Belarus Visa
A Belarus visa allows travelers to enter and stay in the country for a specified period and for specific purposes. This guide provides comprehensive information on visa requirements, who needs a visa, different types of visas, and the application process. It also covers special visa-free programs, visa fees, and the required documents for applying for a Belarus visa.
Who Needs a Visa for Belarus?
Most travelers to Belarus require a visa, but some countries are exempt due to visa-free travel programs for tourism or business purposes. Here are the visa-free countries:
Visa-Free Countries
- Unlimited Stay: Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan.
- Up to 90 Days: Argentina, Brazil, Israel, Mongolia, Venezuela.
- Up to 30 Days: Cuba, Ecuador, Montenegro, People’s Republic of China, Qatar, Turkey, UAE.
- 30-Days Visa-Free Through Minsk Airport: All EU countries, Albania, Andorra, Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, United States, and others.
Diplomats
Holders of diplomatic passports from countries like Bangladesh, Vietnam, India, Iran, and others can also enter Belarus visa-free.
Belarus Visa Types
Belarus offers three main visa types:
- Transit Visa (Type B): For transiting through Belarus to another country.
- Short-Term Visa (Type C): Valid for up to 90 days, for business, tourism, sports, or cultural events.
Long-Term Visa (Type D): Valid for up to 1 year, for business, study, or other longer-term activities.
Visas can also be categorized based on the number of entries:
- Single-Entry Visa: Allows one entry into Belarus.
- Double-Entry Visa: Allows two entries.
- Multiple-Entry Visa: Allows multiple entries within the visa’s validity period.
Required Documents for a Belarus Visa
To apply for a Belarus visa, you’ll need the following documents:
- Visa Application Form: Complete the form without leaving any blanks.
- Passport Photo: A 35×45 mm photo showing your full face against a light background.
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 90 days beyond your departure from Belarus and have at least two blank pages.
- Original Letter of Invitation: Signed and sealed by the inviting party (for business purposes).
- Medical Insurance Policy: With a minimum coverage of 10,000 euros for the entire stay.
- Additional Documents: Depending on the purpose of your visit, you might need other supporting documents.
Where to Apply for a Belarus Visa?
Submit your Belarus visa application at one of the following locations:
- Consular Sections: In your country of residence.
- Diplomatic Representative Offices: If there is no consular section in your country.
- Consular Centre at Minsk Airport: For countries without a Belarusian representative office.
Belarus Visa Application Process
Once you know where to apply, follow these steps:
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the form with accurate information.
- Gather the Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents for the visa application.
- Make an Appointment: Some consulates require an appointment for submission.
- Attend the Visa Interview: Answer questions about your intended travel purpose.
Belarus Visa Processing Time
A Belarus visa application can take up to five business days to process, but it may vary depending on the circumstances.
Belarus Visa Fees
Visa fees for Belarus vary based on the visa type and the number of entries. Here is a general breakdown:
- Individual Visa Applications: €80
- Group Visa Applications: €10 per person
- Urgent Visa Applications: Subject to a surcharge of 100%
- Short-Term Visa (Type C): €25 for single entry, €35 for double entry, and €80 for multiple entries.
- Long-Term Visa (Type D): €80
Belarus Visa-On-Arrival
Belarus offers a visa-on-arrival option at the Minsk National Airport. To apply, submit your application at least 3 business days before arrival for short-term visas and at least 5 business days before arrival for long-term visas.
Belarus Visa from USA and UK
US citizens can apply for a Belarus visa at the Embassy of Belarus in the US or the Consulate General of Belarus in New York. UK citizens can apply at the Embassy of the Republic of Belarus in the UK. Be sure to include a stamped return envelope with your address and tracking number if you apply by mail.
With this guide, you should have all the information needed to apply for a Belarus visa. Good luck with your application and have a great trip to Belarus!