Travel Guide: Flying From Usa To Belarus

If you're planning a trip to Belarus, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Belarus, recommending U.S. citizens to avoid travelling to the country due to safety concerns related to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. However, if you choose to travel, you will need to obtain a Belarusian visa from the Embassy and ensure your passport meets the necessary requirements. There are no direct flights from the U.S. to Belarus, so you will need to take a connecting flight, with popular options including flights via Warsaw, Vilnius, and Istanbul.

Visa requirements for US citizens

US citizens wishing to travel to Belarus should be aware that the US Department of State has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory against going to the country. This is due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential for civil unrest, and the risk of detention. The US Embassy in Minsk has also suspended all consular services, and the ability to assist US citizens in the country is limited. US citizens in Belarus have been advised to depart immediately.

If you are still considering travelling to Belarus, you will need to obtain a visa. This can be done by submitting the following documents to the Embassy of the Republic of Belarus:

• Completed visa application form: This should be filled out in legible handwriting or typing, in English, Russian, or Belarusian. The purpose of the visit should be specified in detail, and all answers should be complete and logically consistent. The form must be signed by the applicant personally; otherwise, the application may be refused.
• One colour photograph: This should be no older than 6 months old, sized 35 x 45 mm, with a full-face view without sunglasses, hat, or other head covering (unless for ethnic or religious reasons). The background should be plain, evenly lit, and light-coloured, with no corrugation or ink allowed.
• Original passport: The passport must be valid for at least 90 days after the expected departure date from Belarus, contain a photograph of the owner, and have at least two blank pages intended for visas. If the applicant is under 18, a copy of their full Birth Certificate and copies of their parents' passports are also required.
• Visa support documents: Depending on the type of visa required (short-term or long-term), additional documents may be necessary.
• Health insurance: This should include the name, address, and phone number of the insurance company, the full name of the insured, a validity area that includes Belarus, an insurance period covering the entire stay in Belarus, and insurance coverage of at least 10,000 Euros.
• Envelope: When applying by post, a pre-paid envelope of a specified size must be included.

The regular visa processing time is 5 business days, and the fee is non-reimbursable in the case of a denial. It is recommended that you apply for your visa no earlier than six months before your visit and that you do not make any irrevocable travel plans before obtaining your visa.

It is important to note that US citizens are unlikely to be allowed entry to Belarus over a land border, even with a valid visa. Air travel between Belarus and the US also involves passing through a third country, such as Warsaw or Vilnius, as there are no direct commercial flights between the two countries.

Recommended vaccinations and health insurance

When travelling to Belarus, it is important to consider your health and safety. Here are some recommendations for vaccinations and health insurance to help you prepare for your trip:

Vaccinations:

It is recommended that travellers to Belarus consult a medical professional for specific advice regarding vaccinations and their individual needs. However, according to Travelvax, there is a moderate risk of Hepatitis A and section B in Belarus, so vaccination is recommended. Additionally, the risk of typhoid is moderate, especially for travellers going beyond typical tourist routes, and rabies is also a concern for those at high risk of animal bites or planning outdoor activities. The influenza vaccine is also recommended for travel during the Northern Hemisphere winter (November to April).

Health Insurance:

It is highly recommended that US citizens travelling to Belarus purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen events or emergencies. The war in neighbouring Ukraine and unpredictable weather conditions can cause disruptions to travel plans, and the cost of healthcare in Belarus can be high. Travel insurance typically covers medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, baggage loss or delay, and emergency assistance services. When choosing a travel insurance plan, consider the following:

• Coverage: Opt for a policy that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, baggage loss, and travel delays.
• Policy limits: Ensure the limits are sufficient to cover potential expenses, such as medical treatment and emergency evacuation.
• Exclusions: Carefully review any exclusions or limitations, especially regarding pre-existing conditions and high-risk activities.
• Cost: Compare prices while considering the coverage and benefits offered.
• Customer reviews and reputation: Research the insurer's reputation, customer reviews, and claim handling process.

Cheapest flights to Belarus from the USA

When searching for the cheapest flights to Belarus from the USA, it is important to note that there are no direct flights between the two countries. However, there are several options for flights with one or more stops.

Popular Routes and Airlines

The most popular routes from the USA to Belarus include flights from New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Washington to Minsk, the capital of Belarus. Other popular destinations in Belarus include Gomel and Vitebsk.

The most popular airlines flying from the USA to Belarus include Delta Air Lines and Azerbaijan Airlines. Other airlines that fly to Belarus include Uzbekistan Airways, Azimuth Airlines, Red Wings Airlines, and Severstal Air Company.

Prices and Booking Tips

Prices for flights from the USA to Belarus can vary depending on the season and demand. Generally, the cheapest time to fly to Belarus is in February, while the most expensive month to fly is December. To get the best deals on flights, it is recommended to book in advance and be flexible with your travel dates.

• New York City to Minsk: USD 1526 (cheapest option)
• Round-trip flights to Belarus: between USD 488 and USD 515
• One-way flights from Istanbul to Minsk: starting at USD 254
• Minsk to Boston: starting at USD 7662.50

When booking your flight, consider using online tools that allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines and travel agents. You can also sign up for price alerts to be notified when prices drop or rise. Additionally, booking your flight as part of a vacation package that includes hotel and car rental can sometimes result in significant savings.

Recommended airlines for travel to Belarus

When it comes to finding the best airline for your trip to Belarus, you have a variety of options to choose from. Here are some recommended airlines to consider:

Azerbaijan Airlines

Azerbaijan Airlines offers affordable flights to Belarus, with prices starting as low as $254 for a one-way trip and $488 for a round trip. They provide flights from Istanbul to Minsk International Airport, as well as from Dubai International Airport to Minsk. Azerbaijan Airlines is a great option for those looking for economical airfare without compromising on comfort and convenience.

Scandinavian Airlines

Scandinavian Airlines, also known as SAS, is a reputable carrier that offers flights to Belarus with connections in European cities like Copenhagen, Oslo, and Amsterdam. They provide services to various destinations in the United States, such as Boston, New York, and Chicago. By choosing SAS, you can enjoy a seamless travel experience with convenient connections.

Other Recommended Airlines

Depending on your specific travel plans and preferences, you may also consider the following airlines:

• Lufthansa: Offering flights to Belarus with connections in Frankfurt, Germany.
• Swiss International Air Lines: Providing services to Belarus with a layover in Zurich, Switzerland.
• LOT Polish Airlines: A great option for travelling between the U.S. and Belarus, with Warsaw, Poland as a connecting hub.
• Turkish Airlines: Connect through Istanbul, Turkey, on your way to Belarus and take advantage of their extensive network.

When planning your trip to Belarus, it is always a good idea to compare prices and schedules across different airlines. Additionally, consider using online tools and travel agencies, such as Expedia, to find the best deals and book your flights conveniently. Remember to book in advance and be flexible with your travel dates to increase your chances of finding cheaper airfare.

Current travel advisories for Belarus

The US Department of State currently advises US citizens not to travel to Belarus, giving the country a Level 4 travel advisory. This is due to the country's continued facilitation of Russia's war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential for civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy's limited ability to assist US citizens in the country. The US government has ordered the departure of US government employees and suspended operations at the US Embassy in Minsk, with all consular services currently suspended.

US citizens in Belarus are advised to depart immediately and those who require consular services should try to leave the country as soon as possible and contact a US embassy or consulate in another country. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also issued an Advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibiting US air carriers, airmen and airwomen, and registered aircraft from operating at all altitudes in the Minsk Flight Information Region.

The security environment in Belarus is highly volatile and unpredictable, with potential harassment targeted specifically at foreigners. US citizens are advised to exercise increased vigilance and awareness regarding political and military tensions in the region, and to avoid public demonstrations. Authorities have used force to disperse demonstrators and bystanders, including foreign nationals, may face the possibility of arrest or detention.

US citizens should regularly reevaluate their departure plans in the event of an emergency, as border crossings with neighbouring states are sometimes closed with little notice. Additional closures of crossing points along Belarus' borders with Lithuania, Poland, Latvia, and Ukraine are possible.

Entry requirements

US citizens require a visa to enter Belarus, which must be obtained from a Belarusian Embassy or Consulate overseas. Even with a visa, entry to Belarus over a land border is unlikely. US citizens are also unlikely to be allowed to exit the country via a land border.

All US citizens staying in Belarus for more than five days (not including Sundays or national holidays) are required to register with the local office of the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Ministry of Interior. This includes visa holders and those who enter under the 30-day visa-free regime. Registration must be completed within five days of arrival (excluding Sundays and national holidays) and can be done online.

Frequently asked questions