Short stay in Ghent
Planning a short stay in Ghent or a visit of less than 3 months? Read here to find out what you need to do as a non-Belgian.
What is it about?
If you are a non-Belgian visiting Ghent for a stay of less than 3 months, you only need to register if you are staying at a private address.
What are the requirements?
Depending on your nationality, different steps may be required to enter Belgium. For more information, visit vreemdelingenrecht.be (Dutch).
What do I need?
For non-EU citizens:
- A scan of your passport in colour (cover, information page, and all pages)
- A scan of your visa (if a visa is required) or residence permit from another EU member state
- An address in Ghent
For EU citizens:
- A scan of your passport or ID card (front and back)
- An address in Ghent
- The date of your arrival in Belgium
What are the steps?
You have two ways to register:
Submit your application online via the DOFI website
Use the app ‘My Address in Belgium’ (MAB) to register. Once you have entered all the information, you will receive a confirmation email.
Please note! This confirmation email is not a proof of your legal stay. It merely confirms that you have complied with the legal obligation to notify your presence. If you intend to apply for a long stay before your short stay expires, you will need to register via the online form of Migratie to receive proof of your registration.
Submit your application online via the e-form of Migratie
Once you arrive in Ghent, you should submit your application as soon as possible. Follow all the steps of the form to complete the application and receive a confirmation email.
Once your application has been processed, you will receive an email with proof of registration.
- As a non-EU citizen, you will receive a declaration of arrival (Annex 3). The document will indicate the final date of your allowed stay.
- As an EU citizen, you will receive a notice of presence (Annex 3ter). This document is valid for 3 months from your arrival in Belgium.
You do not need to report your departure.
For more information about your short stay, contact Infopunt Migratie.
You are not able to submit the application online?
Make an appointment with Migration by calling 09 266 71 50, or visit the city office at our reception desk.