Belarus Continues Visa-Free Travel Policy to Boost Tourism and Cross-Border Mobility
Belarus has officially extended its visa-free entry programme for citizens of 38 European countries through December 31, 2026, reinforcing its commitment to facilitating travel and strengthening regional mobility.
Originally introduced in July 2024, the visa-free regime was first extended through 2025 and has now been prolonged again under a new presidential decree, reflecting the programme’s growing success and impact on tourism and cross-border movement.
Visa-Free Entry Rules: Duration, Eligibility and Conditions
Under the extended policy, eligible travellers from 38 European countries can enter Belarus without a visa through:
- International road checkpoints
- Rail border crossings
- Belarusian airports
Visitors must carry a valid travel document and comply with the following conditions:
- Maximum stay: 30 days per entry
- Multiple entries allowed: Yes
- Annual limit: Total stay cannot exceed 90 days per calendar year
Special Stay Provisions
Citizens of Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia, as well as individuals with Latvia’s non-citizen status, are granted extended stays of up to 90 days per entry.
Travellers are also permitted to transit through Belarus to third countries, with the exception of the Russian Federation.
Who Is Not Eligible?
The visa-free regime does not apply to holders of:
- Diplomatic passports
- Service or official passports
However, biometric diplomatic passport holders from EU countries remain eligible under the existing EU–Belarus visa facilitation agreement.
Over 1.2 Million European Visitors Since Launch
The visa-free policy has significantly boosted tourism and regional travel. According to Belarus’s State Border Committee:
- Total visitors since 2024: Over 1.24 million European travellers
Top Visiting Countries
- Latvia: 399,842 visitors
- Lithuania: 658,575 visitors
- Poland: 130,089 visitors
Additionally, more than 54,000 travellers from 35 other European countries have visited Belarus, including over 22,000 German nationals.
In 2026 alone, more than 210,000 foreign visitors from eligible countries have already entered Belarus under the visa-free scheme.
Belarus Expands E-Visa Programme for Global Travellers
Alongside the visa-free initiative, Belarus has been strengthening its digital visa system. Since March 2025, the country has introduced an electronic visa (e-Visa) programme available to travellers from 67 countries.
According to the National Center for Electronic Services (NCES):
- Around 1,500 e-visas have been issued since launch
- Applicants include travellers from the United States, Germany, Japan, Canada, UK, France, Italy, Spain, and Australia
Officials report steady growth in applications, highlighting the programme’s expanding global reach.
Belarus Aims to Strengthen Tourism and International Connectivity
Belarusian authorities have emphasised their commitment to maintaining a welcoming environment for international visitors and economic partners.
The government aims to:
- Enhance tourism and cross-border travel
- Strengthen economic cooperation
- Promote Belarus as a safe and accessible destination
Officials state they are creating “comfortable and secure conditions” for travellers, while showcasing the country’s hospitality and openness.
Conclusion
The extension of Belarus’s visa-free regime until the end of 2026 highlights the country’s strategic focus on increasing tourism and facilitating international mobility.
Combined with its expanding e-visa programme, Belarus is positioning itself as a more accessible destination for European and global travellers, offering simplified entry procedures and flexible travel options.
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