Key Takeaways:
- Many international visitors need a visa for Belarus, with exemptions for nationals from specific countries with varying stay limits.
- Certain passport holders can visit Belarus visa-free for up to 30 days via Minsk National Airport, under specific conditions.
- Travelers eligible for 30-day visa-free entry can visit Brest and Grodno without a visa for up to 10 days.
Who Needs a Visa for Belarus?
Traveling to Belarus typically requires a visa for many international visitors. However, numerous visa-free travel programs exist, especially for those traveling for tourism or business purposes. Nationals from the following countries are exempt from visa requirements:
– Azerbaijan (Indefinite stay)
– Argentina (up to 90 days)
– Armenia (Indefinite stay)
– Brazil (up to 90 days)
– Cuba (up to 30 days)
– Ecuador (up to 30 days)
– Georgia (Indefinite stay)
– Israel (up to 90 days in each period of 180 days)
– Kazakhstan (Indefinite stay)
– Kyrgyzstan (Indefinite stay)
– Macedonia (with private invitation or tourist voucher)
– Moldova (Indefinite stay)
– Mongolia (up to 90 days)
– Montenegro (up to 30 days with invitation or tourist voucher)
– People’s Republic of China (up to 30 days)
– Qatar (up to 30 days)
– Russia (Indefinite stay)
– Serbia (up to 30 days)
– Tajikistan (Indefinite stay)
– Turkey (up to 30 days)
– United Arab Emirates (up to 30 days)
– Ukraine (Indefinite stay)
– Uzbekistan (Indefinite stay)
– Venezuela (up to 90 days)
Also, diplomats holding passports from several countries, including Bangladesh and Bolivia, enjoy visa-free entry. For complete information on visa-free programs, refer to Belarus’ official visa policy.
How to Enter Belarus Visa-Free for 30 Days
Certain passport holders can enter Belarus visa-free for a maximum period of 30 days if they enter through Minsk National Airport. Eligible countries include:
- All European Union citizens
- Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia
- Barbados, Bahrain, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and others
- Canada, Chile, Dominica
- El Salvador, Iceland, Indonesia
- Japan, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Macedonia, Malaysia, Mexico
- Micronesia, Monaco, New Zealand
- Nicaragua, Norway, Oman, Panama
- Peru, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles
- Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland
- United States, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Vatican
Nationals from Gambia, Haiti, India, Lebanon, Namibia, Samoa, and Vietnam can also enter Belarus visa-free through Minsk National Airport under special conditions, such as possessing a multiple-entry visa or national visa from an EU/Schengen member state and a valid return ticket.
10-Day Visa-Free Stay in Brest and Grodno
Travelers eligible for the 30-day visa-free entry via Minsk National Airport can also visit Brest and Grodno visa-free for up to 10 days. Travelers must obtain a special document from a certified travel agency in their home country and enter via specified checkpoints.
Checkpoints for Brest:
– Brest (Terespol) automobile checkpoint
– Brest Airport border checkpoint
Checkpoints for Grodno:
– Grodno (Kuznica Bialostocka) railway checkpoint
– Grodno Airport border checkpoint
Travelers staying over five days must register with the local police within five days of arrival.
What Are the Belarus Visa Types?
Belarus offers several visa types based on the purpose and duration of stay:
1. Transit Visa (B): For passing through Belarus.
2. Short-Term Visa (C): Valid up to 90 days for purposes like business, sports events, tourism, private visits, study, employment, humanitarian programs, and journalistic activities.
3. Long-Term Visa (D): Valid up to one year. This covers similar purposes to the short-term visa plus employment and journalistic activities.
Each visa type allows for single, double, or multiple entries depending on your travel needs.
What Documents Are Required for a Belarus Visa?
Applicants must present various documents at the local Consular Section or representative office:
- Visa application form: Complete without leaving any blank spaces. Application Form
- Passport photo: Size 35×45 mm, showing a full face.
- Valid passport: Must extend at least 90 days beyond departure, with two blank visa pages.
- Original letter of invitation: Must include signature and seal of the inviting entity.
- Medical insurance policy: Valid for the stay with minimum coverage of €10,000.
Additional documents vary based on the visa type and purpose:
For Short-Term Visa:
– Business: Original visa support letter from a legal entity.
– Private: Invitation from the Citizenship and Migration Department.
– Medical treatment: Contract with a Belarusian healthcare institution.
– Tourism: Letter from a Belarusian tourist company or resort.
For Long-Term Visa:
– Business: Visa support letter and proof of necessity for multiple visits.
– Private: Document proving property ownership or letter from a religious association.
Where to Submit a Belarus Visa Application?
Applications should be submitted to the following:
- Consular sections of Belarus.
- Diplomatic representative offices of Belarus.
- Consular Centre at Minsk Airport (if no representative office in the home country).
Visa Processing and Fees
Processing takes up to five working days after submission. Fees are typically €80, with group applications at €10 per person. Special fees apply to certain nationalities and urgent applications as follows:
- Urgent processing within two days: A 100% surcharge.
- From countries without a Belarusian mission: A 50% surcharge.
- At Minsk National Airport: Usually double the standard tariff.
Children under 14 years are exempt from visa fees.
Getting a Visa-On-Arrival
Travelers can obtain a visa-on-arrival at Minsk National Airport by submitting the application at least 3 business days prior for short-term visas and 5 business days for long-term visas through the Foreign Admissions Division located at the airport.
Address:
Foreign Admissions Division,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Airport Minsk,
Minsk, 220054.
Phone: +375 17 279 20 58
How to Apply for a Belarus Visa from the USA?
US citizens can apply at:
- Embassy of Belarus in the US
- Consulate General of Belarus in New York
Those applying by mail must include a stamped return envelope addressed to themselves.
How Can UK Citizens Apply for a Belarus Visa?
UK citizens must submit their application at the Embassy of the Republic of Belarus in the United Kingdom either in person or via a visa service company.
Conclusion
Applying for a Belarus visa is a structured process requiring specific documentation and adherence to the rules. Understanding visa types, required documents, fees, and application venues ensures a smooth experience. For comprehensive guidelines and the latest updates, always refer to the official Belarus immigration website.
Still Got Questions? Read Below to Know More
Are there any COVID-19 travel restrictions for entering Belarus?
As of the latest update, Belarus has lifted most of its COVID-19 travel restrictions. However, travelers should always check for the most current information before planning their trip, as rules can change quickly. Here are the key points:
– Entry Requirements: Fully vaccinated travelers do not need to quarantine or present a negative COVID-19 test result. Unvaccinated travelers must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before arriving in Belarus.
– Health Monitoring: It is advised to monitor your health and report any COVID-19 symptoms to local health authorities.
– General Advice: Travelers are encouraged to follow local health guidelines, which might include wearing masks in public places and maintaining social distancing.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to official resources. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus provides comprehensive details on entry requirements and health protocols. According to their website:
“Travelers are advised to regularly check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for updates on travel advisories related to COVID-19.”
For more details, visit the official Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
It’s important to stay informed by consulting official channels like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Embassy or Consulate of Belarus in your home country. These sources ensure you receive reliable and updated information regarding travel and health guidelines.
How do I extend my stay in Belarus beyond 30 days?
If you wish to extend your stay in Belarus beyond 30 days, you need to take specific steps. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Apply for an Extension: You need to apply for an extension at the Citizenship and Migration Department of Belarus. You should do this before your current visa or permit expires.
2. Required Documents: Gather necessary documents such as:
– A valid passport
– A completed application form
– Proof of sufficient financial means
– Reason for extension (e.g., work, study, medical reasons)
– A local address where you are staying
3. Submit Your Application: Visit the local immigration office in Belarus and submit your application and documents in person. They will guide you through any additional steps.
According to the Belarusian Citizenship and Migration Department, “foreign nationals must apply in person at the district office where they reside to extend their stay.” Extensions are typically granted for up to 90 days, but the exact duration depends on your reason for staying.
For more detailed information, visit the Belarus Citizenship and Migration Department’s official website or consult the Belarus Embassy or Consulate in your country for guidance. It is always best to start this process early to avoid any legal issues.
What healthcare options are available for visitors in Belarus?
Visitors to Belarus have access to a range of healthcare options, though it’s important to understand the system and prepare accordingly. Here’s a concise breakdown:
1. Public Healthcare:
– Belarus offers a public healthcare system that is funded by the government. Visitors can access services, but it’s essential to note, “the quality and availability of services might differ from what is expected in home countries.”
– In an emergency, visitors can go to public hospitals and clinics, but it might be necessary to pay for services upfront if you don’t have the appropriate health insurance.
2. Private Healthcare:
– Private medical facilities in Belarus are also available and typically offer a higher standard of care and shorter waiting times. Visitors often find that private clinics have English-speaking staff, which can ease communication barriers. These facilities are equipped with modern equipment and offer various services including general medicine, dental care, and specialist treatments.
3. Health Insurance for Visitors:
– It is highly recommended that visitors obtain comprehensive travel health insurance before visiting Belarus. “Without insurance, medical treatments can be expensively out-of-pocket.” Ensure your policy covers not only emergency care but also possible medical evacuation if necessary.
For further detailed information on healthcare for visitors in Belarus, you can visit the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus at MFA Belarus.
Understanding these options will better prepare you for any medical needs while visiting Belarus. Always carry your insurance documents and know the locations of nearby medical facilities.
Can I work in Belarus with a tourist visa?
No, you cannot work in Belarus with a tourist visa. A tourist visa is given to people who visit Belarus for a short time to sightsee, visit friends or family, or attend events. It does not allow you to engage in paid work or any type of employment activities.
To work legally in Belarus, you need to obtain a work visa (Type B) or a temporary residence permit for employment. The steps to get a work visa usually include:
– Securing a job offer from a company in Belarus.
– The employer obtaining a work permit on your behalf.
– Applying for a work visa at a Belarusian consulate or embassy with the required documents such as your passport, application form, and the employer’s work permit.
For more detailed information, you can visit the official website of the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus: Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“Belarusian laws are very strict about the type of activities a tourist visa holder can engage in. Working without the proper visa can lead to fines, deportation, and bans on entering the country in the future.”
If you are planning to work in Belarus, ensure that you start the process early and have all the necessary documents to avoid legal issues.
What happens if I overstay my visa in Belarus?
Overstaying your visa in Belarus can lead to several immediate and long-term consequences.
Firstly, if you overstay your visa, you may face a fine. The amount of the fine can vary, but typically ranges from about 2 to 50 base units. According to Belarusian law, “a base unit is a standard for fines and other fees” and as of now, 1 base unit equals 32 Belarusian rubles. Here’s a link to the official State Border Committee of the Republic of Belarus for more information.
Secondly, overstaying could result in deportation and a ban on re-entry. Belarusian authorities have the right to deport individuals who have overstayed their visas and may impose on them a re-entry ban, which can last up to five years. This means you won’t be allowed back into Belarus for a specified period.
Lastly, overstaying your visa can affect future visa applications. When you apply for visas in the future, not only for Belarus but also for other countries, your previous overstay might be taken into consideration, potentially leading to the refusal of your visa application. For more detailed information, you can visit the Official Immigration Portal of the Republic of Belarus which provides comprehensive guidance on immigration rules and regulations for Belarus.
Always ensure to follow visa regulations and if you foresee any issues, contact the Belarusian authorities or your consulate for advice well before your visa expires.
Learn Today:
Glossary of Immigration Terms
1. Visa-Free Travel: The status allowing nationals of certain countries to enter another country without obtaining a visa, typically for short stays. For example, citizens of Argentina can stay in Belarus visa-free for up to 90 days.
2. Transit Visa (B): A short-term visa allowing travelers to pass through a country en route to another destination. In Belarus, this type of visa is necessary for individuals needing to traverse the country to reach another location.
3. Long-Term Visa (D): A visa valid for up to one year, allowing holders to stay in the country for extended periods for purposes like employment, study, or other activities, with multiple entries if required.
4. Visa-On-Arrival: A visa that can be obtained upon arrival at the point of entry rather than prior to travel. For instance, travelers can apply for a Belarus visa-on-arrival at Minsk National Airport with prior notice.
5. Invitation Letter: A document provided by a host in the destination country, required as part of the visa application process. In Belarus, this letter is necessary for various visa types, including business and private visits.
This Article In A Nutshell:
Travelers to Belarus often need a visa, but there are many visa-free programs. Nationals from countries such as Russia, Ukraine, and most EU countries can enter without a visa under specific conditions. Always check the latest requirements before traveling to avoid any complications.
— By VisaVerge.com
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