Who Needs a Work Permit in Belarus
In Belarus, foreign nationals wishing to work must obtain a work permit unless they fall under specific exemptions. Typically, this applies to all employees who are not citizens of Belarus, including those from the European Union or other countries outside the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
Employers must ensure that any non-citizen employee has the necessary work permit before starting employment. This includes highly skilled professionals, skilled workers, and temporary workers. For employers looking to hire international staff, understanding who needs a work permit is the first step in the recruitment process.
Types of Work Visas in Belarus
Belarus offers several work visa types based on the employee’s role, duration of stay, and nationality. Foreign nationals may need different types of visas, depending on whether they are coming for short-term employment or more extended assignments.
The main types of work visas available in Belarus include:
| Visa Type | Description |
| Single Entry Work Visa | This visa allows foreign workers to enter Belarus once for a short-term work assignment, typically up to 90 days. |
| Multiple Entry Work Visa | For workers who need to travel in and out of Belarus multiple times, allowing a longer stay, usually for up to one year. |
| Temporary Work Visa | Aimed at workers on temporary contracts, this visa is usually valid for up to 1 year and is renewable. |
| Permanent Work Visa | For individuals planning to reside and work in Belarus long-term. It is granted to workers on long-term contracts or those seeking permanent residency. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Belarus
When hiring talent in Belarus, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Belarus. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (approximately 3-6 weeks), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Belarus.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Belarus
Independent professionals in Belarus can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Belarusian Ruble (BYN) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Belarus.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Belarus
Transferring an existing team member to Belarus? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Europe, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements For a Work Permit in Belarus
To obtain a work permit in Belarus, the employer and employee must meet specific requirements. The process is typically straightforward but requires careful attention to legal and administrative details.
In general, the requirements for a Belarusian work permit include:
- A valid employment contract or offer of employment.
- A medical certificate proving the employee is fit to work in Belarus.
- Proof that no qualified Belarusian citizen is available for the position (for certain roles).
- A document confirming the foreign employee’s qualifications, skills, or experience for the job.
Belarus Work Permit Application Process
The application process for a work permit in Belarus involves several steps, both for the employer and the foreign employee. Below are the steps involved:
- The employer must submit a request to the Belarusian Ministry of Internal Affairs or the local executive committee for permission to hire a foreign national.
- The employer must provide a copy of the employee's work contract, medical certificate, and other necessary documents.
- The Ministry will review the application, and if approved, will issue the work permit.
- Once the work permit is granted, the employee must apply for a visa if they are not already in Belarus.
- The employee enters Belarus, where they must register their residence within 5 business days.
Process for Visa Sponsorship In Belarus
Visa sponsorship in Belarus is required for employers who want to hire foreign workers. The process involves the employer submitting necessary documents to the Ministry of Internal Affairs or local authority, along with proof of the employee's qualifications and job offer. The employer must also provide evidence that the position cannot be filled by a Belarusian citizen, except for specific cases where exceptions apply (such as highly skilled or managerial roles). The employer's active participation ensures that the visa and work permit process progresses smoothly.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Belarus
The fees for obtaining work permits and visas in Belarus depend on the type of visa or work permit applied for and the processing times involved.
| Visa Type | Application Fee |
| Single Entry Work Visa | €40 |
| Multiple Entry Work Visa | €100 |
| Temporary Work Visa | €50 |
| Permanent Work Visa | €150 |
Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Belarus
The processing time for work permits and visas in Belarus typically takes between 15 to 30 business days, depending on the type of visa and the completeness of the application. Shorter processing times may be available for expedited requests, but these are generally subject to additional fees.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Belarus
Work permits in Belarus are generally valid for up to one year, though some permits may be issued for shorter periods, especially for temporary assignments. Renewals are possible if the foreign employee continues to meet all the requirements. Employers should begin the renewal process well in advance to ensure uninterrupted employment for their foreign staff.
Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Belarus
Belarus does not currently have a specific visa tailored for digital nomads. However, employees working remotely for foreign companies may be eligible for a standard work visa if they meet the general criteria. Employers looking to hire remote workers must ensure that their employees have the appropriate visa and permit before they begin working from Belarus.
- Proof of Remote Employment: Digital nomads must provide evidence that they are employed remotely, either through a contract or other documentation.
- Income Requirements: There may be minimum income thresholds that must be met for a digital nomad to obtain a visa.
- Health Insurance: Foreign workers, including digital nomads, must show proof of valid health insurance coverage during their stay in Belarus.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Belarus
When hiring foreign workers in Belarus, employers may face several challenges, from navigating visa and work permit processes to ensuring legal compliance.
- Language Barriers: While many Belarusians speak Russian, employers may face language barriers when dealing with official documentation.
- Complex Paperwork: The work permit application process can involve extensive paperwork, requiring close attention to detail.
- Approval Delays: Processing times may vary, and employers should factor in potential delays in securing work permits and visas for foreign employees.
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