Let’s be real. Belarus probably isn’t at the top of your list when you think about working abroad. It’s not exactly splashed across travel blogs or trending on LinkedIn. But maybe… that’s part of the appeal. If you’re even thinking about Belarus work visa, this guide is for you. We’ll break it down step by step, no jargon, no fluff, just what you actually need to know.
Why Belarus?
Honestly, people are often surprised when they hear we help folks move to Belarus for work. But once we talk through the details, it starts to make sense.
Here’s why:
1. It’s Budget Friendly
The cost of living is low, especially if you’re coming from Western Europe or even parts of Asia. Rent is affordable, groceries won’t break the bank, and you won’t need to hustle for a second job just to stay afloat.
2. A Calm, Steady Pace
Belarus isn’t a chaotic rush of lights and crowds. Life here moves slower, and people appreciate structure. If you’re someone who values routine and simplicity, this can be a huge plus.
3. Job Openings Especially in Tech and Manufacturing
Companies in Belarus are expanding, and there’s real demand for skilled workers, particularly in IT, engineering, logistics, and construction. Local talent doesn’t always meet that demand, so there’s space for international professionals to step in.
What Type of Visa Do You Need?
Alright, let’s get into the technical stuff (but we’ll keep it simple).
If you want to work in Belarus, you’ll need one of these two visa types:
Short Term Work Visa (Type C)
For jobs or contracts that last under 90 days. Think of it as a temporary pass, good for short projects or visits, but not for long term relocation.
Long Term Work Visa (Type D)
This is the one most people go for. It’s valid for more than 90 days and often used by people who have a full-time job offer. It can also lead to a temporary residence permit, which is key if you plan to stay for a year or longer.
Read more: Thinking About Studying in UK? Here’s What You Should Know
Step by Step: How to Apply for a Belarus Work Visa
We know paperwork can be stressful, especially when it’s in a language you don’t speak. That’s why we’ve broken this down like we would for a friend:
Step 1: Get a Job Offer
No job, no visa. Your first step is to find a company in Belarus that wants to hire you. Most people apply online through job portals, but we’ve also helped people get placed through our own I-Taz.
Step 2: Your Employer Applies for a Work Permit
Once you’re hired, the company applies for a work permit on your behalf. You won’t need to do much here, but you do need to wait. This part can take 2-3 weeks.
Step 3: Gather Your Documents
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months left before expiry)
- Your signed job contract
- Proof of education or skills (diplomas, certificates, etc.)
- Health insurance that works in Belarus
- Proof of where you’ll stay (hotel booking or rental agreement)
- A few passport sized photos
- The visa application form
If your documents aren’t in Russian or Belarusian, you’ll likely need to get them translated and possibly notarized. We can help with that too.
Step 4: Apply at Your Local Belarusian Embassy
Once your Belarus work visa permit is ready, you take your documents to the embassy or consulate near you. Some accept walk-ins, others need appointments, check ahead.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Fees vary by country, but it’s usually somewhere between $60 and $120. Processing usually takes 5 to 10 business days.
Once You Arrive in Belarus
You’ve landed. Now what?
Temporary Residence Permit (TRP)
If you’re planning to stay for more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a TRP. It lets you live and work legally in Belarus for up to one year (and it can be renewed).
You’ll need:
- Your visa and work permit
- Proof of your job and salary
- A medical check-up (done locally)
- Proof of your current address
- Updated health insurance
Register Your Address
Within five business days of arriving, you have to register your address with the local immigration office. If you’re staying at a hotel, they usually handle this. If you’re renting a place, your landlord might help, or you might need to do it yourself.
What’s It Really Like Living in Belarus?
No sugarcoating here, moving to a new country always comes with adjustments. But here’s what our clients usually notice first:
- Language Barrier: Most people speak Russian, and English isn’t super common outside of the capital. A translation app will become your best friend.
- Internet & Tech: The tech scene is better than you might expect. Internet speeds are decent, and there’s a growing IT industry.
- Work Culture: Punctuality matters. Meetings start on time, and work is usually taken seriously. That said, people are respectful and often helpful to newcomers.
- Healthcare: Public healthcare is available, but most expats prefer to visit private clinics, which are still pretty affordable.
Common Questions We Hear at I-Taz
Can I bring my spouse or kids?
Yes. Once you get your temporary residence permit, your family members can apply for dependent visas. You’ll need to prove your income is enough to support them.
Can I switch jobs later?
Yes, but it’s not as simple as just quitting and moving on. Your new employer would need to apply for a new work permit. It’s doable, but plan ahead.
Is it safe?
Belarus is generally safe. The cities are clean, and crime rates are low. Like anywhere, just use common sense.
Final Thoughts: Is Belarus Right for You?
Belarus isn’t the easiest place to adjust to but for the right person, it offers a calm, affordable, and stable place to live and work. It won’t give you the buzz of Berlin or the chaos of Bangkok, but it will give you space to breathe, work, and grow.
And if that sounds like something you’re looking for, we’re here to help.
At I-Taz, we guide people through the full process, from the first job search to visa paperwork to getting settled in a new apartment in Minsk. We know how overwhelming it can feel, and we don’t expect you to figure it all out on your own.
Want to talk it through?
We offer one on one consultations for people who:
- Want help finding job openings
- Need support with visa paperwork
- Have questions about life in Belarus
- Just want to know if this is even the right move
Let’s take the guesswork out of the process. Reach out to the I-Taz team today and let’s figure out if Belarus is your next stop.
