Events

MINSK, 7 April (BelTA) – Amendments and additions have been made to the Belarusian visa rules through Council of Ministers’ resolution of Ministers’ resolution No. 253 of 6 April 2017, BelTA reports with reference to the website of the Belarusian government.

The amendments and additions are designed to improve the legal framework of the operation of diplomatic missions. They allow for unambiguous interpretation of the existing preference for issuing short-term visas without additional supporting documentation to citizens of countries favorable in terms of migration.

The resolution simplifies the procedure for issuing entrance visas to nationals of countries favorable in terms of migration at Minsk National Airport (the powers of the Chief Consular Directorate of the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs have been expanded). Specifically, the head of the Chief Consular Directorate, the head of the Foreign Admissions Division of the Consular Directorate and their deputies can make decisions to apply preferences when considering visa applications from citizens of countries favorable in terms of migration.

This means that the applicants may be allowed to provide copies of some application documents requested in the visa rules by fax or other means of communication. The requirement to provide supporting documentation may be waived for those applying for a short-term visa for a visit of up to 30 days for the purpose of business, sports or cultural events, or private affairs. Short-term tourist visas may be granted based on a confirmed accommodation booking submitted by fax or other means of communication for the period indicated in the booking document, but for no more than ten days.

The resolution also establishes procedure for the issuance of a two-time exit/entry visa. Such visas were not issued before.

The resolution comes into force after its official publication.