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Yes, a work permit is generally required for short-term employment in Belarus, even if the duration of employment is limited. Belarusian immigration law mandates that foreign nationals must have legal authorization to work, regardless of the length of the job or the sector in which they are employed. However, there are a few exceptions and conditions that apply depending on the nature of the work, nationality of the employee, and the duration of stay.
1. General Rule: Work Permit is Mandatory
According to the legislation of the Republic of Belarus, any foreign national intending to engage in paid work within the country must obtain a work permit issued by the Department of Citizenship and Migration under the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
This includes:
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Full-time or part-time positions
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Temporary contracts
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Consultancy assignments
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Project-based short-term employment
Even if the employment period is less than 90 days, a permit is typically required.
2. Short-Term Work Authorization Process
In most cases, the employer in Belarus must initiate the process by:
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Submitting an application to hire a foreign worker.
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Demonstrating the necessity of hiring a foreign national (labor market test may be required).
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Applying for the Special Work Permit (valid up to 1 year, including for short-term employment).
Once the permit is issued, the foreign worker can apply for a visa (if required) and then begin working legally in Belarus.
3. Exceptions to the Rule
There are a few categories of individuals who may be exempt from the requirement to obtain a work permit, even for short-term jobs:
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Citizens of Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) countries, such as Russia, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan, do not need a work permit to work in Belarus.
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Business visa holders who are participating in short-term events (like seminars, trainings, or trade negotiations) and are not being paid locally may not require a work permit.
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Certain professionals—such as journalists accredited in Belarus, diplomats, or intergovernmental organization staff—may also be exempt.
It is important to consult with Belarusian authorities or a legal expert to determine if an exemption applies in a specific case.
4. Consequences of Non-Compliance
Working without a valid permit—even for a few days—can lead to:
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Fines for both the employer and the employee
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Deportation of the foreign worker
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A temporary ban on re-entry into Belarus
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Legal penalties for the employer, including restrictions on hiring foreigners in the future
5. Recommendations
If you are planning short-term employment in Belarus:
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Confirm with your employer whether a permit is required in your specific case.
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Begin the permit process well in advance of your travel or work start date.
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If you are from an EAEU country, verify that you are exempt and keep documentation ready to prove your status.
Conclusion
In most cases, a work permit is required for short-term employment in Belarus, regardless of the job duration. Only a few categories of foreign nationals and professionals are exempt from this requirement. It is crucial to comply with Belarusian labor and immigration regulations to avoid legal complications.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For the most accurate and updated information, please consult the official website of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Belarus or contact a licensed immigration professional.
June 25, 2025
