Extended Stay in Belarus - Options and Requirements
To stay in Belarus for long periods, there are three options:
1. Temporary Residence (дозвол на часовае пражыванне)
Temporary residence allows you to stay continuously in Belarus but must be renewed annually. It is granted to those who have a business, family, relatives, work, or investments in Belarus. The application must be submitted to the Department of Citizenship and Migration in the respective region. The required documentation depends on the purpose of the stay and will be specified by the Department. Required documents typically include annual medical insurance, a source of income, tax payments, and documentation specifying the purpose of the stay. The passport must be valid for the entire duration of temporary residence; otherwise, the temporary residence will be terminated early upon passport expiration. With Temporary Residence, you have the same rights and responsibilities as a tourist. Medical insurance coverage is valid for health issues as specified on the website. From a tax perspective, as non-resident Belarusians, there are no personal obligations. Temporary Residence allows you to stay in Belarus but does not permit crossing the border. On request, an optional visa for the same duration as Temporary Residence can also be issued, allowing crossing the border.
2. Residence Permit
The residence permit is issued by the Department of Citizenship and Migration. It is granted to those who have a business, family, relatives, work, or investments in Belarus. Initially issued for 1 year, it can be extended for a lifetime. To obtain the residence permit, documentation justifying the request, a source of income, and medical examinations are required. If you do not have work, family, or investments in Belarus, a presence in the country for at least 7 years is necessary. Medical insurance is not required. With the residence permit, you have the same rights and responsibilities as a Belarusian citizen, including access to medical care and enrollment in the tax system.
Both Temporary Residence and the Residence Permit can be terminated in case of misconduct, such as receiving fines. Traffic violations can also interrupt the residence permit.
3. Belarusian Passport
It is possible to apply for Belarusian citizenship at the Department of Citizenship. To apply, you must have a Residence Permit and be fluent in speaking and reading Russian or Belarusian. Applying for citizenship requires renouncing your current citizenship. The procedure takes some time.
For more information and updates on these options, stay tuned. The ability to personal help and support will be available soon.