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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Belarus - level 4: do not travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Do not travel to Belarus due to the Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus. U.S. citizens in Belarus should depart immediately.

On February 28, 2022, the Department of State ordered the departure of U.S. government employees and the suspension of operations of the U.S. Embassy in Minsk. All consular services, routine and emergency, are suspended until further notice.  U.S. citizens in Belarus who require consular services should try to leave the country as soon as possible and contact a U.S. embassy or consulate in another country.

Due to Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine and given the heightened volatility and unpredictable nature of the regional security environment, do not travel to Belarus.  Potential harassment targeted specifically at foreigners is also possible. 

Exercise increased awareness and vigilance regarding political and military tensions in the region.  U.S. citizens are advised to avoid public demonstrations.  Authorities have used force to disperse demonstrators, including those peacefully demonstrating. Bystanders, including foreign nationals, may face the possibility of arrest or detention.

U.S. citizens should regularly reevaluate possible departure plans in the event of an emergency. Border crossings with neighboring states are sometimes closed with little notice. Additional closures of crossing points along Belarus’ borders with Lithuania, Poland, Latvia, and Ukraine are possible.

Country Summary:  Belarusian authorities have detained tens of thousands of individuals, including U.S. citizens, for alleged affiliations with opposition parties and alleged participation in political demonstrations. U.S. citizens in the vicinity of demonstrations have been arrested. Some have been victims of harassment and/or mistreatment by Belarusian officials. Belarusian authorities have targeted individuals associated with independent and foreign media. On May 23, 2021, Belarusian authorities forced the landing of a commercial aircraft transiting Belarusian airspace in order to arrest an opposition journalist who was a passenger.

Belarus enforces special restrictions on dual U.S.-Belarusian nationals and may refuse to acknowledge dual U.S.-Belarusian nationals’ U.S. citizenship, including denying or delaying U.S. consular assistance to detained dual nationals.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an Advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibiting all U.S. air carriers and commercial operators, U.S. airmen and airwomen, and U.S. registered aircraft from operating at all altitudes in the Minsk Flight Information Region (UMMV). For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Belarus.

If you decide to travel to Belarus: 

• Have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government assistance. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Monitor local and international media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans based on the new information.
• Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Belarus.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

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Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy minsk.

46 Starovilenskaya St. Minsk 220002, Belarus Telephone: +(375) (17) 210-1283 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(375) (29) 676-0134 Fax: +(375) (17) 334-7853 [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

30 Day Visa Free Travel

U.S. passport holders traveling to Belarus via Minsk International Airport may enter visa-free for up to 30 days (the 30-day limit includes the day of arrival and the day of departure) for tourism or business.

Visa-Free Travel Requirements

U.S. citizens wishing to enter Belarus for 30 days without a visa must:

• Hold a valid passport;
• Enter and exit Belarus via Minsk International Airport;
• Arrive from and depart to any country other than the Russian Federation;
• Show evidence of finances in the form of cash, credit cards or travelers checks equivalent to 25 Euros for each day of stay;
• Show evidence of a medical insurance policy with at least 10,000 Euros of coverage valid throughout Belarus. Such a policy may be purchased at the airport upon arrival; please see the Embassy of Belarus website for information about current fees; and
• Register with the local office of the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Ministry of the Interior for stays longer than five working days (see below).

The Visa-free option is not available to you if:

You are coming directly to or from the Russian Federation.

You enter and exit Belarus anywhere other than Minsk International Airport.

You plan to stay longer than 30 days.

You are entering on a diplomatic or official passport.

Travelers who stay longer than 30 days or who violate the visa-free registration rules can face administrative action which may include a fine of up to €550, deportation, and prohibition from entering Belarus in the future.

Visitors to Belarus may request a visa before traveling from the Embassy of Belarus. Instructions for obtaining a visa are available on the Embassy of Belarus website . Please note that the Government of Belarus has the authority to deny entry to any foreign visitor whether or not he/she has a visa.

Travelling between Russia and Belarus 

Car and Train Travel: Belarus and Russia do not have international passport control capabilities at the land border. Therefore, U.S. citizens and other foreigners, even those holding valid visas, may not cross the Belarusian – Russian border by car, train, or on foot. Only Russian and Belarusian passport holders may transit the land border. 

Air Travel: U.S. citizens require a visa in order to travel by air between Belarus and Russia. Regulations regarding travel between Russia and Belarus may change unexpectedly. Even if you already hold a visa, before planning a trip we recommend you visit the Embassy of Belarus website and the website of the Embassy of the Russian Federation for the latest information.

Registration

All U.S. citizens staying in Belarus for more than five business days are required to register with the local office of the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Ministry of Interior (formerly OVIR). This requirement applies to visa holders and those who enter Belarus under the 30-day visa-free regime. Please keep in the mind the following:

• Registration must be completed within five business days of arrival.
• If you are staying in a hotel, the hotel will complete the registration for you.
• If you have a short term rental of an apartment or house, be sure to check with the rental agent; they may be able to assist you.
• If you are staying in a private home, you must complete the registration process yourself.
• If you fail to register or if you remain in Belarus longer than 30 days you will face administrative action which may include a fine of up to €550, deportation, and prohibition from entering Belarus in the future.
• Foreign citizens entering on a tourist or business visa may not stay in Belarus for more than 90 days total during any calendar year, including dates of entry and departure.

Visit the Belarusian Embassy web site for the latest information regarding entry requirements for traveling to Belarus.

Transiting Schengen Countries : 

Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country.

You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return airline ticket .

For additional details about travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our Schengen page .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Belarus on a 30-day visit. Long-term residents (those spending more than 90 days a year in Belarus) or students must obtain an HIV/AIDS test in Belarus and submit the results to the Department of Citizenship and Migration when applying for an extension of stay or residency. We recommend you verify this information with the Embassy of Belarus before you travel.

You will find information on  dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.

Demonstrations intended to be peaceful can sometimes become confrontational. For this reason, it is recommended that U.S. citizens avoid all demonstrations and protest gatherings.

• Demonstrations, both organized and spontaneous, are infrequent in Belarus. Localized street disturbances relating to political events are more likely in Minsk or larger cities than in smaller towns and villages.
• Authorities have used force to disperse demonstrators, including those who are peacefully demonstrating.
• Bystanders, including foreign nationals, may face the possibility of arrest or detention . 

Foreigners may be placed under surveillance . Hotel rooms, telephones, and fax machines may be monitored, and personal possessions in hotel rooms may be searched. 

Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest may result in problems with authorities; these sites are not always clearly marked and application of these restrictions is subject to interpretation. 

Crime:  Belarus has a low rate of street crime. Violent crime against foreigners is rare; criminals have been known to use force if met with resistance from victims. 

• Common street crime, such as mugging and pickpocketing, occurs most frequently near public transportation venues, near hotels frequented by foreigners, and/or at night in poorly-lit areas.
• Exercise caution when visiting bars, casinos and night clubs, and do not leave your drink unattended. There have been reports of travelers being drugged and subsequently robbed or assaulted while visiting night clubs.
• Prostitutes at hotels may attempt to open hotel room doors in search of customers.
• Local and transnational organized criminal activity exists in Belarus. Most casinos and adult clubs are operated by criminal elements and should be avoided.
• Theft of vehicle parts and car vandalism is common. Sport-utility and luxury vehicles tend to be the most sought-after. Parking in a secure area overnight is highly recommended.

Internet-Dating Schemes and Cyber-Crime: "Internet brides" are advertised on several websites and are not always legitimate. Often, potential suitors in the United States lose thousands of dollars sending money to people they have never met and will never hear from again. In some cases, the foreigner is invited to visit Belarus; the Belarusian “friend” collects money for lodging and transportation expenses and then disappears.

Cyber-crime is well developed in Belarus. Merchandise orders with fraudulent credit cards, ID theft, hacking/blackmail schemes, and advance-fee fraud are gaining in popularity. If doing business electronically with persons or firms in Belarus, proceed with extreme caution.

• Use only ATMs located inside major banks.
• Use of credit and debit cards is not recommended; there have been reports of U.S. citizens having their ATM or credit cards skimmed resulting in fraudulent charges or money stolen from their accounts.
• Be aware that due to a lack of tourism infrastructure in Belarus, transferring funds from abroad, replacing stolen traveler's checks or airline tickets, or canceling credit cards can be difficult in Belarus.

Counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products may be illegal under local law. In addition, bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines.

Sophisticated criminal investigations may be inconclusive because of a lack of resources and/or political will.

We have received reports of harassment of U.S. citizens at border crossings. We recommend that you report any crimes immediately to the local police and to the U.S. Embassy in Minsk.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.  

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police by dialing 102 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +375 17 210 1283. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime that occurs in Belarus. 

The local equivalents to the “911” emergency lines in Belarus are: 101 for Fire and Rescue Squad; 102 for Police; and 103 for Ambulance (Medical Emergency). 

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . 

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. 

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law.  For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website. 

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information. 

Under local law, any agency that detains a foreigner should inform the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) within 24 hours from the time of detention. The MFA, in its turn, must notify the respective embassy as soon as possible. The time of such notifications has varied from several hours to several weeks. Therefore, we recommend that if travelers have a chance to inform friends or relatives about their arrest, they should request that their friends or relatives notify the U.S. Embassy on their behalf as soon as possible.  

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES 

• Belarusian banks provide limited cash withdrawals in Belarusian rubles from major credit cards. Please see notes on cyber-crime, above, regarding the security of ATMs.
• Authorized currency exchange centers are widely available throughout major cities.
• It is a criminal offense to exchange payment in U.S. dollars to firms or individuals without a special license.
• Only a few large firms are licensed to accept U.S. dollars . Travelers are advised to only use widely available licensed exchange locations.
• ATMs are available for use; credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and towns; however use caution (see cyber-crime above).

Identification:

• Carry your passport at all times.
• Police have the authority to stop you and request identification. If you fail to provide your ID, you may be detained by the police until your identity is established.

Radiation: 

The 1986 release of nuclear material from the Chernobyl nuclear station in Ukraine affected Belarus. The city of Minsk was mostly spared, but other areas of Belarus were badly contaminated. Several years of monitoring have shown that radiation levels in Minsk are within internationally acceptable standards, and periodic testing of foodstuffs from various locations in Belarus has not revealed a level of radiation that would be considered harmful.

Marriages in Belarus:

• Consult the U.S. Embassy Minsk website for information on getting married in Belarus .
• Marriages must be performed at a registrar’s office (ZAGS- Office of Matrimonial Acts Registration) to be legally valid in Belarus. 

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: Same-sex relations are not illegal in Belarus, but discrimination against members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTI) community is widespread, and harassment against LGBTI individuals has occurred in the past. For more detailed information about LGBTI rights in Belarus you may review the State Department’s Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2017. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.  

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: In Belarus, many buildings and most public transportation systems are not well adapted for individuals with disabilities. Before visiting Belarus, check ahead with your hotel/destination to learn more about options to accommodate disabled travelers. 

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips . 

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers . 

Medical care in Belarus is neither modern nor easily accessible. Hospitals and medical facilities are below U. S. standards and lack basic supplies. Trauma care is well below U.S. standards; Belarus lacks the level of care and competence to deal with serious injuries.

• Standard U.S. health insurance plans are not accepted in Belarus.
• Ambulances are poorly equipped and unreliable . It is not unusual to wait 30 minutes for an ambulance.
• Consider purchasing medical evacuation insurance prior to traveling to Belarus.
• There are no air ambulance services in Belarus.
• The government requires all visitors show evidence of valid purchase health insurance . You may purchase local health insurance at your point of entry.
• The medical emergency number for Belarus is 103

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.  

Medical Insurance:   The government requires all visitors to purchase local health insurance or show evidence of a policy with international coverage that includes Belarus. You may purchase the local health insurance at the points of entry. If you plan to use international medical insurance purchased outside Belarus, be sure to check with the Embassy of Belarus to be sure your policy is acceptable. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurance coverage .

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover a potential medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication:  

• You must carry your prescription medication in the original packaging
• You should have the written prescription from your doctor.
• You should check with the government of Belarus, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs  to ensure your medication is legal in Belarus. 
• Some common medications in the U.S., such as opioid pain relievers, are illegal in Belarus.
• Belarusian officials have confiscated these drugs from travelers.

The following diseases are prevalent: Tuberculosis (TB) is an increasingly serious health concern in Belarus. For further information, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) information on TB .

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety :  Generally, roads in Belarus are in good condition, but modern cars share the highways with tractors, horse-drawn carts, and pedestrians.

• Driving under the influence is common despite a strict zero-tolerance law.
• Speed bumps are common, even on major streets in large cities.
• If you are involved in an accident, remain at the scene until police arrive unless your personal safety is in danger.
• Drive with caution at all times. Potholes, unlit or poorly lit streets, and dark-clothed pedestrians walking on roads are common dangers.
• Drivers are expected to yield to pedestrians at road signs and intersections not controlled by traffic signals or road police.
• Belarus has a toll system which requires payment when using certain specifically identified roads. Passenger motor vehicles registered outside the Eurasian Customs Union countries (Belarus, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Armenia) must pay for use of a number of  such major roads. Detailed information regarding toll roads, distribution points, and penalties for not paying tolls can be found at Bell Toll website

Traffic Laws:   

• Fines vary for driving under the influence. Those who commit a repeat offence within 365 days of a previous violation may be subject to criminal prosecution and possibly sentenced for to up to six months in prison or up to two years of corrective labor.
• Using hand-held mobile devices while driving is prohibited.

Public Transportation :  When traveling on public transportation of any kind, be wary of pickpocketing and other petty crime. There are several rental car agencies currently operating in Minsk; however, rental-car networks are not well developed.

• Radio-dispatched taxi services are metered, generally reliable, arrive promptly, and usually offer the lowest fare.
• Uber currently operates in Minsk.
• The use of informal, unregistered taxis is not recommended.
• Minsk has a clean, safe, and efficient subway system that reaches outside the city center.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Belarus’ national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Belarus, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Belarus’ Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Belarus .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Useful tips for traveling to Belarus in 2024

By Joan Torres 14 Comments Last updated on March 22, 2024

Despite the war in Ukraine, Belarus is still open to international travelers.

As you may know, tourism in Belarus is kind of in an embryonic stage.

For some reason we don’t know – but probably related to Belarus being a dictatorial regime – Belarussian authorities have never shown any interest in promoting their country as a tourist destination, and proof of that is that getting a visa has always been a tedious, complicated process.

Things, however, are changing and, since they started to liberalize their visa regime at the beginning of 2019, more travelers are deciding who each and every day decide to discover the wonders of White Russia each and every day.

With more than 11,000 lakes and 40% of its territory composed of misty forest, Belarus is a beautiful country to travel to, home to dreamy castles – some of them part of UNESCO – and a majestic capital named Minsk , besides all its WWII-related history.

Moreover, if you are interested in the history of the Soviet Union, you will have a lot to do in Belarus, because nowhere else is as Soviet, not even Transnistria , as the country is filled with endless memorials and symbols that pay tribute to the former Communist regime.

Having said that, this Belarus travel guide contains tips and everything you need to know to travel to Belarus , from visas to top experiences and much, much more!

I also recommend you read: 7 very weird things to do in Belarus

In this Belarus travel guide, you will find:

Table of Contents

• COVID-19 Travel Restriction
• Travel insurance
• How to get in
• Top experiences
• Last European dictatorship
• Culture, language, religion
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Best time to visit
• More information

😷 COVID-19 Travel restrictions for Belarus

There are no COVID restrictions for traveling to Belarus.

Travel Insurance for Belarus with COVID-19 coverage

IATI Insurance  is one of the few providers that offers full Coronavirus coverage, not only when it comes to treatment, but also cancellations costs in case you tested positive before departure. 

Moreover, remember that being in possession of travel with insurance is a must for getting visa on arrival.

Readers of Against the Compass can get an exclusive 5% discount .

🪪 Visa for traveling to Belarus

Note that despite the Ukraine war, you can still get a visa for Belarus as usual.

Belarus is the only European country that presents certain difficulties when it comes to getting a visa.

There are 3 types of tourist visas:

1 – Belarus Visa on arrival (VOA)

Up to 80 nationalities can get a VOA valid for 30 days.

Here you can see the updated list of countries.

However, keep in mind:

The VOA is only available for those who enter and exit through Minsk International Airport

This means that if you wish to travel to Belarus overland, the VOA won’t be available, so you will have to get it the old-fashioned way, at the embassy which, apparently, is a pain in the ass.

Belarus visa requirements (for VOA)

• Proof of funds and, typically, they require what they call 2 base amounts per day, which is 51BYR (around $20).
• Travel Insurance with a minimum medical coverage of 10,000€. Being in possession of travel with insurance is a must for getting visa on arrival. I strongly recommend IATI Insurance . Readers of this blog can get 5% exclusive discount that you can get through this link .

Sometimes they ask for these things, sometimes they don’t.

They did ask for my travel insurance but didn’t ask for proof of funds.

2 – How to get a tourist visa for Belarus at the embassy

Remember that you should only use this option if:

• Your nationality isn’t in this list
• You want to travel to Belarus overland

To give you some idea, what the embassy usually asks for is:

• Passport photo
• Form correctly filled in
• Invitation letter
• Hotel booking (and they don’t accept Booking.com confirmations)

Requirements may vary slightly from embassy to embassy, so I recommend you contact your nearest one for more details. On average, the visa costs 60€ and takes 5 working days.

3 – VOA in Brest and Grodno

Brest and Grodno are two border cities with Poland and they have the peculiarity that they can be visited without a visa as long as:

• You travel to Belarus overland through Poland and use their respective border entries
• You don’t leave the respective region. For example, if you travel to Brest from Poland, this visa is only valid for the Brest region, so you can’t visit Minsk or any other place in the country.
• You don’t spend more than 10 days

To get your visa, you will have to fill a form and you can find more details here

Registering in Belarus

Something that sucks about traveling to Belarus is that you need to register at the police every 5 days. This means that, if you plan to spend 30 days in the country, you will have to register 6 times.

It is an old, nonsense, Soviet rule.

The first time you can easily do it through this link , for free, but then you will have to go to the Department of Citizenship and Migration in Minsk – if you are not in Minsk, ask your hotel – and pay the equivalent of 15€.

It’s a tedious, unnecessary process.

Some hotels – just the good ones – can do it for you.

What happens if you don’t register or miss the deadline?

Welcome to my world.

We missed the second registration deadline, after 10 days, so when we came back to Minsk, we went to the immigration office and the only thing that happened was that we had to pay a fine of just 1 base amount (the Soviet concept) for each day we missed the deadline, so 51 rubles (25.5 + 25.5).

But, what happens if you leave the country without registering?

I don’t really know but at customs, they do ask for it, so you could miss your flight. My advice is that you should register.

🚑 Travel Insurance for Belarus

Proper travel insurance is a must-requirement for getting your visa on arrival in Belarus.

I recommend IATI Insurance :

• All types of plans: from families to backpackers, covers senior citizens too
• Good for up to 1-year trips.
• Readers of this blog can get a 5% exclusive discount

🛫 How to travel to Belarus

Traveling to belarus by land.

As long as you have a valid visa, you can enter Belarus from the following countries, both by train and bus, but the train will always be more epic.

You can’t travel from Russia to Belarus – It’s a bit weird but apparently, between Russia and Belarus there is a treatment similar to the EU, so there are no borders. Russians and Belarussians can cross it freely but, since there is no passport control, foreigners are not allowed to use it.

Traveling to Belarus by plane

Because of the Russian-Ukraine war, European Airlines are not flying to Minsk anymore, but you can still fly from Istanbul (Turkish Airlines) and Dubai (Emirates).

🛖 Tourism in Belarus: Top 5 experiences

1 – visiting soviet minsk.

The most Soviet city in the world is filled with Stalinist buildings and loads of Communist-related stuff. Read my Minsk guide .

2 – Checking out the Stalin Line

What used to be the border between USSR and Europe is today an epic open-air museum where you can see all types of weapons, tanks, and many other surprises.

3 – Wandering around dreamy Belarussian castles

Belarus is also home to dreamy castles, today UNESCO World Heritage sites.

I recommend you visit Mir and Nesvizh castles .

4 – Learning from all the World War II Heritage

From a village burnt by the Nazis to the defensive line of Brest, Belarus suffered greatly in the German invasion and today, the country is filled with many interesting memorials and museums.

5 – Exploring the endless forest and lakes

40% of Belarus is covered by forest and it is home to more than 11,000 lakes, most of them being concentrated in Braslav.

And don’t forget to read the most bizarre attractions to see in Belarus

Belarus, the last European dictatorship

Belarus is today living the most intense protests in the country’s history. Massive demonstrations against dictator Alexander Lukashenko, who is answering a peaceful movement with repression and more repression.

Probably, a travel blog isn’t the right place to talk about politics, but I also believe that having a little knowledge about the political situation in a certain country will help you understand what’s going on when you travel there.

Not sure if you know that Belarus is considered an authoritarian regime, the last dictatorship in Europe and the country with the most long-lasting President.

No press freedom, fraudulent elections, no real separation of powers and the only European country that keeps the death penalty.

Obviously, Belarus isn’t as repressive as China, Turkmenistan or Eritrea , not even close, but in comparison with Europe, it is, and, because of that, it has been always heavily criticized by the West, especially because Belarus prefers Russia as a partner, and depends on Russia for 20% of its exports, , plus all its natural resources.

A very Soviet former Soviet country

Another fact and, in fact, something that makes visiting Belarus particularly appealing, is that it still is a very Soviet country, more than any other former republic.

Actually, the President grew up in a very rural area of Belarus named Mogilev, so he had a strong Soviet education, the reason why, even now, he is very nostalgic and decorates the country with images of Lenin and hammer & sickle logos.

Besides, the state controls 80% of the country’s production, so you can still find collective farms and there is a strong protectionism that bans the entrance of many foreign companies.

They never really abandoned Communism but, you know what?

I won’t be the person who defends Mr. Lukashenko because he is a dictator, yes, but we also have to accept that he has done great things for the country’s economy: the unemployment rate is very low and the country seems very developed, more than any other Soviet country, including Ukraine , where, despite it being a great country to travel, you see a lot of misery.

Read my Moldova travel guide

💬 Culture, language, and religion

It’s mandatory to have a travel insurance for getting visa on arrival in Belarus. I strongly recommend IATI Insurance : COVID-19 coverage + full Belarus coverage + 5% discount BUY IT HERE TO GET YOUR SPECIAL DISCOUNT

Sometimes, it can prove difficult to find a specific characteristic of Belarussian culture, as today, Belarus is a strange mix of all its respective neighbors, but mainly because Belarusian culture has been oppressed for centuries, from when they were part of Lithuania to the Soviet Union, especially during Stalin’s rule.

Because of this, I heard that many Belarussians don’t have a very strong national identity and proof of that is that a significant number would support a potential annexation with Mother Russia.

The Government doesn’t help much either. The President is the most pro-Russian dude ever and I read that, except for a few specific occasions, he never speaks in Belarussian publicly.

However, today, the Belarussian national identity is quickly growing stronger and stronger every day, especially among young Belarussian students, who fight for greater recognition of their culture.

Belarussians are super nice 🙂

By the way, we can’t deny the fact that, in many Eastern European countries, especially Ukraine and Moldova, people look kind of serious at the beginning, sometimes even angry, but it is just the way they are and, when you get to know them, they are very nice.

In Belarus, I was expecting sort of the same thing but everybody I met was very happy and smiley. I was very surprised.

The official language in Belarus is Belarussian, along with Russian.

They are close but different, and I believe they have the same relationship as Spanish with Catalan and Portuguese.

As in their culture, the Belarussian language has also suffered from repression to the extent that Stalin promoted a reform that consisted of removing all those grammatical elements that came from Polish or Lithuanian languages. I don’t know if current Belarussian is still a consequence of that reform.

Most Belarussians belong to the Belarussian Orthodox Church , a union of the Russian Orthodox Church with Belarussian territories.

🍲 Food in Belarus

Belarus is a Slavic country and a former USSR republic and as such, their food is quite similar to their neighbors’.

In fact, in my humblest opinion, their typical dishes are not very different from Ukraine’s, as borsch , dranikis , salo and the local version of varenyky will always be on all menus.

In any case, Belarussian cuisine is heavy, good for winter, and potato seems to be the basis of pretty much any meal.

Actually, I read somewhere that Belarus has the highest consumption of potato per capita in the world.

• Borsch – The famous beetroot soup with sour cream and other vegetables and a Soviet Union classic. They claim it comes originally from Ukraine but it was as available in Belarus as there. I remember one day in a local restaurant, a 12-member family was sitting next to us and each one of them was having a bowl of borsch.
• Dranikis – Potato pancakes, they say this is the most traditional dish in the country. Sometimes it comes with bacon, while others it just serves as a side dish.
• Kletksi – In Russia they call them pelmeni , in Ukraine varenyky , in Poland pierogi , and in Belarus kletski . They change their shape and filing but they are all Eastern European dumplings.

On this page , you can see a more detailed description of food in Belarus.

These are the star dishes but they also have other food which has a stronger Polish or Lithuanian influence, like Zhurek, a black bread soup with animal fat and vegetables.

Belarus travel tip: In cities, something you need to know is that for lunch, most restaurants will offer a business lunch deal for 4-6 rubles, but quantities tend to be small.

💻 Internet and connectivity in Belarus

Did you know that Belarus is an important IT hub in the region?

They actually have what is known as High-Tech-Park , a version of Silicon Valley.

Anyways, this might be the reason why the internet in Minsk is so fast, one of the fastest connections in the continent, and in the rest of the country, it is pretty good.

Almost all cafés have good Wi-Fi and, as for mobile internet, I bought a SIM card at MTS , the mobile company that has an egg as a logo. I think I paid around $10 for a SIM card filled with enough data for 2 weeks.

Get a VPN for traveling in Belarus

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Belarus. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 Belarus travel guide: about money $

In Belarus, they use the Belarussian ruble (BYR) and approximately :

1 USD = 2.52 BYR

If you look on the internet, you will see that the exchange rate they give for 1USD is 25,000BYR, and well, I guess this is the actual exchange rate but recently, the government switched all coins and notes to brand-new ones whose value was divided by 10,000, so all new notes and coins are worth 1, 2, 5, 20, etc.

Credit cards

Belarus is a modern country, so you find ATMs everywhere and credit cards can be used in many places.

Exchanging money is easy as well, you can do it in any bank, but I don’t recall seeing exchange offices as such.

How much does it cost to travel to Belarus?

Visiting Belarus is cheap as per Western Europe standards, but it is more expensive than its cousins Ukraine and Moldova. Some bars and restaurants in Minsk are as expensive as Spain or Italy. 

Here the most typical costs:

• Eating in a local restaurant – 10-15 rubles
• 3-course meal in a good restaurant – From 30 rubles
• Espresso – 2-3 rubles
• Regular beer in a normal bar – 2-3 rubles
• Hostel for backpackers – $8-$10
• Double room in a guest house – $20-$25
• Mid-range hotel – From $30-$40
• Minsk Metro – 0.65 rubles
• Train journey from Minsk to Grodno – From 10 rubles
• Marshrutka journey from Minsk to Stalin Line – 4 rubles

Average daily budget for traveling to Belarus

Bear in mind that this is an average/approximation.

⚠️ Is it safe to travel in Belarus?

Visiting Belarus is as safe as in any other European country, perhaps even safer.

In Minsk at least, everything is so clean and civilized and I don’t recall seeing any antisocial behavior, something very common in any European capital.

What you do need to keep in mind is that Belarus is heavily militarized and you see soldiers everywhere, so be careful when taking pictures.

On the other hand, remember that KGB is still a thing in Belarus – in Minsk you can see the building from outside – and its core function hasn’t changed much since the fall of the USSR, meaning that they are almost as repressive as they used to be, with the tiny difference that today they control the internet as well, so I recommend you always connect with a VPN when you visit Belarus.

Here you can read how to find the best VPN for travel .

🏨 Accommodation in Belarus

Finding accommodation in Belarus isn’t a problem.

For backpackers, you can find several hostel options in Minsk, Grodno, and Brest.

In the rest of the cities, there are no hostels but guesthouses and economical hostels cost around $20-$25 for a double room and tend to be pretty good.

We always tried to rent full apartments.

You can find all options on Booking.com

🛺 How to move around Belarus: transportation

Traveling by public transportation in Belarus is great.

How to travel around Belarus on a Soviet train

From Uzbekistan to Belarus, the Soviet train experience is the same, same train, same system. From Minsk’s station, you can take a train to practically any city, but if your final destination is a village, you may have to take a bus after.

Furthermore, it is very cheap. One train ticket (economical class) from Minsk to Brest costs 13BYR, around $5, for more than 300km.

Belarus travel tip: You can check timings and book your tickets on this page .

How to travel around Belarus by marshrutka

Marshrutka means mini-bus in Russian, something like that, and it is the common way to move around in all Soviet republics. Usually, they tend to be old and pretty packed but in Belarus, they are brand-new and some of them even have Wi-Fi.

It is slightly more expensive than the train but still cheap. We paid 15 rubles (around $7) for the journey between Brest and Grodno, around 250km.

📚 Best books for backpacking in Belarus

Belarus travel guide by bradt.

A super guide, the one I personally bought. Bradt has the most insightful guides and they always focus on off the beaten track countries.

Eastern Europe travel guide by Lonely Planet (2019)

Otherwise, if you are traveling all around the region, you could also get the generic Eastern Europe guide, which includes one chapter about tourism in Belarus.

I also recommend Svetlana Alexiévich

Belarussian writer and Nobel Prize winner. Her books talk about the Soviet Union, but they always have a special focus on Belarussian people. These are the ones I read:

Voices of Chernobyl – Human stories that explain the consequences of Chernobyl.

Boys in Zinc – A book that compiles testimonies from people who were somehow related to the Afghan-Soviet war, from soldiers to prostitutes and mothers of deceased soldiers.

Get a KINDLE! – Buying a Kindle has been one of my best recent acquisitions.

⛅ Best time to visit Belarus

Visiting belarus in winter.

As you may imagine, the whole country is frozen but, if you don’t mind traveling with snow and your only objective is visiting Minsk and any other cities, it should be all right.

Visiting Belarus in summer

It can get hot but nothing extreme. Best time to explore its nature, especially Braslav Lakes.

Visiting Belarus in spring and autumn

For me, autumn is the best season, especially because of the autumn colors, but spring should be good as well.

I traveled to Belarus during the first 2 weeks of November. We had some gray days, but most days were sunny and the forest was at its best.

❗ More helpful information to visit Belarus

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Belarus destination

• Travel Guide to Minsk
• Unusual Things to do in Belarus
• Belarus Itinerary

Travel guides to former Soviet countries

• Georgia Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Moldova
• Azerbaijan Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Kyrgyzstan
• Travel Guide to Tajikistan
• Uzbekistan Travel Guide
• Kazakhstan Travel Guide

If you found this Belarus travel guide useful and have any comment/suggestion, kindly leave a comment, thanks!

14 comments

Great review! There is something I do not agree with you. Is Europe a democracy? Not anymore I do not think so! To the point that governments feel the right to decide what we should take in our bodies! At least the Belarus government has clear the game on the jab! And are not forcing their citizens to be injected as the European countries and the western world are doing! Europe, US, Australia, New Zealand, India, China, South America governments have blood of innocent people in their hands, corruption is rampant and censorship in scientific research and information from credible sources is far from little!

are we still talking about tourism in Belarus?

Thank you for replying, as you say yourself in your text, is important to understand what is the reality of the country we are visiting, their good and bad. This is a copy and paste from your text: Not sure if you know that Belarus is considered an authoritarian regime, the last dictatorship in Europe and the country with the most long-lasting President.

No press freedom, fraudulent elections, no real separation of powers and the only European country that keeps the death penalty. “..

Do you think there is now a freedom of press in the western world? Are you aware of what governments and press information are covering up and upholding from us in matters that are threatening our own lives and existence?

Do you know how many thousands if not millions have died unnecessary in our countries in the last 2 years and our still dying? If you do not know this information send me an email I will send you where to find it. Maybe you can help to safe one life! Nothing against you! Angry about what is still happening and so much ignorance going on. Take care Still I a nice review! 😉

Hi, very informative, as all your posts! Would be great to get some updated info though. Since it has become really difficult to reach Minsk via plane, do you know how the current situation at the borders is like? can you still travel to Belarus from Poland or Lithuania or are the borders closed?

Hi Ben, I am not entirely sure, but would love to know 🙂

I am from Poland and I am reading about the situation. I am not an expert, but I try to write as much as I know: The land borders are open. Polish and Lithuanian citizens coming from their countries can enter on a visa-free regime (and see every place in the country). How about the other nationalities – I don’t know, but I guess they probably can enter only the visa-free areas as it was before. Getting by air is almost impossible due to sanctions, but if you fly from the country that didn’t impose them, then I believe the visa-free regime is still in force.

I agree with Ben — very informative, as are all your posts. I travel as a tourist, not an investigative journalist. Hope to get to Belarus soon, as a tourist. Thanks for all your good work. Rosemary, 16 April 2023.

Thanks a lot 🙂

Hi, Joan, two more things: 1) You say, “If you want to visit the countryside or the northern forests and lakes, it is better to come outside of the winter months.” But if you’re planning to camp, AVOID JUL AND AUG, because the mosquitoes are fierce and will eat you alive. May, Jun or Sep are the best months for camping. Christa and Wolfgang (Austrians) told me this, and it was their first-hand experience. They barely survived the mossies. 2) You can’t book a hotel in Minsk via Booking.com right now (16 Apr 2023), but it seems you can book directly with the hotels themselves, at least with Hotel Belarus. I tried it this morning as an experiment, and it seemed to work okay. Joan, you’re a man, right? I ask because Joan is a girl’s name in English. Over and out, Rosemary.

Thanks for that Rosemary! Yes, I am a man, Joan is a male name in Catalan language 🙂

Hi Joan, I am a Canadian living in Ireland with friends in Belarus. I want to visit them but since the war they have shut down the visa free travel into Minsk because there are no flights from the EU. I am asking you if I get a proper visa and meet the requirements (ie insurance etc) will I be allowed to cross a land border such as Lithuania? Thanks for your help.

Hi Terry, as far as I know, visas are being issued on arrival and you can fly from Istanbul. I know people who’ve been there recently.

It’s good to hear from you again, Joan. Belarus is still very high up on my travel list. I think foreigners can’t cross into Belarus via a land border, but only by flying into Minsk.

Hi Joan, great article and blog. I am having some problems to find correct/updated information about Visa-free regions Grodno and Brest. On official websites it seems to be still in place, but in Vilnius Eurolines office they told me not. I know you have to get hotel reservations and medical insurance, but I wouldn’t like to get on the bus and be left down at the border. My idea was to travel to Grodno from Vilnius, then move to Brest and from there back to Poland. Can you anyhow verify if this is possible? Thank you so much in advance!

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Visiting Belarus without visas

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Belarus travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:20 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, belarus - avoid all travel.

The ability of the Embassy of Canada to Poland to provide consular services in Belarus is extremely limited. If you are in Belarus you should leave by commercial means.

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Armed conflict in Ukraine

In February 2022, Russia launched a military invasion of Ukraine. Russian forces are conducting military operations from Belarus.

Several countries, including Canada, have imposed sanctions on Belarus for its role in the conflict.

Certain international companies suspended their operations in the country.

Projectiles from the armed conflict in Ukraine have landed in the Brest region near the Ukrainian border. Be aware of your surroundings.

This situation is disrupting certain essential services such as:

• banking services
• transportation
• courier services

Flight options to leave Belarus are very limited. The situation in Belarus could deteriorate further.

The ability of the Embassy of Canada to Poland to provide consular services in Belarus is extremely limited. If you are in Belarus, you should leave by commercial means. You should not depend on the Government of Canada to help you leave the country.

If you decide to remain in Belarus despite this advisory:

• monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving situation
• ensure that your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
• review your personal security plans on a daily basis
• make sure you have an adequate supply of cash, essential items and medications
• be prepared to shelter in place
• expect transportation routes and essential services disruptions
• communicate your travel plans to family and friends
• register and update your contact information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Belarus to do so

Political situation

Large demonstrations against the government were held in the months following the presidential elections of August 2020. Local authorities responded with a violent crackdown on protesters, and tens of thousands of individuals were detained.

While the demonstrations are now less frequent, authorities are still actively targeting political opposition, journalists, and individuals perceived to be critical of the government, even for activities that took place outside of Belarus. Local authorities may enforce local laws in an arbitrary manner.

Journalists are particularly scrutinized. There are reports of intimidation, harassment and violence against local and foreign journalists, and some have been detained or have had their equipment confiscated.

On May 23, 2021, the Belarusian government forced the diversion of a commercial flight under false pretences to arrest a journalist. Since then, several countries, including Canada, advise their airlines to avoid Belarusian airspace due to serious safety and security concerns. As such, air transportation options to leave Belarus may be restricted.

The political situation remains fluid and unpredictable. Authorities could enforce security restrictions without notice.

If you are in Belarus:

• be vigilant at all times
• avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• expect a heightened security presence and security checks
• avoid expressions of dissent or making statements critical of or sensitive to the government
• monitor local media for the latest information

Surveillance

Security authorities may place foreigners under surveillance. Hotel rooms, telephones, fax machines and e-mail messages may be monitored. Personal possessions in hotel rooms may be searched. Foreigners have been expelled from the country for working with Belarusian civil-society groups.

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occur, particularly in the cities of:

Such crimes are especially common after dark in and around hotels and hostels frequented by foreigners.

Be vigilant when crossing the border with Poland at Brest due to the risk of mugging.

Theft of luxury cars is common. Park any vehicle in a secure location or guarded lot, and always keep valuables out of sight.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash. Always be aware of your surroundings.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. There is a potential for other violent incidents.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are frequent. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Debit- and credit-card fraud is common. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities are limited and only available in the larger cities.

Road safety

Roads are generally in good condition; however, many may be impassable in winter.

Drivers generally have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe-driving practices.

Horse-drawn carts are a common road hazard in rural areas.

Radar traps are widespread.

Public transportation

Use only officially marked taxis and do not share them with strangers. Fares vary greatly, and vehicles are often poorly maintained.

Buses and trolleys are poorly maintained and are usually crowded and unheated.

Exercise caution when travelling by train, especially on sleeper trains to Warsaw and Moscow. Store valuables in a safe place and do not leave your compartment unattended. Ensure that the door is secured from the inside.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

border_closures

Border closures

Starting in February 2023, local authorities in Poland and Lithuania have shut down certain border crossings with Belarus due to security concerns. The Polish, Lithuanian, Latvian, and Estonian governments have stated that further border crossing closures are possible.

If you plan to cross from Belarus into Poland or Lithuania, only the following border crossings remain open to cars and buses:

• Brest/Terespol
• Medininkai/Kamienny
• Šalčininkai /Beniakoni

Travelling by land from Belarus into these countries is increasingly difficult. More closures or changes to restrictions could happen with little or no warning.

If you are near the border or travelling through a border crossing:

• be aware of your surroundings
• avoid large crowds and gatherings
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Belarusian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Belarus.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Since October 2020, it has been reported that an increasing number of foreigners are being denied entry to the Republic of Belarus. You may be denied entry to Belarus if your travel is considered non-essential, even if you meet the regular entry requirements.

Before you travel:

• confirm the entry and exit requirements with the regional migration office
• confirm the status of the border checkpoints
• monitor the media for the latest information
• Information portal - State Border Committee of the Republic of Belarus
• Types of visas - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 30 days Private visa: not required for stays of up to 30 days Business visa: not required for stays of up to 30 days Student visa: required Transit visa: not required

You can enter Belarus without a visa for a period of up to 30 days, which cannot be extended, at the following conditions:

• You must arrive at Minsk National Airport
• You must  have a regular passport valid for at least 90 days beyond the date you expect to leave Belarus
• You must  show a proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Belarus (Br 49,000 (approx. CAD$30) for each day of stay)
• You must  have a medical insurance coverage of at least €10,000

Those conditions don’t apply if you are flying in from or to Russia as these flights are considered internal flights with no border control.

• Obtaining a visa for Belarus - Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Information on visa-free travel - Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Land border with Poland

If you intend to travel to Poland by land from Belarus, you must apply for a humanitarian reasons permit at the border crossing.

Polish Border Guards (in Polish)

• Entry to Poland through external borders
• List of border crossings
• Contact info

Entering Belarus by car

When entering Belarus by private vehicle, you must fill out a customs card and show proof of ownership documents or a power of attorney letter at the border crossing.

These documents must be translated into Belarusian and certified at a Belarusian embassy. Third-party car insurance is mandatory and can only be purchased upon entry into Belarus.

Registration

If staying in Belarus for more than 10 business days, you must register with the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Ministry of Interior (formerly OVIR) office in the district in which you are staying. Registration must be done no later than 3 working days after arriving in Belarus.

Registration will normally be arranged by your hotel. If you are not staying in a hotel, registration must be organized by your host.

Failure to register can result in fines and difficulties when departing.

Health insurance

You must present proof of valid medical insurance translated into Belarussian or Russian to enter Belarus. In addition, you will be required to purchase mandatory state insurance at the port of entry.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Access to medical care is limited and medical standards are not up to those you might expect in Canada. There are private medical and dental offices in the larger cities.

In the event of a serious accident or illness, medical evacuation will be necessary.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Belarus.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Belarus, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Belarus.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Belarus, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Belarusian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Belarus to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Identification

Always carry originals of your passport, visa and migration card, as you may be asked to prove your identity and date of entry into the country. Failure to provide internationally recognized identification could result in detention.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

Photography of military installations, public buildings and monuments may result in a penalty. Seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Belarusian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Homosexuality, however, is not widely accepted in Belarus.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You must carry an international driving permit.

Checkpoints are common on roads and border crossings in Belarus.

Traffic safety in Belarus is controlled by uniformed police officers known as DAI in Belarusian and GAI in Russian. If a traffic police officer waves a striped wand or points a red retro-reflector at you, you must pull over and stop, and be ready to present driving and insurance documents.

Drivers of foreign vehicles must pay a fee to use Belarusian highways.

There is a digital road toll system , BelToll, to collect tolls along motorways.

You must drive with the vehicle lights on at all times from November 1 to March 31.

The use of hand-held devices while driving is prohibited.

Drivers may not have any alcohol in their blood system: the alcohol limit for drivers is 0.00%.

The speed limit in urban areas is 60 km/h, unless specified otherwise. Outside urban areas the speed limit is 90 km/h and on highways, 110 km/h. Speed limits are strictly enforced.

Most traffic signs are in Cyrillic script only (not Latin).

The Belarusian government may enforce a requirement for special permits to travel in “protected border zones.” Be alert for warning signs, road barriers or border-guard posts. Do not cross into such areas without permission. For more information, contact the embassy of Belarus.

• Digital toll collection - BelToll
• International Driving Permit
• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

The currency is the Belarusian ruble (BYR).

Credit cards are accepted by many hotels, restaurants and stores, especially in Minsk. ATMs are available in major cities to withdraw rubles. Traveller’s cheques are not accepted for payment but can be exchanged at a bank for rubles.

You must pay for goods and services in Belarusian rubles. The use of foreign currency in cash transactions is prohibited. You can face arrest if you attempt to buy an item with currency other than Belarusian rubles. Exchange foreign currency at government-licensed booths only. A valid passport must be presented to purchase foreign currency.

Belarus is not prone to natural disasters.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 102
• medical assistance: 103
• firefighters: 101

Consular assistance

There is no Canadian government office in Belarus. You can obtain consular assistance from the Embassy of Canada to Poland in Warsaw.

For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada in Warsaw and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Latest update

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Belarus due to the volatile security environment caused by the Russian military presence along Belarus' border with Ukraine, military conflict and the arbitrary enforcement of laws.

Belarus (PDF 295.22 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Do not travel   to Belarus.

Do not travel   to Belarus due to the volatile security environment caused by the Russian military presence along Belarus' border with Ukraine, military conflict and the arbitrary enforcement of laws.

Do not travel to areas near borders with Latvia, Lithuania and Poland.

Do not travel to areas near borders with Latvia, Lithuania and Poland due to ongoing civil unrest and potential for armed violence.

• Do not travel to Belarus due to the volatile security environment caused by the Russian military presence along Belarus' border with Ukraine and military conflict. Russian forces are conducting military operations from Belarus, and this has heightened tensions in the region. The security environment is volatile and could deteriorate at short notice. Do not attempt to travel to the Belarus-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Belarus.
• If you're in Belarus, leave immediately using limited commercial options available or private means. Carefully consider the safest means and route to depart. Check the entry requirements of the  destination  you're entering. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family.
• If, despite our advice, you remain in Belarus, review your personal security plans. Expect restrictions on financial transactions and be aware you may be affected by shortages of essential products and services. For more information on what to do if you're caught in armed conflict, see our general advice ‘' There's an armed conflict ’'.
• Large protests occur in Minsk and other cities in Belarus. Avoid demonstrations and follow the instructions of authorities. Harassment of foreigners is possible. You may not be able to trust the police and other local officials. People have reported harassment, mistreatment and extortion by officials. Do not travel near borders with Latvia, Lithuania and Poland due to ongoing civil unrest and the potential for armed violence.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• There's a radiation exclusion zone around Chernobyl. Authorities may restrict travel in this region. Food may have high levels of radiation. Avoid eating local food.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other diseases are common. Boil tap water or drink bottled water. Avoid ice cubes, unpasteurised dairy products, and raw and undercooked food.
• Healthcare standards in Belarus are below those of Australia. If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation. Make sure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice:  Health

• In March, Belarus introduced laws incurring jail sentences for 'terrorism propaganda' and 'discrediting' the Belarusian armed forces and military organisations. Penalties may be severe, including the death penalty for high treason.
• Crimes, including murder, can also attract the death penalty. Penalties for drug offences are severe, with long prison sentences.
• Law enforcement agencies in Belarus cooperate closely with agencies in Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution.
• Authorities can ask for ID at any time. Always carry your passport, original visa and migration card. They will not accept copies.
• It's illegal to take photos of certain sites, buildings, monuments and officials. Other rules or fees can apply to photography in public areas.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Entry requirements can change at short notice. Contact your airline or the nearest embassy or consulate of Belarus to confirm entry requirements. If, despite our advice, you travel to Belarus, you can get a 30-day visa-free entry into Belarus. 
• If you're in Belarus, you should leave immediately by limited commercial or private means if you judge it's safe to do so. Confirm the entry requirements for your  destination  before arrival. Do not travel near the borders of  Latvia ,  Lithuania ,  Poland  and  Ukraine . 
• Flights to and from Belarus are extremely limited. Flight availability and travel routes could change or be disrupted at short notice. Several countries have banned the overflight of their airspace by Belarusian airlines, including all EU member states, the UK and Ukraine. 
• Expect disruptions to travel and changes at short notice. Some roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or damaged. Make sure you have a supply of food, water, medication and fuel. Make sure your travel documents are up-to-date, including those of your family. 

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy in Belarus.  Our ability to provide consular assistance in Belarus is severely limited.  Consular services may be limited due to the security environment.  The Australian government will not be able to evacuate you from Belarus.
• If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Security situation.

If you're in Belarus, leave immediately using limited commercial options available or private means. The security environment is volatile and could deteriorate quickly due to the Russian military presence along Belarus' border with Ukraine and the military conflict. Russian forces are conducting military operations from Belarus, which has heightened regional tensions. Do not attempt to travel to the Belarus-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Belarus. 

If you decide to stay in Belarus, review your personal security plans. Avoid public demonstrations. Expect restrictions on financial transactions and be aware you may be affected by shortages of essential products and services. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. 

More information:

• Threat of conflict

Border areas

Do not travel to the Belarus-Ukraine border due to the risk of armed conflict. We advise you do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and military conflict. Read the  Ukraine travel advice  for more information.

Due to restrictions on movement and the potential for civil unrest, do not travel near borders with  Latvia ,  Lithuania  and  Poland . Armed violence is possible at any time.

Leaving Belarus

Where it's safe to do so, you should leave Belarus. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. Any travel options you take are at your own risk.

Transport routes may be disrupted. Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Ensure you have adequate food, water, medication and fuel supply.

Read your destination's travel advice to ensure you meet the entry requirements. Minsk International Airport operates with international flights to limited destinations. Minsk airport and Belarusian land border operations could close without notice. Check before planning any border crossings. Be prepared for travel delays and disruptions. Several countries have banned Belarusian airlines from flying over their airspace, including all EU member states, the UK and Ukraine.

If, despite our advice, you decide to stay in Belarus:

• follow the instructions of authorities
• ensure your travel documents are up-to-date, and keep your passport and other travel documentation safe
• contact your family and friends in Australia so they're aware of your location and situation
• keep up to date with developments on the security situation and monitor reputable media, and regularly check our travel advice and  social media
• review your personal security plans and make contingency plans to leave as soon as you judge it safe to do so
• always be alert and aware of your surroundings
• avoid large gatherings and areas with groups of fighters and military equipment.

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests

Large and local street demonstrations occur in Minsk and other cities in Belarus.

There have been casualties and protesters detained. Further demonstrations could occur without notice and turn violent. Harassment of foreigners is possible.

Avoid protests and follow the instructions of authorities.

Local authorities won't tolerate opposition. They often make many arrests. 

Belarus has introduced the death penalty for 'attempted terrorism'.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid areas of unrest
• obey the local authorities
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Crimes against travellers include pick-pocketing,  muggings and robberies . Take care on sleeper trains and in or near bars and hotels visited by foreigners.

Watch out for drink or food spiking. You're at higher risk of theft if you've been drugged.

People have reported harassment, mistreatment and extortion by police and other local officials.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Belarus, they can still happen.

Terrorists have staged attacks in other European cities in recent years. Targets include:

• public transport, including train stations
• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• public areas that attract large groups of people, such as tourist attractions, sporting venues and shopping centres

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

People are injured or killed in snow-related accidents every winter from December to February.

Accidents include exposure to extreme cold, falls, traffic accidents, avalanches and snow falling from roofs.

Use common sense and take care in  severe weather .

If there's a  natural disaster , follow the advice of local authorities.

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Most Australian travel insurance policies won't cover you for travel to Belarus. Do not travel to Belarus. See ' Safety '

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Physical and mental health

Do not travel to Belarus. If, despite our advice, you travel to Belarus, consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Belarus. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage  
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Tick-borne diseases.

Tick-borne encephalitis  (World Health Organisation) and other tick-borne diseases are a risk, especially if you travel through forests.

Ticks are common in rural areas from spring to autumn - April to October.

Belarus has opened the exclusion zone immediately around the Chornobyl site, which includes the area close to the border with Ukraine in the southeast of Belarus.

Access to this part of the country may be limited and remains radioactive.

Tourists can visit the area with organised tour groups.

Tour groups are subject to regular security, passport and radiation checks.

If you visit Chornobyl:

• go with a reputable tour operator
• follow all safety instructions
• State Agency Of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management
• State Environmental Research Institution Polesye State Radiation-Ecological Reserve

Other health risks

Foodborne, waterborne and other diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• tuberculosis

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products

Get medical advice if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of health care in Belarus is lower than in Australia. Doctors and hospitals will ask for insurance details or an up-front payment before treating you.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to get proper care. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long prison sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Always carry your passport, original visa and migration card.

Authorities can ask for ID at any time. They can detain you if you don't have identification. Copies of ID aren't accepted.

Belarus has the death penalty for crimes including murder and 'attempted terrorism'.

In March, Belarus introduced laws incurring jail sentences for 'terrorism propaganda', 'discrediting' the Belarusian armed forces and military organisations, and the death penalty for high treason.

In Belarus, it's illegal to:

• drive with a blood alcohol level above zero
• conduct some religious activities, such as preaching, handing out literature and meeting with unregistered religious groups
• take photos of military sites, government buildings, monuments and uniformed officials

Other rules or fees can apply for taking photographs in public areas.

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal but aren't widely accepted.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

Belarus doesn't recognise dual nationality.

Any child born to a Belarusian parent is a Belarusian citizen. This is regardless of their place of birth.

By law, dual nationals must enter and exit the country using their Belarusian passport. This limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

If you enter Belarus with a Belarusian passport, local authorities will treat you as a Belarusian national.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa-free entry for short stays

If, despite our advice, you travel to Belarus, you can get a 30-day visa-free entry. This is only valid if you enter and exit through Minsk National Airport and Brest, Vitebsk, Gomel and Mogilev airports. More information can be found on the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

Visa-free entry does not apply to travellers coming from or travelling to Russia.

Other entry conditions apply, such as compulsory medical insurance.

Travel via Russia

If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Belarus via Russia, you'll need to get a Russian transit visa. Contact the nearest  embassy of Russia  for details.

Diplomatic or official passport

Different rules apply if you're travelling on a diplomatic or official passport. Contact the  State Border Committee of The Republic of Belarus  for details.

Border measures

Authorities don't allow foreigners to cross the land border between Belarus and Russia. Instead, you'll need to travel between Belarus and Russia by air. For details, contact either:

• the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus
• the  Embassy of Russia

Authorities permit Australians to cross land borders for short visits to the areas of Augustov Canal, Belovezhskaya Pushcha and Brest (bordering Poland), and Grodno (bordering Poland and Lithuania).

Travel with a registered tour operator and enter through assigned border checkpoints. Check details about:

• Grodno and the Augustov Canal visitors
• Brest foreign visitors

When you enter or exit Belarus, show the original visa issued to border authorities. They won't accept copies.

You may be asked to present a document with a notarized translation confirming the purpose of your visit to Belarus at the border.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. For details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules, contact:

• Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Republic of Belarus
• State Customs Authorities of Belarus

Other formalities

Migration card

We advise you do not travel to Russia or Belarus. If, despite our advice, you travel to Belarus or Russia, you'll need to complete a migration card when you enter. One card covers both countries.

If you don't get a card on your flight or train, ask the border control authorities for one.

Keep the stamped second half of the card. You'll need it when leaving the last country.

Medical insurance

You must have medical insurance to enter Belarus.

If you arrive without proof of insurance, you'll need to purchase a standard policy on entry.

Contact the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus  for details.

Currency and goods declaration

If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Belarus and arrive with more than $US10,000 worth of currency and goods, you'll need to complete a declaration form.

Ensure your completed form is stamped by a customs officer when you arrive.

Carry it during your visit and show it when you leave the country.

Undeclared money may be confiscated when you leave Belarus. You could also be fined.

Local registration

If, despite our advice, you plan to travel to Belarus and stay for more than 10 days, you must register with the local office of the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Ministry of Interior.

Registering is usually part of the check-in procedure if you stay in a hotel. Confirm this with your hotel.

If you don't register, you could be fined. You could face difficulties when leaving the country.

Exporting goods

Strict rules control the export of antiques, icons and items of historic significance.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

If your passport is stolen, you'll also need the following:

• an official police report
• a new Australian passport from the  Australian Embassy in Moscow
• a new exit visa from Belarusian authorities

You won't be able to leave Belarus without an original visa unless you're granted authorisation. This comes from the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Belarusian Ministry of Interior.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Belarus Ruble (BYN).

In July 2016, new BYN notes were introduced. The face value of old banknotes in circulating currency changed at a ratio of 1:10,000.

Crime and ATM fraud is a risk. Only use ATMs inside bank premises during business hours.

If you're a victim of an ATM  scam , report it to the local police.

Local travel

Do not travel to the Belarus-Ukraine border due to military conflict. Do not travel to areas near borders with Latvia, Lithuania and Poland due to restrictions on movement and potential civil unrest. Armed violence is possible at any time. More information on crossing borders can be found on the  State Border Committee website (in Russian) .

Carry your passport, original visa and migration card with you at all times. Local authorities won't accept copies.

Some border areas in Belarus have limited entry border zones. You need a  special permit  issued in advance by the State Border Committee to enter.

Limited entry zones are generally sign-posted and restricted by road barriers and border guard posts.

Don't enter limited entry zones without a valid permit.

Driving permit

To drive in Belarus, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

You must get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

Due to ice and snow, some roads outside large cities may be impassable in winter.

Drivers must have either:

• an original ownership certificate for their vehicle
• a rental contract, or
• a power of attorney from the owner of the vehicle

If you drive a foreign vehicle in Belarus, you must pay a fee to use toll roads. You can be fined if you don't. Check payment, toll roads and maps on  BelToll .

You must also have a 'green card' (proof of vehicle insurance) valid for Belarus. If not, you must buy compulsory car insurance at the border.

• Driving or riding

On 11 April 2022, the EU announced that 21 Russian-owned airlines were banned from flying in EU airspace due to safety concerns.

Flights in and out of Belarus are extremely limited. Several countries (including all EU member states, the UK and Ukraine) have banned the overflight of their airspace by Belarusian airlines. Travel to and from Belarus is only possible through an indirect air route via a country that has not imposed a ban.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths. If you're flying domestically or internationally, research your aviation provider.

Check  Belarus' air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

For non-urgent criminal issues, contact the local police at the nearest police station. 

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy in Belarus. Contact the Australian Embassy in Russia for consular help. Our ability to provide consular assistance is severely limited. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Belarus.

Australian Embassy, Moscow

13 Kropotkinsky  Pereulok Moscow  119034 Russia Phone: (+7 495) 956-6070 Fax: (+7 495) 956-6170 Website:  russia.embassy.gov.au Twitter:  @PosolAustralia

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

Australians in need of consular assistance should contact the Australian Government's 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Belarus?

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Long regarded by travellers as little more than a curiosity, Belarus has suddenly emerged as one of Europe’s ‘it’ destinations. Fuelling that rise are relaxed visa requirements, a sneaky-good art and cafe scene, and hospitable locals. While political dissent remains muted, the country seems to be having fun again.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Nyasvizh Castle

Over a causeway leading away from the town with lovely lakes on either side lies this palace-like castle and park complex. Erected by the Radziwill family…

The 16th-century Mir Castle, reflected magnificently in an adjoining pond, resembles something straight out of Disney. A recent renovation has the place…

Museum of the Great Patriotic War

Housed in a garish new building, Minsk's best museum houses an excellent display detailing Belarus' suffering and heroism during the Nazi occupation. With…

Homel Palace

Homel's signature attraction was built by Field Marshal Pyotr Rumyantsev in the late 19th century, soon after Homel became part of the Russian Empire. He…

Museum of Railway Technology

The outdoor Museum of Railway Technology has a superb collection of locomotives and carriages dating from 1903 (eg the Moscow–Brest Express, with shower…

Vul Kastrychnitskaya

Vul Kastrychnitskaya – still known by its Soviet name, ulitsa Oktyabrskaya – has blossomed into Minsk's unofficial arts district. Brazilian street artists…

Brest Fortress

During Operation Barbarossa in the early days of the Great Patriotic War (WWII), a small band of soldiers gallantly held off a superior Nazi force at…

Belavezhskaya Pushcha National Park

Unesco World Heritage Site Belavezhskaya Pushcha National Park is the oldest wildlife refuge in Europe and the pride of Belarus. At the National Park…

Latest stories from Belarus

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• Food & Drink

Apr 23, 2021 • 6 min read

April 26 marks the 35th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster. Travel writer Richard Collett traveled to see the lesser-visited exclusion zone in Belarus. 

Jun 19, 2019 • 2 min read

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Belarus and beyond

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Belarus Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 4, 2023

Located in Eastern Europe between Ukraine and the Baltics, Belarus is a huge country that sees very few tourists. And while the country is ruled by “Europe’s last dictator,” thanks to its recently-relaxed visa rules, visiting Belarus has become a lot easier in recent years.

For those who love the outdoors, over half of the country is forested, including Bialowieza, the oldest woodland in Europe. The country is full of lakes and rivers where locals and intrepid travelers can fish, canoe, kayak, or camp out in pristine nature untouched by the outside world. Belarus is an overlooked destination by nature-loving travelers so you’ll see very few tourists vying for space here.

And Minsk, Belarus’s capital, is a lively and affordable city full of Stalinist architecture contrasted against antiquated churches and flower-filled city squares. Be sure to enjoy its cafe culture and lively nightlife for a few days before moving on to quieter cities like Brest and Hrodna, or into the countryside where rare European bison roam.

While there is mild tension between Belarus and the rest of Europe, the country is a budget-friendly destination perfect for anyone looking to get off the beaten path and explore a region untouched by the hordes of tourists found in Western Europe.

This travel guide to Belarus can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Belarus

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Belarus

1. Wander Minsk

Minsk, the capital of Belarus, is the first stop for most visitors. Much of its original architecture was destroyed during World War II. Visit the Museum of the Great Patriotic War, the Orthodox Church of St Mary Magdalene, and some of Minsk’s many WWII memorials.

2. Tour Mir Castle

The 16th-century Mir Castle is a favorite for Belarusians, and most locals consider it the most beautiful castle in the country. Its red-and-white brick exterior and towers cast a striking reflection in the castle’s pond. The interior has been restored to show what life looked like back in the time of the wealthy Radziwills family who lived here from 1568 to the 1840s. The Radziwills were a powerful magnate family originating from Lithuania that owned a lot of property in Belarus and beyond. The meticulously manicured gardens are beautiful too. The exterior portions (courtyard and parks) are free and admission to the castle is 14 BYN for adults, 7 BYN for students, and 3 BYN for an audio guide.

3. Explore Braslav Lakes National Park

The 300 pristine blue lakes in this area are enveloped by the countryside’s thick forests, rolling hills, and giant boulders left behind from glaciers. Come here for camping, fishing, bird watching, rock climbing, and bouldering.

4. Tour Polotsk

Polotsk is the oldest city in Belarus, dating back to 862. The many museums and historic sites here explore this city’s extensive past. Be sure to see the Saint Sophia Cathedral, the National Polotsk Historical Museum, and the medieval Boris Stones.

5. Visit Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park

This park is one of the few places in the world where you can see European Bison in their natural habitat, as well as the Eurasian elk. There are numerous hiking and biking trails in the park. The 6-kilometer (4-mile) Dokudovo route is the best chance to see bison.

Other Things to See and Do in Belarus

1. visit grodno.

The city of Grodno sits on the western border of Belarus. Most people come here to see the 12th-century Kalozha Church, considered to be the oldest church in Belarus. While the outside is dull, the inside has colorful geometrical ornaments and crosses, and the floor is made up of brown, green, and yellow plates. Be sure to also spend a few hours in the Old Castle’s Grodno History and Archaeology Museum, which walks you through the history of the region. It contains artifacts from the area, including mammoth tusks, Neolithic spears, medieval armor, and a large collection of rare and antique books. Admission is 5 BYN.

2. Take a day trip to Dudutki

The Dudutki Ethnological Museum Complex is a “living museum” located outside of Minsk. It recreates life in rural Belarus from the 17th-20th centuries, though most buildings are from the 19th century. The complex includes a courtyard with a creamery (where you can sample handmade cheese), a bakery (again, fresh samples!) a pottery workshop, a woodworker’s shop, a windmill, a historic wooden church, and an area where you can learn how people forged horseshoes and armor. You can also try samorgon , a potent moonshine made exclusively in the Dudutki territory. The museum hosts festivals throughout the year, such as a blacksmiths’ festival, various traditional feasting days, Pancake Week (the last week before Lent), and special Christmas activities. It’s 14 BYN to visit, or 23 BYN with a guide (which I suggest, as English signage is limited).

3. Spend time in Pripyatsky National Park

Pripyatsky National Park is known as the “Lungs of Europe” for its natural landscape of swamps, floodplains, broad-leaf forests, and oak forests. Comprising over 156,813 acres, the park boasts more than 250 avian species, 900 types of plants, and over 50 mammal species, including elk, wild boar, lynx, red deer, and European bison. There’s a lot to do here, from hiking, fishing, boat tours, and even guided hikes. The park also has a comprehensive museum focused on plant and animal collections, natural photography exhibits, and ethnographic displays. You can book a stay in the forest lodging (which includes a guide) for around 75 BYN a night. Most guided hikes or boat tours start at around 8-10 BYN.

4. Go to Brest Fortress

Brest Fortress (in Brest) was built between 1833-1842. During World War II, thousands of German troops laid siege to the fortress. Belarusian soldiers and citizens kept back the attack for a month before the fortress finally fell (there’s now a memorial to honor those who defended the fort). You can explore the crumbling and bullet-riddled walls as well as the memorial statues. There are some historical museums on site too (including the Defense Museum and the Museum of War). Entrance to the fortress grounds is free, although you need to pay to enter each of the individual museums (about 5 BYN per museum).

5. See Lida Castle

Head west to reach the city of Lida, home of the 14th-century Lida Castle, built to protect against the Teutonic Knights. Admire its unique trapezium shape and ornate red brickwork. In the winter, the inner courtyard is used as a skating rink.

6. Visit Nesvizh Castle

Built over 400 years in the 16th-19th centuries, the palace is a mix of Baroque and Renaissance architecture and, like Mir Castle, was another former home of the Radziwill family. This is one of the most visited attractions in Belarus and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Outside, there are traditional English rose gardens and a picturesque central courtyard surrounded by the castle’s yellow walls. The interior was renovated in the late 19th century and is incredibly luxurious with gilded ceilings, dark wood-paneled walls, ornate antique furniture, chandeliered reception rooms, grand bedrooms, intricate porcelain fireplaces, mounted hunting trophies, and countless family portraits. The Radziwill family tombs are located in the adjoining 16th-century Catholic church, one of the oldest Baroque structures outside of Italy. Admission to the complex is 15 BYN and 3 BYN for an audio guide.

7. Go kayaking

Stracha and Isloch are two popular rivers for kayaking, and they both have faster-flowing routes for the more experienced paddler. For a multi-day trip, you can paddle the river Saryanka in two days. There are some kayak rental shops in Minsk, but you need to book in advance, especially during peak season. Expect to pay around 70 BYN for a two-day (weekend) rental. The price includes paddles, life jackets, airtight bags, a pump, and free delivery in the Minsk area. Day tours cost about 150 BYN from Minsk.

8. Learn how to bake

Belarusians love their bread and they even have a whole Museum of Bread in Botvinovo! The museum is an interactive, hands-on experience where you not only learn about the process of traditional bread making but get to bake some yourself using a traditional wood stove. It costs 12 BYN and 17 BYN with a guide.

8. Take a walk through Hrodna’s Old Castle

Hrodna’s Old Castle was built in the 1580s as a residence for the Grand Dukes of Lithuania and various Polish kings. Although much of it was destroyed during the early 18th century, you can still visit the ruins and take in the scenic views from across the Neman River. While all that remains of the original castle are remnants of the walls, there is an ongoing reconstruction project to rebuild the castle to its 16th-century glory. The main point of interest in the complex is the Grodno State Museum of History and Archaeology, which focuses on the history of the region. It has one of the largest collections of artifacts in Belarus, comprising over 200,000 objects. Highlights include a set of mammoth tusks, Neolithic spears, a set of arrowheads from the 3rd-4th centuries BCE, an 18th-century dugout boat, and weaponry from throughout the ages. General admission to the grounds is free, but museum admission is 5 BYN. There are plenty of signs in English too.

10. Visit the Belarusian State Art Museum

The Belarusian State Art Museum in Minsk is the largest art museum in Belarus, with over 30,000 works in its collection. It contains works by Soviet social realists and Russian masters, including Valentin Volkov and Yudel Pen, who taught and mentored the famous Russian-French artist, Marc Chagall. The works of Chagall, who was born and grew up in Belarus, are often on rotating exhibit here as well. At the back of a museum is a section that features local art from the 1940s to 1970s. Admission is 8 BYN for adults, and an audio guide is an extra 3 BYN.

11. Visit the Stalin Line Museum

The Stalin Line was a heavily fortified defensive line that covered 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) along the Soviet Union’s western border. Built from 1928-1939, the discontinuous line was in actuality 4 especially fortified areas around the cities of Polotsk, Minsk, Slutsk, and Mozyr. The open-air museum is located about 1.5 hours from Minsk on the site of this line. You can wander through reconstructed trenches, historic bunkers, and fortifications. There are signs in English that explain the history. Even if you’re not into military history, there are a lot of interactive activities to do, like taking a ride in a tank or helicopter or shooting live ammo. The complex also includes a large collection of military technology like warplanes and weapons. Adult admission is 15 BYN, and 7 BYN for students. A 3-hour guided tour is 28 BYN.

Belarus Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels are only available in Brest, Minsk, and Grodno, with prices costing around 22 BYN per night for a four-bed dorm. For a private room, expect to pay at 45-65 BYN per night. Free Wi-Fi isn’t always available so be sure to check the amenities before you book if you need Wi-Fi access.

Budget hotels, guest houses, and bed and breakfasts are available all over the country. Expect to pay 85-120 BYN per night for a double room, which often includes breakfast.

Airbnb is available in the larger cities, with private rooms starting around 25 BYN per night (though they average double that if you don’t book in advance). For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 70 BYN.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available around the country. Campgrounds cost around 12 BYN per night for a basic plot for two people without electricity. Wild camping is legal in Belarus, with no restrictions on camping in public areas.

Food – Like its Eastern European neighbors, traditional cuisine in Belarus is hearty, featuring a lot of potatoes (and vegetables in general), cheeses, stews, different types of pancakes, and sausages. Pork is the most popular meat, with sausage being the go-to option. Dumplings are also super popular, especially Russian pelmeni (dumplings made from thin, unleavened dough). To wash it all down, vodka is the traditional drink of choice.

Food is super affordable in Belarus. For an inexpensive meal at a local restaurant, expect to pay around 6-8 BYN for traditional food like draniki (potato pancakes), a plate of kletski (dumplings), or sorrel soup. Even meat and fish dishes at local restaurants are only 7-10 BYN. A large typical salad to share is 10-12 BYN.

For drinks, a beer with your meal costs 3-4 BYN while a glass of wine is 7-9 BYN. Cocktails are around 9-14 BYN and a cappuccino is 3.50 BYN.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 10 BYN for a combo meal. Street food like a pancake with sausage or a draniki with meat is less than 2 BYN, while a kebab is 11-13 BYN. Pizza is 10-13 BYN.

At higher-end restaurants, meat dishes are around 30-35 BYN, seafood dishes are 35-65 BYN, and desserts are 10-15 BYN. A three-course meal at one of these restaurants generally runs 85-100 BYN.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of basic groceries like pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat costs around 50-65 BYN.

Backpacking Belarus Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Belarus, expect to spend about 85 BYN per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, limiting your drinking, using local transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like hiking and free walking tours.

On a mid-range budget of 175 BYN per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for all your meals at cheap traditional restaurants, enjoy a few drinks at the bar, take the bus between cities, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting castles and kayaking.

On a “luxury” budget of 345 BYN or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car or take the train between cities, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in BYN.

Belarus Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

With cheap food, transportation, and accommodations, Belarus isn’t an expensive place to visit. The cost of living here is cheap and your money will go pretty far here. But it’s always good to try to save money where you can so here are my tips on saving money in Belarus:

• Take a free walking tour – Free Walking Tour Minsk is the best free walking tour in the capital city, and it’s a great way to get familiar with the city and the culture. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Wild camp – If you want to save money in Belarus and are into camping, bring your tent as wild camping is legal. You can pitch your tent on public land throughout Belarus.
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a great way to save money and meet a knowledgeable local who can help you better understand the city and its people. Just be sure to send your requests early as there are not a lot of hosts in the country.
• Walk everywhere – All of the major cities in Belarus are quite walkable, so skip the public transportation if you want to save a few extra dollars.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors for free!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Belarus

Hostels are available in Belarus’ larger cities and are generally quite social and affordable. Here are some suggested places to stay in Belarus:

• Loft Hostel Minsk (Minsk)
• Hostel Tower 31/18 (Minsk)
• Hostel Point (Minsk)
• Semashko Hotel (Grodno)
• Neman Hotel (Grodno)

How to Get Around Belarus

Public Transportation – Public transportation prices vary by city. In Minsk, expect to pay around 0.75 BYN for the bus, trolleybus, or tram. Minsk also has the only metro system, with fares costing 0.80 BYN.

Almost every town and city has buses with comparable prices. There are also trolleybuses in Gomel, Mogilev, Vitebsk, Grodno, Brest, and Bobruisk. Other than Minsk, trams are available in Vitebsk, Mozyr, and Novopolotsk.

Taxis are available in most places. Prices start around 3.50 BYN and cost around 0.60 BYN per additional kilometer.

Trains – Traveling by train is one of the best ways to travel around Belarus. The country has an extensive network that can get you to over 2,100 destinations. You can buy your tickets from the train station before you board or online, and then pick up your tickets at the station (you will have a deadline to pick up your ticket, so check this first). Keep in mind that most of the trains here are really old so they aren’t super comfortable.

You can travel from Brest to Vitebsk in a reserved seat for 11-18 BYN (a 3–5-hour journey depending on stops), or Minsk to Hrodna for about 8 BYN (a 4-5.5-hour journey depending on stops).

You can book trains on the official website, pass.rw.by/en (it’s English-friendly).

Bus – The bus is a lot slower than the train and figuring out schedules online can be a pain as there are very few booking sites in English. Your best bet is to either show up at the station to purchase a ticket or ask your accommodation to help you book a ticket in advance. A bus ride from Minsk to Brest costs about 14 BYN, while a bus from Minsk to Hrodna costs about 20 BYN.

You can also travel by marshrutka, a fixed-route minibus. These minibusses are not as comfortable but they’re often a lot faster than other buses or trains. Journeys cost between 5-15 BYN, depending on the route.

Budget Airlines – There are no domestic flights in Belarus.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 50 BYN per day for a multi-day rental. The roads are in relatively good condition though drunk driving is common so drive cautiously. Drivers need to be at least 19 years of age and must have an International Driving Permit (IDP). To find the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Belarus

The best time to visit Belarus is in the month of July. The weather is warm and there aren’t quite as many tourists as in August (which is peak tourism month). The highest daily average temperature is 23°C (74°F), and temperatures rarely drop below 17°C (62°F). While August is busy, “busy” in Belarus is a far cry from “busy” in Western Europe so you don’t need to worry about booking too far in advance.

If your main goal is hiking and outdoor adventure, come during September and early October when temperatures are still warm but not too hot. The change leaves are particularly beautiful at this time.

November to February are the coldest months to visit, and you can expect snowfall and freezing temperatures. I’d avoid a winter visit if you can.

How to Stay Safe in Belarus

Belarus is very safe and welcoming to travelers. Petty crime (like pickpocketing) is the most common danger in the cities, especially around high-traffic areas in Minsk. Another common issue for travelers is theft on public transport. If you are using public transport, keep your possessions close to you at all times.

This is also true on sleeper trains so keep your valuables secure and out of reach as theft during the night can occur (especially on trains to/from Poland).

Solo female travelers should feel comfortable traveling here during the day though they should avoid traveling alone at night (most travelers should, just to be safe). Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink when out at the bar and never walk home alone intoxicated.

if you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight as break-ins can occur.

If you’re worried about scams, read about common travel scams to avoid right here.

Remember that Belarus is an authoritarian state, so watch what you say and the questions you ask. Political unrest is not tolerated, so stay away from any political demonstrations or rallies. You could be fined or even imprisoned for taking part — especially now that tensions are on the rise between Belarus and the rest of Europe,

If you experience an emergency, dial 102 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Belarus Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Belarus Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

Visa requirements

To get a Belarusian entry visa the following documents should be submitted (brought in person or sent by post) to the Embassy: 1. Completed visa application form , which meets the following requirements:

♦ visa application form should be filled out in legible handwriting (in block letters) or typing, in English or Russian / Belarusian language;

♦ answers to the questions should be complete and logically consistent and indicate the real purpose of the visit;

♦ purpose of the visit should be specified in detail;

♦ if a question does not apply, please, write “N/A”, incomplete forms will be returned to the applicants unprocessed;

♦ it is the applicant’s responsibility to check whether the information given on the form is correct;

♦ the application form should be signed by the applicant personally — failure to observe this requirement may result in refusal of the application;

♦ the visa application form for a minor should be signed by their legal representative.

2. One color photograph , which meets the following requirements:

♦ not older than 6 months;

♦ size 35 x 45 mm;

♦ full face (70-80 % of the picture) without sunglasses, hat or other head covering unless for ethnic or religious reasons;

♦ plain, evenly lit and light background;

♦ high resolution;

♦ corrugation or ink is not allowed.

3. Valid original passport , which meets the following requirements:

♦ contains a photograph of the owner;

♦ has at least two blank pages intended for visas;

♦ valid for at least 90 days after the expected departure date from the Republic of Belarus;

♦ not dubious in terms of authenticity or ownership;

♦ contains no torn pages, marks, entries, erasures and corrections that are not certified by the issuing authorities of the respective foreign state;

♦ if the applicant is under 18 years old – a copy of full Birth Certificate (contains information about parents) and copies of passports of the applicant’s parents (legal representatives);

♦ if the applicant previously had USSR or Belarusian citizenship – a document certifying the loss of the USSR or Belarusian citizenship must be submitted to the Embassy.

4. Visa support documents for the required type of visa:

5. Health insurance , which should contain the following information:

♦ name, address and phone number of the foreign insurance company;

♦ full name of foreign citizen covered by the insurance;

♦ validity area — should include the Republic of Belarus;

♦ insurance period — should cover the whole period of stay in the Republic of Belarus;

♦ insurance coverage — at least 10 000 Euro.

Detailed information on health insurance

Online services for drawing up health insurance are provided by Belarusian insurance companies Belgosstrakh  and Beleximgarant .

Visa processing fees and acceptable payment documents .

Free of charge visas may be issued for children under 14 years (citizens of all countries, except European Union member-states) and in case of critical health condition or death of close relatives or family members  — upon presentation of appropriate documents.

Visa processing fees for citizens of countries other than United States, Canada and EU member-states may be different. For additional information, please contact the Consular Section of the Embassy.

7. Envelope (when applying by post).

Pre-paid envelope at least 26 cm x 15.9 cm / 10.2" x 6.2" (USPS, FedEx, UPS) with the filled return address.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Upon the request of the consular officer, additional documents may be required for visa issuance.

The regular visa processing time is 5 business days (expedite processing time – within 2 business days) after all necessary documents are submitted.

The consular officer has the right to reduce the number of entries and the validity period of visa, increase the term of visa procedure.

Any applicant may be interviewed by a consular officer if necessary.

In case of visa denial, the visa processing fee does not reimbursed .

The consular officer is not obliged to indicate the reasons for visa denial.

Once issued visa can not be extended . If your travel plans change after the visa was issued, you have to apply for a new visa.

To extend the term of stay being in Belarus, foreigner should contact the local unit of the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Ministry of Interior at the place of ones registration to obtain an exit visa or a residence permit.

The Consular Section of the Embassy strongly recommends to apply for visa NOT EARLIER than six months before your visit to Belarus and not to make any irrevocable travel plans prior to obtaining visa.

Belarusian entry visas upon arrival at Minsk National Airport

Rules of border crossing and stay in Belarus for foreign citizens

Customs formalities while entering or leaving Belarus

Belarusian Diplomatic Missions

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Belarus Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Belarus.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Belarus.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Belarus. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Belarus.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Belarus. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Belarus, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Belarus. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Tick-borne Encephalitis

For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas

TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.

TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found. 

Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet.

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Belarus, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Belarus. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Belarus include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Belarus’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Belarus may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Belarus, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Belarus for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Introducing Belarus

About belarus.

• Images of Belarus
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Belarus
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Minsk National Airport

Belarus travel guide

A country whose landscape is still engulfed by the memories of its Soviet past, Belarus is emerging as a trendy Eastern European hotspot - with the country slowly shedding its Communist reputation to become a budding and modern tourist destination.

Unlike many of its neighbours who chose to become part of the European Union after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, consumerism is notably absent in Belarus – and those who visit are treated to a multifaceted destination rich in history, brimming with culture and populated by warm and generous inhabitants.

And though its popularity is growing, Belarus' appeal might well be in its isolation. Indeed this is one of the few remaining places where you can still see what life was like during the days of communism. Largely untouched, Belarus offers an abundance of Soviet iconography, particularly in the big cities, allowing anyone with an imagination to visualise how things once were.

The main destination is the capital, Minsk, defined by clean streets and neoclassical Stalinist architecture and where a cosmopolitan vibe sits alongside intense national pride. A veritable survivor, Minsk is a city whose character is almost tangible - having time and time again throughout its tumultuous history, refused to say 'die'.

Brest is another city of interest. Nestled on the Polish border, Brest is possessed of charm and an abundance of history, also possibly the most Western of all the Belarusian cities.

Outside of the cities, travellers will discover wide plains, picturesque villages, ancient castles, monasteries and dense forests, not to mention thousands of lakes. National parks protect some of the continent's largest marshlands, as well as some of Europe's oldest untouched woodlands, including Bialowieza Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The countryside also offers the chance to see some of the last remaining collective farms in action.

While Belarus may still represent a corner of Eastern Europe that's still developing in the wake of some difficult times, travellers who give this destination the time it deserves will reap the rewards and are sure to enjoy a colourful, compelling country.

207,595 sq km (80,153 sq miles).

9,508,000 (2017).

45.8 per sq km.

President Alexander Lukashenko since 1994.

Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko since 2020.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

FCDO  advises against all travel to Belarus

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Russian military operations are taking place in Belarus. There is some risk that direct conflict linked to the war in Ukraine may spread to Belarus.

If conflict starts, FCDO ’s ability to offer consular assistance will be severely limited. Routes out of the country are limited, particularly by air.

Find out more about safety and security in Belarus.

Dual nationality

Belarus does not recognise dual nationality. If you have both Belarusian and British passports, the authorities will consider you Belarusian, even if you enter the country on your British passport. This limits the UK government’s ability to provide consular assistance.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and potential expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a ‘British Citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Belarus set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how Belarus’s entry requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy of Belarus in the UK .

Travel from and to Ukraine

FCDO advises against all travel to Ukraine, including from Belarus.

British nationals cannot currently cross the Belarus-Ukraine border. If you travelled to Belarus from Ukraine and need assistance, contact the British Embassy Minsk on +375 17 229 8200 or send an enquiry using the web contact form .

Travel from and to Russia

FCDO advises against all travel to Russia, including from Belarus.

If you travelled to Belarus from Russia and need assistance, contact the British Embassy Minsk on +375 17 229 8200.

The Russian government states that there are no legal grounds for foreigners (including British nationals) to cross the Russia-Belarus state land border including by road, bus or rail. If you try to do this, you will be refused boarding or stopped at the border.

Events involving Russia are fast-moving. You are strongly advised to check FCDO ’s Russia travel advice , which advises against all travel to Russia.

Air travel to Russia

FCDO is not aware of any difficulties for British nationals travelling by air between Belarus and Russia. However, make sure you get an exit stamp in your passport when you leave Belarus. If you don’t, you will not be allowed back in on your next visit.

Make sure you have the correct visas for your entire visit to Russia. You can find more information on the website of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in London .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 related travel restrictions for Belarus.

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel provider for changes.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

Visit TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre) for general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Passport validity requirements

Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.

To visit Belarus, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months from the date you arrive.

Children of Belarusian passport holders

Under-16s who do not have a Belarusian passport but have a parent who does, must have a Belarusian embassy or consulate-issued travel certificate to enter Belarus. This applies wherever they were born and whatever other nationality they may have. Parents of children entering on this document should liaise with the Belarusian authorities (State Border Committee, Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Foreign Affairs) to make sure their children also have the relevant documentation to exit Belarus.

Visa requirements

All British nationals (except those entering on a diplomatic or official passport ) arriving by air can enter Belarus for up to 30 days without a visa.

The 30-day visa free rules are allowed for British nationals arriving and departing from the following international airports:

If you want to stay longer than 30 days you’ll need a visa.

If you are travelling from the EU to Belarus by car or bus over a land border, the visa-free arrangement does not apply and you’ll need a visa. You can find more information on the website of the Embassy of Belarus in the UK .

If you’re travelling directly from or to Russia, the visa-free arrangement does not apply and you’ll need a visa. You can find more information on the website of the Embassy of Belarus in the UK .

Visas for travelling through Belarus

You don’t need a visa to transit Belarus by air, but the maximum period you can remain airside (in the airport without going through border control) is 24 hours. You must get a transit visa in all other circumstances, including if you are travelling on any regional rail routes.

If you try to transit Belarus in other circumstances without a visa, the border authorities will send you to Minsk to get the appropriate visa. You could also be deported or fined up to 300 US dollars.

Visa-free visits to the Brest and Grodno regions

You can visit some regions of Belarus for short periods without a visa via a land border, including:

• Augustouski Canal
• Belovezhskaya Pushcha

However, you must arrange your visit and itinerary through a registered tour operator and travel through specific border checkpoints. To do this, you must check information on the Grodno Visa-Free website .

Insurance requirements

When you apply for your visa or when you arrive at the airport or travel into Belarus via a land border, you will need to show documentary evidence of medical insurance to the value of 10,000 euros and funds equivalent to 25 euros per day. This can be in the form of cash, credit card or travellers cheques in any currency. Contact the Embassy of Belarus for full details.

Journalists

If you plan to work as a journalist in Belarus, you must get accreditation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus before you travel.

Registering accommodation

It is a legal requirement for accommodation providers to register any foreign guest staying for more than 10 days in Belarus. Registration will normally be arranged by your hotel. If you’re staying with someone, check that they’re doing this. You can register online (this page may not be accessible from all countries) or with the local police office (OVIR) in the district in which you’re staying. There are fines for not registering in time. Further information can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

Customs rules

If you are carrying more than 10,000 US dollars in cash or travellers cheques, you must complete a currency and goods declaration form. You must do this both when you enter and leave Belarus. The form must be stamped by a customs officer.

You are not allowed to take more currency out of Belarus than you declared when you arrived. Keep your entry declaration forms for the duration of your visit. When you leave Belarus, you will complete a new form, but you must also show the entry form. If you do not, you could be delayed and fined.

Read this guidance alongside FCDO ’s overall travel advice and warnings for Belarus .

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Belarus, attacks cannot be ruled out.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on  staying safe abroad  and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out  how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Attacks could happen anywhere and could affect western interests and places visited by foreigners.

Political situation

Demonstrations and protests are possible and could become confrontational, with security forces likely to use force to disperse and detain demonstrators. Belarusian authorities launched a violent crackdown against demonstrators across Belarus after the 2020 presidential elections and is currently a repressive environment. You should:

• stay vigilant
• avoid crowds
• if protests break out, leave the area immediately

There is often a heightened security forces presence on the streets of Minsk and other major cities. Security forces (some may be in plain clothes) might carry out a stop and search or ask for identification documents. Make sure you carry your passport or a photocopy of the photo page of your passport, and visa if you have one.

Russian military operations

The Belarusian authorities are facilitating Russia’s war against Ukraine. Russian military operations are taking place inside Belarus. The situation is unpredictable and could escalate without warning. This has increased the risk of conflict within Belarusian borders. If conflict takes place, FCDO ’s ability to offer consular assistance may be limited. Events in Ukraine are fast-moving.

There is high risk of military activity in places where there are Russian and Belarusian military personnel and equipment, including:

• Baranovichi

Avoid restricted areas reserved for military exercises or operations. Do not take photographs of security forces’ activity (including police and military), and establishments or sites of strategic importance, including government buildings and critical infrastructure. This is illegal. There may not be warning signs in locations where prohibitions are in place. If in doubt, leave potentially restricted areas immediately.

Monitor local media, sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated, and read our advice on how to deal with a crisis overseas .

There is little crime in Belarus, but be alert to the possibility of street crime and theft from vehicles or hotel rooms.

Border crossings

There may be long queues at borders. Customs and immigration can be lengthy and bureaucratic. Ignore any private facilitators who offer to help you pass through checkpoints.

You must be able to produce original vehicle ownership documents at border crossings. If you’re not the owner, you will need a letter of ‘power of attorney’. You must have car insurance. There is more information about insurance requirements on the State Border Committee website .

Do not overstay or break the temporary import terms and conditions for your vehicle. If you do, your vehicle could be confiscated at the border or at an in-country police checkpoint.

Polish border

The situation close to the Polish border is unpredictable. Currently, only the Terespol-Brest border crossing point remains open with Belarus for passenger travel. This border crossing may close or implement restrictions at short notice. You should check this before any travel across the border. The latest information can be found on the Polish State Border Guard website.

Lithuania border

On 1 March 2024, the Lithuanian authorities closed two further border crossing points with Belarus. Currently, only two border crossing points between Lithuania and Belarus remain open:  Medininkai -Kamenny Log and Šalčininkai-Benyakoni. Further border crossings may close or implement restrictions at short notice. Check before you travel across the border, the latest information on the Belarus-Lithuania border can be  found on the Lithuanian Ministry of the Interior website.

Latvian border

In September 2023, Latvian authorities closed the Silene-Urbany border crossing point with Belarus. Currently, only the Paternieki-Grigorovshchina border crossing point between Latvia and Belarus remains open. However, this border crossing may close or implement restrictions at short notice. You should check before you travel. The latest information can be found on the Latvian State Border Guard website.

Transport risks in Belarus

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Belarus, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC guidance .

You need car insurance to drive in Belarus. There is more information about insurance requirements on the State Border Committee website .

Driving regulations

Drivers with foreign licence plates must pay a fee to use toll rods or face a fine. For more information, see the BelToll website .

For information on speed limits, including rules for visiting motorists, see the RAC guidance on driving in Belarus .

There is a zero-tolerance policy towards drink driving. Depending on the situation, penalties can include fines or imprisonment.

There are police checkpoints on routes throughout the country. Stop when instructed and have vehicle documentation available.

Driving standards

The quality of driving in Belarus is unpredictable. A-class highways are in good condition. The condition of B-class roads varies. Some are impassable for periods in winter. Road works and potholes are usually poorly marked.

See the RAC guide on driving in Belarus.

There are no direct flights between Belarus and the UK.

Since mid-2021 all Belarusian airlines have been banned from flying into the UK. The EU has closed its airspace to Belarusian registered aircraft and has sanctioned Belavia the Belarusian state owned carrier.

The UK has sanctioned the Belarusian air traffic control operator.  Due to international restrictions on Belavia, they may not have access to components which are needed for the safe maintenance of their aircraft.

HMG staff do not use Belavia.

The UK has placed sanctions on some Russian airlines, including Aeroflot, Rossiya Airlines and Ural. It is illegal for any British national or company in the UK to do business with these airlines, including buying airline tickets.

Rail travel

There are frequent standard security checks at some stations on the Minsk Metro. Transport police may ask to scan your bags. You must comply with this. You could be arrested if you refuse.

Pedestrians

You could be fined for jaywalking.

Chernobyl site

There’s an exclusion zone immediately around the Chernobyl site. This includes the area close to the border with Ukraine in the south east of Belarus. Access to this part of the country is limited. The risk of radioactive contamination from the Chernobyl site is insignificant elsewhere.

Laws and cultural differences

There are severe penalties for drug-related crime. These include prison sentences of up to 5 years for drug possession and up to 25 years for more serious drug-related offences.

LGBT+ travellers

Homosexual relationships are legal in Belarus. However, Belarus is still a conservative society and the LGBT+ scene is very low profile. Very few LGBT+ people are open about their sexuality. Read more advice for LGBT travellers .

Photography

Avoid taking photographs of all government buildings, military installations and uniformed officials. You will be asked to delete photos and there may be other penalties.

Importing goods for charitable purposes

If you want to import goods or services for charitable purposes, consult the Embassy of Belarus in the UK for advice about local procedures and tariffs. If you think your goods will be exempt from Belarusian taxation, get written confirmation from the Embassy of Belarus in the UK .

FCDO advises against all travel to Belarus. Because of potential security challenges linked to Russia’s war with Ukraine, we advise against commissioning new surrogacy arrangements in Belarus.

If you are a British national with current surrogacy arrangements in Belarus, contact FCDO on 01908 516 666 if you have not already done so.

If you already have surrogacy arrangements in place:

• You may wish to ask your surrogacy agency about the safest location where all parties to the surrogacy arrangement can stay. The FCDO cannot facilitate evacuation.
• In many cases, Belarusian law requires that the surrogate is married. This could affect British nationality for a child born under such a surrogacy arrangement. You should seek specialist UK legal advice about nationality determinations, Parental Orders and what you need for travel documents.
• Seek in-country legal advice. This is important for issues like legalising UK documents, notarising Belarusian documents, document processing and the maximum period of stay the authorities will allow. Due to the security challenges, FCDO cannot confirm which lawyers are currently offering services. The surrogacy process in Belarus can be lengthy and complicated.

If you are considering changing your surrogacy arrangements, or making a new arrangement in another country, read the guidance for intended parents planning for international surrogacy .

Using foreign credit and debit cards

There are plenty of ATMs in major cities. However, there are currently problems withdrawing cash using foreign credit and debit cards. Almost all major banks in Belarus do not accept foreign-issued cards. Those banks that do may charge a higher commission.

There is also limited cash available. Many ATMs have limits on the amount of cash you can withdraw, particularly for foreign cards. Not all cards will be accepted in Belarus. Many reputable international money transfer providers have suspended operations in Belarus. Consider having cash in US dollars or euros if you decide to visit Belarus.

The UK government has imposed sanctions against a range of Belarusian companies and individuals. These may impact on financial transactions.

Exchanging currency

It can be difficult to exchange British pounds for Belarusian roubles. US dollars and Euros are more widely accepted. You may be asked to present your passport at a foreign currency exchange. Use government-licensed booths to exchange currency. You can find these in or near major stores, hotels and banks. If you exchange money elsewhere, you could be fined or arrested and the currency will be confiscated. You cannot exchange Belarusian roubles into other currencies outside Belarus.

Bank services

If you’re travelling to Belarus, speak to your UK bank before you go. Because of sanctions against Belarus, your bank may block your card if you use it in Belarus. Many banks have suspended their services in Belarus, so please check with your provider.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

The standard of healthcare is below that of the UK.

See FCDO ’s list of English-speaking healthcare providers in Belarus .

Emergency medical number

Dial 103 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Most people in Belarus only speak Russian or Belarusian, so emergency services staff may not speak English. You may need to find someone who speaks English to interpret for you.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks on TravelHealthPro
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

If you might have COVID-19

If you develop COVID-19 symptoms in Belarus, call the emergency services on 103. You will be directed to your nearest Regional Public Health Care Centre. Have your medical insurance details available.

You should bring essential personal medication because the availability of local supplies cannot be guaranteed.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

For more information on the legal status of a specific medicine, contact the  Embassy of Belarus in the UK .

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro .

Drinking water quality

Do not drink village well water. It is usually heavily contaminated with impurities. In cities, boil then filter tap water before drinking. Bottled water is widely available.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Belarus

Ambulance: 103

Police: 102

Find out about call charges

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Belarus
• dealing with a death in Belarus
• being arrested in Belarus
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you are affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack.

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy Minsk .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks

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Belarus to pull away from Europe conventional forces treaty already abandoned by Russia

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TALLINN, Estonia (AP) — The authoritarian president of Belarus on Friday said the country would suspend participation in the troubled Conventional Forces in Europe treaty that once was a key security doctrine for the continent.

President Alexander Lukashenko introduced a bill calling for the suspension to the parliament, which is fully under his control.

The treaty, signed in 1990, places limits on tanks, combat vehicles, warplanes and heavy artillery that can be deployed in Europe. It aimed at keeping a military balance between the West and the countries that were part of the Cold War-era Warsaw Pact.

However, Russia withdrew entirely from the treaty in 2023 and NATO countries that were parties to it responded by suspending their participation . By standing aside from the treaty, Belarus could expand its military.

“The suspension of Belarus’ participation in the CFE Treaty affects the balance of power and security in the entire Euro-Atlantic region and sends a signal to Western countries that Minsk intends to become an active military player in the region,” Belarusian military analyst Alexander Alesin told The Associated Press.

Belarus hosts Russian tactical nuclear weapons, along with missiles and troops. The country has been used by Russia as a staging point for sending troops into Ukraine, but Belarusian forces have not taken part in the war that is now in its third year.