From an A card to an F card

@hssn601

I think the question to address your scenario should be: While you were both on A cards(before you became a citizen), did you do the family reunion procedure to regularise your marriage/family at your commune?

@hssn601
I think the question to address your scenario should be: While you were both on A cards(before you became a citizen), did you do the family reunion procedure to regularise your marriage/family at your commune? - @Raumdeuter

I was on L card then became citizen, We did family reunification while both of us were on A card around 5 years ago.

@hssn601

Yes, She can apply for F card (being spouse of EU/BE national). Check with the commune for the list of documents and submit the application.

@hssn601
Yes, She can apply for F card (being spouse of EU/BE national). Check with the commune for the list of documents and submit the application. - @ARMaliq

Checked their website no information available, do you mean go there and ask them?

@hssn601

Ask them for the documents required to request F card for your wife. There is no question of IF YOU CAN APPLY. Your wife IS eligible to apply. If that means, going there and getting all information, that should be fine for you as well.

Thanks! I will visit them

Hi @hssn601 I was also in the same situation. My wife is currently on an A card, which expires in Jan 2026. Next year, she’ll complete 5 years of residence in Belgium and become eligible for PR. The commune told her to apply for an F card since I became Belgian a month ago. My question is: if she gets the F card now, does she lose the 4 years she already has on her A card, or will it still count toward the 5 years?

@RKSI

Why would she lost the 4 years? Why a card replacement would affect her past?

Many times i lived in Belgium with an Annex. Just an annex. From A card to Annex and Annex to A card didnt change anything.

For her NO! Her legal status will continue .

Hi @maharaji1984

Three options from commune, can someone tell me which one is good to proceed,

Submit a request for an extension of your current A residence permit, which is limited.

Make a change of status as family reunification with your child.

This may entitle him to an F card (with the agreement of the immigration office)

Apply for a long-term stay (L card) which will entitle you to a 10-year card.

@RKSI

Then apply for an F card. Once 5 year is finished she can apply > F+ and after > citizenship.

Hi @maharaji1984

Today applied to fcard to my spouse, and commune 1000 brussels mentioned to wait for 6 months to approve and strictly mentioned not to send any email before 6 months, now my spouse RP is getting expire on Jan 2026, does it mean that we have to apply for A card extension now? What is the timeline for this now? I do not find the option in brussels website to book an appointment for A card extension, can some one help me here

@RKSI

Yes, don't wait for F card's approval, Apply immediately for A card renewal before 45 days of expiry.

For appointment, try to visit commune and explain about your situation, in this case they can offer you urgent appointment.