Navigating Work Visas in Belarus. A Guide for Global Employers and Talent

Understanding work visas and authorizations in Belarus

Belarus is considered the “Lungs of Europe” because approximately 40% of it is covered by forests. The country has emerged as a point of interest for businesses expanding into Eastern Europe, offering a strategic location and competitive labor costs. International employers looking to tap into Belarus' skilled workforce must first understand the country-specific nuances of work visas and authorizations. These permits enable foreign nationals to work legally in Belarus—and just as importantly—ensure employers comply with immigration laws.

Several categories of visas and work permits are available. The most common include.

• Short-term business visa (Type C). Suitable for short stays, often for business meetings or exploratory visits, and typically valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
• Long-term work visa (Type D). Issued to foreign nationals planning to work in Belarus for more than 90 days.
• Special work permits. These are required in addition to a visa, issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and are mandatory before employment begins.

It’s important to distinguish between a work visa and a work permit. A visa grants entry into the country, while a work permit authorizes employment. Both are typically required for foreign workers.

Eligibility criteria for employers and employees

Employers in Belarus must obtain permission from local authorities to hire foreign nationals. They must also prove that no qualified Belarusian candidates were available for the role, unless the employee qualifies for an exemption.

Employees must meet several requirements.

• Valid passport and health insurance
• Proof of qualifications or relevant experience
• A confirmed job offer from a Belarus-based employer

One common barrier to eligibility is the language barrier—many roles require at least basic proficiency in Russian or Belarusian. Additionally, Belarus applies quota systems for specific sectors and nationalities, which can affect hiring timelines.

Step-by-step process for obtaining a work visa

1. Prepare required documentation. This includes the employment contract, educational credentials, a valid passport, and health insurance.
2. Secure a work permit. The employer applies to the local office of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, which typically takes 15 to 30 days.
3. Apply for a long-term visa (Type D). Once the work permit is issued, the foreign national can apply for a visa through a Belarusian embassy or consulate. Visa processing generally takes 5–10 business days.
4. Pay associated fees. These vary depending on nationality and visa type. As of early 2025, fees range from US$60 to US$150.
5. Wait for approval. The entire process—from documentation to visa issuance—typically takes 6-8 weeks, though this can vary depending on the case.

Employer responsibilities and sponsorship process

Employers are the primary sponsors in most visa applications. Their role includes submitting the initial application, providing supporting documents, and ensuring compliance with Belarusian labor laws.

Once a foreign employee begins work, the employer must maintain up-to-date records, notify authorities of any changes in employment status, and ensure the worker has proper housing and health coverage.

Failing to comply can result in penalties, including fines or restrictions on future hiring of foreign nationals.

Frequently asked questions about working in Belarus

Is it easy to get a job in Belarus? 

The job market in Belarus can be competitive, especially in industries like IT, manufacturing, and logistics. Foreigners with in-demand skills or multilingual abilities often have an edge. According to Trading Economics, the country’s unemployment rate in early 2025 remains relatively low, hovering around 4.2%.

Can employers sponsor visas? 

Yes. Employers play a key role in the visa and work permit process and must sponsor the application on behalf of the foreign worker.

What is the minimum salary for work permits? 

There is no publicly listed universal minimum for foreign work permits, but the salary offered must be in line with local wage standards. For reference, the average monthly wage in Belarus is approximately BYN1,800 (roughly US$550) as reported by Belstat.

How do you transition from temporary to permanent residency? 

After continuous legal residence for five years, including employment and language integration, foreign nationals may apply for a permanent residence permit. The Ministry of Internal Affairs also handles this application.

Tips and resources for a successful application

Navigating the Belarusian work visa process can be streamlined by adhering to best practices and leveraging available resources.

• Start early. Initiate the visa application process well in advance to accommodate potential delays.
• Accurate documentation. Ensure all submitted documents are complete and accurate to avoid processing setbacks.
• Stay informed. Regularly consult official sources like the Ministry of Internal Affairs for visa policy and procedure updates.
• Professional assistance. Consider engaging legal advisors or consultants familiar with Belarusian immigration laws to guide you through the process.

Partnering with an EOR provider for hiring support in Belarus

An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party organization that hires and pays an employee on behalf of another company, handling all formal employment tasks. Using an EOR can be particularly beneficial when expanding into Belarus, as they:

• Simplify compliance. Manage local employment laws and regulations, reducing legal risks.
• Handle payroll and benefits. Administer employee compensation, benefits, and tax withholdings following Belarusian laws.
• Accelerate market entry. Enable faster onboarding of employees without the need to establish a local entity.

By partnering with an EOR, companies can focus on their core business activities while ensuring compliance with local employment requirements.

How Velocity Global can help

Global expansion is a significant opportunity—and responsibility. Velocity Global assists businesses in maintaining compliance and efficiency when onboarding international talent in Belarus. Our Employer of Record (EOR) solution enables companies to hire abroad without establishing a local entity, managing everything from visa sponsorship to benefits administration and payroll.

With extensive expertise in international employment law and a robust global infrastructure, Velocity Global simplifies cross-border growth, helping businesses navigate the complexities of global expansion. Explore our global hiring guide for more information or reach out to discuss your plans for international expansion. 

This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or tax advice and is for general informational purposes only. The intent of this document is solely to provide general and preliminary information for private use. Do not rely on it as an alternative to legal, financial, taxation, or accountancy advice from an appropriately qualified professional. The content in this guide is provided “as is,” and no representations are made that the content is error-free. © 2025 Velocity Global, LLC. All rights reserved.