International Scholar at K.U.Leuven - Non-EEA
 |
 |
Regulative framework
The enrolment category of “international scholar” was introduced following a legal change in which the status of “free researcher” was rescinded, which in turn meant that foreign students and researchers needed to be reclassified. Thus, in consultation with Office of Foreigners’ Affairs, the category of “international scholar” was created for foreign students who, within the context of their studies and/or research at their home university, wish to carry out a study or research period at K.U.Leuven outside the framework of the Socrates exchange programme.Definition
This form concerns non-EEA citizens who usually have a scholarship, and usually within the framework of an exchange programme for a longer period of time (over three months, though no longer than 18 months), reside in Leuven to conduct study or research activities, usually in preparation for a doctorate they will obtain at their home university.Status
Status in Belgium:- With respect to the Belgian government, they have the status of student. Students only have the right to stay in Belgium if they, in a foreign country, have received an authorisation for a provisional residence (visa type D), are registered in the Foreigners’ Register upon their arrival and have received proof of registration (white identity card) from the Foreigners’ Register (BIVR). Thus, they must request an authorisation for provisional residence from the Belgian embassy or consulate in the country in which they legally reside. To this end, the applicant must provide a valid passport, permission to register as a student, a proof of financial means, a certificate of good behaviour and a medical certificate. It is recommended to begin this procedure at least four months before departure to Belgium. The International Office co-ordinates all the administration in this regard.
- They have the status of "student" and must enrol at the Registrar’s Office as international scholars. The enrolment fee is stipulated by the university’s governing body and amounts to 208 euro.
- Upon enrolment, they receive all the necessary certificates for their stay at K.U.Leuven and in Belgium. They must present themselves to the municipal offices within 8 business days. In the event that they have a scholarship, the International Office arranges health insurance and co-ordinates the scholarship administration.
Research type
Independent fundamental research (type BOF, IUAP, FWO) in function of a doctorate that they shall obtain at their home university.Financing
A scholarship is possible for a maximum period of 18 months.| Fiscal status | Entirely tax-exempt. |
| Social security contributions | Exempt. |
| Scholarship amount | This depends on the budget of the financial source; the scholarship must equal between 860 euro per month (minimum) and 100% of the net salary of an assistant (maximum). |
Status concerning the immigration authorities
No work permit is required.Required insurance
- Accident and third party civil liability: as a student, in effect after enrolment
- Health insurance: required enrolment with a Belgian health insurance company as a student. After registration in the Foreigners’ Register, they can enrol as residents.
- Insurance for personal third party civil liability: purchase required upon enrolment (13 euro), with the exception of students who can prove that they are already covered by a personal third party civil liability policy.
Regulations
In preparation.
