Belarus has officially extended its visa-free entry program until the end of 2026, allowing citizens of selected European countries to travel without a visa. This decision makes short-term travel easier for tourists, business visitors, and transit travelers.
In addition to visa-free access, Belarus also continues to offer an electronic visa (e-visa) option for travelers from many other countries.
How Long Is Visa-Free Entry to Belarus Valid?
The visa-free travel regime to Belarus has been extended until December 31, 2026.
Eligible travelers can continue entering Belarus without applying for a visa, provided they meet the entry requirements.
Countries Eligible for Visa-Free Travel to Belarus
Citizens of the following 38 European countries may enter Belarus without a visa:
Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, North Macedonia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, United Kingdom, Vatican City.
Requirements for Visa-Free Travel to Belarus
Visa-free entry is allowed if travelers meet these conditions:
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A valid passport
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Purpose of visit: tourism, business, or transit
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No visa required for the intended activity
Important:
Transit through Belarus is allowed only if you are not travelling onward to Russia.
Length of Stay Under the Visa-Free Regime
The permitted length of stay depends on nationality:
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Up to 30 days for most eligible countries
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Up to 90 days for citizens of Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia (including non-citizens of Latvia)
Overstaying may result in fines or future entry restrictions.
Who Is Not Eligible for Visa-Free Entry?
Visa-free travel does not apply to:
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Holders of diplomatic or service passports
Exception:
Holders of EU biometric diplomatic passports are allowed visa-free entry.
How Popular Is Visa-Free Travel to Belarus?
Visa-free travel has shown strong demand:
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Over 1.24 million European visitors since 2024
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More than 210,000 tourists in 2025 alone
Top visiting countries:
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Lithuania: 658,575 visitors
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Latvia: 399,842 visitors
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Poland: 130,089 visitors
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Other countries: 54,845 visitors
Electronic Visa (E-Visa) to Belarus
Alongside visa-free entry, Belarus also operates an electronic visa system, introduced in March 2025.
The e-visa is useful for travelers who:
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Are not eligible for visa-free entry
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Need flexibility for specific travel purposes
What Is a Belarus Electronic Visa?
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus:
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Single-entry visa
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Valid for up to 30 days
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Issued entirely online
Permitted purposes include:
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Tourism and private visits
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Business travel
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Internship or study
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Cultural, sports, or scientific events
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Educational programs
How to Apply for an Electronic Visa to Belarus
Step 1 – Create an Account
Register on the official E-Pasluga portal (website or mobile app).
Step 2 – Complete the Online Application
Choose service code 3.04.01 – Issuance of an Electronic Visa.
Step 3 – Pay the Visa Fee
Online payment via Visa or Mastercard.
Step 4 – Wait for Processing
Applications are reviewed within 7 calendar days.
Step 5 – Receive the E-Visa
The approved visa is issued electronically. Carry a digital or printed copy when entering Belarus.
Cost of a Belarus Electronic Visa
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EU citizens: €35
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Other countries: €60
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Japan: Free of charge
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Children under 12 (EU) and under 14 (others): Free
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Additional service fee: €6
Countries Eligible for the Belarus Electronic Visa
Citizens from the following regions can apply for a Belarus e-visa:
Europe:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom.
Americas:
Canada, Chile, Mexico, United States, Uruguay, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, El Salvador, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Asia-Pacific:
Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Malaysia, Micronesia, South Korea, Singapore, Indonesia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Vanuatu.
Other Countries:
Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City, North Macedonia, Seychelles.
What to See in Belarus
Belarus offers a mix of culture, history, and nature:
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Minsk: Modern city life, museums, wide avenues, and parks
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Brest: Home to the historic Brest Fortress
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Vitebsk & Mogilev: Art, galleries, and historic churches
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Bialowieza Forest: UNESCO-listed forest with European bison
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Narochansky National Park: Lakes, forests, and outdoor activities
Practical Travel Tips for Belarus
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Passport should be valid for at least 6 months
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Carry accommodation confirmation
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Plan early for peak seasons
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Respect transit and safety rules
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Consider an e-visa for specific travel needs
Final Notes
Belarus continues to simplify travel through visa-free entry for Europeans and electronic visas for other nationalities. These policies encourage tourism, business cooperation, and cultural exchange.
Even for short trips, travel insurance is strongly recommended to protect against unexpected situations such as medical emergencies or lost luggage.
Travel to Belarus prepared, informed, and confident.