse's application is assessed under the old rules (lower age and income requirements, shorter waiting period) if it is submitted by 17 August 2027.

Penalty and indirect consequences

Why does this rule exist?

The income and housing conditions aim to ensure that the arriving spouse does not depend on welfare and lives in decent conditions. The age limit and checks protect against forced and sham marriages.