How to Obtain a Work Permit in Belarus?

Belarus is becoming an attractive destination for foreign professionals, especially in sectors like IT, manufacturing, and logistics. If you are a non-Belarusian national planning to work in the country, you’ll likely need a work permit to be legally employed. This blog post provides a step-by-step guide to understanding the work permit system in Belarus, including eligibility, documentation, and the application process—without focusing on government fees.

1. Do You Need a Work Permit in Belarus?

If you are a citizen of a foreign country, you typically need a work permit to be employed in Belarus unless you fall into an exempt category.
Exemptions include:

• Citizens of EAEU countries (e.g., Russia, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan)

• Certain foreign investors or top-level executives

• Individuals with permanent or temporary residence in Belarus (depending on status)

2. Types of Work Permits in Belarus

Belarus issues two main types of employment authorization for foreign workers:

A. Special Work Permit (Individual)

This is the standard permit issued to foreign nationals working for a Belarusian employer. It is usually valid for 1 year and can be extended.

B. Special Work Permit for Group of Foreign Employees (Corporate)

Issued to organizations hiring multiple foreign workers under the same project or contract.

Note: Some visa types (e.g., business or visitor visas) do not allow employment and must be converted through the appropriate process.

3. Employer’s Role in the Process

In Belarus, the employer initiates the work permit process. The hiring company must:

• Be officially registered in Belarus.

• Justify the need for hiring a foreign national.

• Demonstrate efforts to fill the position locally (in most cases).

• Submit the application to the Department of Citizenship and Migration.

4. Required Documents (Typical List)

The employer or applicant must gather and submit several key documents, including:

• A valid passport (with notarized translation into Belarusian or Russian)

• Employment contract or official job offer

• Medical certificate confirming the applicant is free of contagious diseases (usually required from recognized clinics)

• Police clearance certificate (from the applicant’s home country)

• Notarized translations of educational qualifications (if applicable)

• Documents proving work experience and/or skills

• 2–4 recent passport-sized photos

All foreign-language documents must be translated into Belarusian or Russian and often require notarization.

5. Steps to Apply for a Work Permit in Belarus

Step 1: Job Offer

Secure a job offer from a Belarusian employer willing to sponsor your work permit.

Step 2: Document Preparation

Gather all required documents with certified translations and legalization where necessary.

Step 3: Employer Applies to Authorities

The employer submits the application to the Department of Citizenship and Migration under the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Step 4: Background Checks and Verification

Authorities may conduct background and qualification checks before issuing approval.

Step 5: Issuance of the Work Permit

If approved, a work permit card is issued. This allows the foreign worker to legally take up employment.

Step 6: Obtain a Belarusian Work Visa (if needed)

If the applicant is not already in Belarus, they will use the permit to apply for a Type D long-term work visa to enter the country.

Step 7: Register Residence

After arrival, the foreign national must register their address within 10 days.

6. Validity and Renewal

• A Belarusian work permit is usually valid for up to 1 year.

• It can be renewed annually upon submission of updated documents.

• Long-term employees may become eligible for temporary residence and eventually permanent residence.

7. Can You Change Jobs on a Belarusian Work Permit?

Generally, no. Work permits in Belarus are employer-specific. If you change employers:

• Your current permit becomes invalid.

• The new employer must apply for a new permit.

• You cannot start work at the new job until the new permit is approved.

8. Key Considerations

• Belarus has strict regulations on unauthorized employment—working without a permit can result in fines, deportation, or blacklisting.

• Health insurance is typically required and must be arranged before or upon arrival.

• You should always maintain valid legal residence while employed.

Conclusion

Getting a work permit in Belarus involves close coordination with your prospective employer and careful preparation of documents. While the process may seem bureaucratic, it is manageable with the right guidance. Knowing the rules, ensuring proper translation and legalization of your paperwork, and working with a compliant employer will help ensure a smooth entry into the Belarusian workforce.

If you're unsure about any step, consulting an immigration lawyer or local expert can provide additional peace of mind.