What are the eligibility criteria for obtaining a work visa in Belarus?

Foreign nationals who wish to work legally in the Republic of Belarus are required to obtain a Type D (long-term) visa, commonly referred to as a work visa, before entering the country. This visa allows entry for the purpose of employment and is typically granted on the basis of a valid work permit issued by the Belarusian authorities. To be eligible for a work visa, applicants must meet specific criteria and submit the required documentation.

1. Valid Employment Offer from a Belarusian Employer

The primary requirement for obtaining a work visa is having a confirmed job offer from a registered company or organization in Belarus. The employer must:

• Be legally registered in Belarus.

• Apply on behalf of the foreign national to obtain a special work permit (also known as a permit to engage a foreign labor force).

• Comply with labor and immigration regulations regarding the hiring of foreign nationals.

The work visa cannot be granted without prior approval of the work permit by the Department of Citizenship and Migration under the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Belarus.

2. Approved Work Permit

Before applying for the visa, the employer must secure a work permit for the employee. This document confirms that the foreigner is authorized to work in Belarus for a specific employer and position.

• Work permits are typically issued for up to one year, though certain high-skilled professionals may qualify for longer durations.

• The permit must be submitted along with the visa application.

3. Clean Criminal Record

Applicants must not have any pending criminal charges or serious past convictions that could pose a threat to national security or public order in Belarus.

In some cases, the embassy or consulate may request a police clearance certificate from the applicant's country of residence.

4. Medical Clearance (if applicable)

While not always mandatory for the visa itself, certain employers or sectors (e.g., healthcare, food services) may require a medical certificate confirming that the applicant is fit to work and free from infectious diseases.

5. Valid Passport

The applicant must hold a valid passport that meets the following conditions:

• It must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay in Belarus.

• It must have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

6. Additional Requirements

Other standard criteria for work visa eligibility include:

• Completed visa application form.

• Recent passport-size photographs.

• Proof of accommodation in Belarus (can be provided by the employer).

• Visa fee payment (the amount may vary by country).

• Letter of invitation or employment contract from the Belarusian employer.

7. Exemptions and Special Categories

Citizens of Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) countries (such as Russia, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan) do not require a work visa or work permit to be employed in Belarus, but may still need to register their stay.

Conclusion

To be eligible for a work visa in Belarus, foreign nationals must have a valid job offer, an approved work permit, and meet all legal and documentation requirements set by the Belarusian authorities. Employers play a key role in initiating the process, and compliance with immigration rules is essential for a successful application.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Visa rules and procedures are subject to change. For the most accurate and updated information, please consult the Belarusian embassy or consulate in your country or the official website of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Belarus.