Essential Employment Paperwork in Belarus
Belarus is one of the nations in Eastern Europe that offers employment opportunities from a wide selection of businesses and industries. Expats who are eyeing job posts in this country should prepare all the required paperwork to ensure that there’ll be no bumps in their journey towards success.
Except for Russians, all other foreign nationals are required to have a work permit in Belarus. Before acquiring one, the expatriate's future employer should first have the permission of the government to employ a foreigner in the workplace. Only then can the company apply for a work permit to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Belarus. Applications will be considered within 15 business days, and those that have been approved have a validity period of one year from the approval date. Upon issuance of the work permit, the foreign national should apply for a work visa.
Work Visa
The short term visa (Type C) is the most common type of visa issued for business or employment purposes and is valid for a maximum of 90 days with the rights of single, double or multiple entries. Expats who will apply for the short term visa are required to present a copy of their work permit that is issued by the Citizen and Migration Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
The processing time typically takes about five business days upon filing of the request. Consular fees vary depending on the applicant's nationality, but the average cost for a single entry short term visa is €60. Other supporting documents that expats must submit during their application at the Belarusian Consulate/Embassy in their home country are:
- One copy of a duly signed application form
- One passport-sized photograph
- Passport with at least 90 days validity after the expiration date of the visa
- Proof of medical insurance contract
- Proof of Payment of the Consular fee
Residence Permit
Expats who have a work term longer than 90 days must apply for a temporary residence permit at the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs near the place of their residence. Take note that this type of permit only allows its holder to stay in Belarus longer three months but not more than one year. Once it expires, an expat must leave the country and apply for a new temporary permit or a permanent residence permit. The processing time for a temporary residence permit takes about 15 business days and in most cases, applicants must appear in person at the office of the Department of Citizenship.