Transit Visa Requirements: Belarus To Poland

Belarus issues transit visas to foreign travellers passing through the country on their way to another destination. These visas are valid for up to one year and allow a maximum stay of two days each time the traveller passes through Belarus.

Poland is a member of the Schengen Area, and as such, has implemented the Schengen Visa Policy. This means that Belarusians require a Schengen Visa to enter Poland. The Schengen Visa is valid for up to 90 days and can be used for one, two, or multiple entries.

Therefore, Belarusians require a transit visa to enter Poland.

Belarusians travelling to Poland for tourism or other private visits

Short-Term Visa (C)

Short-term visas are suitable for private travellers on family business and are valid for up to 90 days. They can be single-entry, double-entry or multiple-entry visas. Tourists usually receive a short-term group visa through their travel agency.

Long-Term Visa (D)

Long-term visas are suitable for private travellers wishing to stay longer in the country and are valid for 90 days to five years. They allow multiple entries to Belarus.

Transit Visa (B)

Transit visas are valid for up to one year and allow travellers to stop in Belarus for two days when passing through the country to another destination.

Application Process

To obtain a visa, applicants must submit the following documents:

• Application Form duly filled in and signed by the applicant
• One recent passport-sized photograph (3.5cm by 4.5cm, made not earlier than 6 months prior to submitting), with the applicant's face covering 70-80% of the photograph
• Passport (valid for at least 90 days after the intended stay and with at least two blank pages)
• Supporting documents (depending on the purpose of the visit: a formal request, an invitation letter, proof of accommodation, judicial summons, a job offer, etc.)
• Medical insurance from Belarus or a foreign insurance company (valid for Belarus and covering the applicant for at least €10,000)
• Proof of paying the visa fee

Visa Fee

The standard visa fee is €80. However, citizens of certain countries, including Belarus, are exempt from paying the visa fee based on the Visa Facilitation Agreement signed between Belarus and the EU.

Belarusians travelling to Poland to study, for sport or cultural events or activities

Belarusians travelling to Poland for study, sport or cultural events or activities will need to apply for a visa. The type of visa required will depend on the purpose and duration of the trip.

Short-Term Schengen Visa

A Short-Term Schengen Visa is required for individuals planning to stay in Poland or other Schengen countries for no more than 90 days in any 180-day period. This visa is also required for those transiting through the Schengen territory by train, car, or plane. The visa can be issued for one, two, or multiple entries and is valid for a maximum of five years.

Long-Term National Visa ("D")

If you are planning to stay in Poland for more than 90 days in total during a year, starting from the day of the first entry, you may need to apply for a Long-Term National Visa ("D"). This visa allows you to stay in Poland during the validity period of the visa, which cannot be more than one year. It also gives you the possibility to move around the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Airport Transit Schengen Visa ("A")

If your trip to Poland involves an intermediate landing in Poland on your way to a third country, you will need an Airport Transit Schengen Visa ("A"). This visa allows you to enter and stay only in the transit zone of an international airport in Poland. It does not permit entry into the territory of the Schengen countries or exit from the airport's transit zone.

Required Documents for Visa Application

To apply for a visa, you will need to submit the following documents:

• A filled and signed Visa Application Form
• A valid colour photograph (3.5 x 4.5 cm) taken no earlier than 6 months before submission
• A valid passport issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months after the planned return, and with at least two blank pages
• Copies of passport pages with personal data and any previous Schengen or national visas
• A medical insurance policy valid in all Schengen countries for at least €30,000
• Return ticket or ticket reservation, or other documents confirming your transportation arrangements
• Documents proving financial means for your stay, such as a valid letter from your employer, pension certificate, bank statement, etc.

Please note that additional documents may be required depending on the purpose of your trip. For example, if you are travelling for study purposes, you will need to provide proof of enrolment or participation in a course. If you are participating in a sports event, you will need a letter from the hosting organization.

The processing time for visa applications can vary depending on your citizenship and the specific circumstances of your application. The consulate will make a decision on your visa application within 10 to 15 calendar days, but this period can be extended up to 30 or 45 working days in certain cases.

Additional Information

It is important to note that having a visa does not guarantee entry into Poland. At the border, you may be asked to show proof of compliance with the conditions of entry, such as sufficient funds and return transportation.

For the most up-to-date and accurate information, please refer to the official websites of the Polish and Belarusian governments, as visa requirements and procedures can change over time.

Belarusians travelling to Poland to visit close relatives, family members or friends

The visa application process requires the following documents:

• A filled and signed visa application form
• A recent passport-sized photograph (3.5 x 4.5 cm, taken no earlier than 6 months before submission)
• A valid passport (valid for at least 90 days after the intended stay and with at least two blank pages)
• Supporting documents (e.g. a formal request, an invitation letter, proof of accommodation, etc.)
• Medical insurance valid in Poland and covering the applicant for at least €30,000
• Proof of paying the visa fee (standard fee is €80)

The processing time for a visa application is typically within 15 calendar days from the date of submission. In some cases, this period may be extended up to 30 or even 60 calendar days if further scrutiny is required or additional documents need to be submitted.

Belarusians travelling to Poland as part of official delegations

To obtain a visa, individuals must submit the following documents:

• A duly filled-out and signed application form
• A recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, taken no earlier than 6 months prior to submission)
• A valid passport (validity of at least 90 days after the intended stay with a minimum of two blank pages)
• Supporting documents (e.g. formal request, invitation letter, proof of accommodation, etc.) depending on the purpose of the visit
• Medical insurance from an approved provider
• Proof of payment of the visa fee

The time taken to process a visa application is typically 5 working days, but urgent applications can be processed within 2 working days. The standard visa fee is €60, but this is reduced to €35 for citizens of certain countries, including Poland.

It is important to note that the requirements and fees for obtaining a visa may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the traveller and their country of origin. Therefore, it is advisable to check the official websites of the relevant diplomatic missions or consular institutions for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Other travel purposes for Belarusians going to Poland

Belarusians travelling to Poland for purposes other than tourism may need to obtain a visa, depending on the specifics of their trip. Here are some common travel purposes and the relevant visa requirements for Belarusians entering Poland:

Business Travel

Belarusian citizens travelling to Poland for business purposes may require a visa, depending on the length of their stay and the nature of their business activities. Poland is a member of the Schengen area, which allows short-term stays of up to 90 days without a visa for citizens of specific countries. However, for longer stays or certain business activities, a visa may be necessary. It is important to check the specific requirements based on the nature of the business travel.

Education and Cultural Exchange

Belarusian students or individuals participating in cultural exchange programs in Poland may need to obtain a student visa or a cultural exchange visa, respectively. The requirements and application processes for these visas can vary, so it is essential to consult the official Polish government websites or diplomatic missions for detailed information.

Medical Treatment

If a Belarusian citizen is travelling to Poland for medical treatment, they may need to obtain a medical visa or provide proof of their medical condition and planned treatment in Poland. It is important to note that healthcare standards in Poland may differ from those in Belarus, and evacuation to another country for specialized treatment may be necessary in some cases.

Sports and Athletic Competitions

Athletes or sports teams from Belarus travelling to Poland for competitions or training camps may require a sports visa. The specific requirements and application process for this type of visa should be verified with the Polish embassy or consulate. Additionally, it is important to be aware of any COVID-19-related restrictions or requirements that may be in place for athletes and support staff.

Family Visits

Belarusian citizens visiting family members or friends in Poland may be eligible for a short-term visa exemption for stays of up to a certain duration. However, this may depend on the specific regulations and agreements between the two countries. It is advisable to consult the official sources or Polish diplomatic missions for detailed information on the requirements and application process.

When travelling to Poland for any purpose, it is important for Belarusian citizens to have valid travel documents, including a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. Additionally, they should be prepared to provide evidence supporting the purpose of their trip, such as invitation letters, proof of accommodation, or other relevant documents. It is always recommended to check for the most up-to-date information on travel requirements and restrictions before planning a trip to Poland or any other international destination.

Frequently asked questions