Visa Processing Time For Belarus: How Long?

The time it takes to get a visa for Belarus depends on several factors, including the type of visa, the nationality of the applicant, and the specific requirements of the Belarusian authorities. Here's an overview of the process and the typical timeframe for obtaining a Belarusian visa.

According to the official sources, the standard processing time for a Belarusian visa is 5 working days, and expedited processing can be requested for urgent cases, reducing the waiting time to 2 working days. This applies to visas obtained from Belarusian diplomatic missions, such as embassies and consulates. However, it's important to note that the consular officer has the discretion to extend the processing time in certain cases.

For US citizens, the situation is a bit more complex. Due to the volatile political situation and tensions in the region, the US government advises against traveling to Belarus. While American passport holders can obtain a Belarusian visa from a Belarusian Embassy or Consulate, they may encounter difficulties entering or exiting the country over land borders. Air travel between Belarus and neighboring countries like Russia may be subject to specific regulations, and it is recommended to check for the latest updates before planning a trip.

It's worth noting that citizens of certain countries, such as Albania, Argentina, Brazil, China, and the United Arab Emirates, are exempt from obtaining a visa for Belarus for a specified duration. Additionally, Belarus has introduced visa-free travel programs and digital visas to facilitate tourism and economic development.

Processing time: 5 working days (2 days for urgent applications)

The processing time for a Belarusian visa is typically 5 working days from the date of application. However, for those in need of an urgent visa, the processing time can be expedited to just 2 working days. This shorter processing time comes at an additional cost, which is equal to the visa fee.

To obtain a visa to Belarus, applicants must submit the following documents to an entry visa issuing authority:

• A duly completed visa application form
• One photograph (35x45 mm, made no earlier than 6 months prior to submitting, full face, with the size of the face covering nearly 70-80% of the photograph)
• A foreign travel document (passport)
• Visa support documents (e.g. a formal request, an invitation letter, proof of accommodation, etc.)
• Medical insurance covering at least €10,000
• Proof of payment of the consular fee

It is important to note that additional documents may be requested by the consular officer, and the processing time may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the application. The consular officer has the right to reduce the number of entries and the validity of the visa, as well as increase the term of visa processing if needed.

For those who are citizens of certain countries, such as Albania, Argentina, Brazil, China, Cuba, and more, a visa may not be required for a stay of up to a certain number of days. Additionally, Belarus offers several visa-free travel programs for tourists, allowing those who would normally need a visa to visit the country under a simplified procedure.

Visa types: transit, short-term, and long-term

Belarus offers three types of visas: transit (B), short-term (C), and long-term (D). The type of visa you need depends on the purpose and duration of your visit.

Transit Visas

Transit visas are valid for up to one year and allow travellers to stay in Belarus for up to two days each time they pass through the country.

Short-Term Visas

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

Long-Term Visas

Long-term visas are typically valid for 90 days to five years and allow multiple entries into Belarus. They are suitable for frequent business travellers and private travellers who wish to stay in the country for an extended period.

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

• A duly filled-out and signed application form
• A recent passport-sized photograph (3.5 cm by 4.5 cm, made no earlier than 6 months prior to submission) with the applicant's face covering 70-80% of the photograph
• A 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 (e.g., a formal request, invitation letter, proof of accommodation, etc.)
• Medical insurance valid for Belarus and covering the applicant for at least €10,000
• Proof of payment of the visa fee (applicants under 14 are exempt)

The standard processing time for visa applications is five working days, and urgent applications can be processed within two working days. The visa fee for all types of visas is €60, with additional fees for expedited processing or obtaining the visa at Minsk National Airport.

Visa fee: €60 (exemptions for some nationalities)

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Required documents: application form, photograph, passport, supporting documents, medical insurance, proof of fee payment

To enter Belarus, most foreign nationals will need a visa. However, citizens of certain countries are exempt from this requirement. These include Albania, Argentina, Brazil, China, Cuba, Ecuador, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and several others.

For those who do need a visa, the following documents are required:

Application Form

The application form for a Belarusian visa must be duly filled in and signed by the applicant. This is the first step in the visa application process and is necessary for the authorities to collect the basic information they need to process your visa.

Photograph

You will need to provide one recent passport-sized photograph (3.5cm by 4.5cm) taken no earlier than six months before submitting your application. The applicant's face should cover 70-80% of the photograph.

Passport

Your passport should be valid for at least 90 days after your intended stay in Belarus and have at least two blank pages. This is a standard requirement for visa applications, as the passport serves as your primary identification document when travelling internationally.

Supporting Documents

Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may need to provide additional supporting documents. These could include a formal request, an invitation letter, proof of accommodation, judicial summons, a job offer, or other relevant documents. These documents help provide context for your trip and demonstrate your reasons for visiting Belarus.

Medical Insurance

You must provide proof of medical insurance that is valid in Belarus and provides coverage of at least €10,000. This can be from Belgosstrakh, Eximgarant of Belarus, or any foreign insurance company. The insurance is meant to protect you financially in case of unexpected medical emergencies during your stay in Belarus.

Proof of Fee Payment

You will need to pay a visa fee and provide confirmation of this payment as part of your application. The standard fee for all types of visas is €60, although there are exemptions for certain individuals, such as foreigners under the age of 14. Additionally, Belarus has reduced the visa fee to €35 for citizens of specific European countries.

Visa-free entry: possible for some nationalities and under certain conditions

Belarus offers visa-free entry for certain nationalities, allowing visitors to stay in the country for a specified period without obtaining a visa in advance. This option is available to citizens of a number of countries and is an excellent option for those who qualify.

The duration of visa-free stay varies depending on the nationality of the visitor and the purpose of their trip. For instance, citizens of particular countries may be permitted to enter Belarus without a visa for short stays of up to 30 days. However, the visa-free period can differ based on factors such as the traveller's country of origin and their port of entry.

To qualify for visa-free entry, eligible travellers must fulfil specific requirements. These typically include possessing a valid passport, demonstrating sufficient funds to cover their stay, and providing a return ticket that indicates their intention to depart within the visa-free period. It is important to note that visa-free entry is often designated for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

It is advisable to refer to official government sources or contact the Belarusian embassy or consulate in your country for the most current information regarding visa-free entry. By understanding the eligibility criteria and ensuring compliance with all necessary requirements, visitors from eligible countries can conveniently enter Belarus without encountering visa-related complexities.

Frequently asked questions