Belarus: COVID-19-related restrictions remain in effect with minor adjustments as of Jan. 4 /update 16

Event

COVID-19-related restrictions in Belarus remain generally unchanged as of Jan. 4 by comparison with those in effect during late November. The only substantive change in the government's directives is that citizens arriving from abroad are no longer required to self-isolate.

Domestic Measures
Domestic businesses and services are operating subject to light-touch hygiene measures, including social distancing. Facemasks are required on all public transport, including flights and Metro services.

International Entry Restrictions
Most non-resident foreign nationals are indefinitely barred from entering the country via land borders; exceptions include freight transporters, international public transportation workers, diplomats, persons seeking urgent medical attention, and healthcare workers. International airports in the country remain open but are operating on reduced flight schedules. Nonresident foreign nationals may enter the country by air; travelers over six years of age must produce a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. In addition, travelers from countries with elevated disease activity must self-isolate for seven days upon arrival. Fully vaccinated travelers, or those transiting the country in fewer than 24 hours are not subject to self-isolation or the requirement to produce the results of a recent COVID-19 test.

Belarusian nationals and permanent residents are indefinitely barred from exiting the country via land borders, except for foreign nationals, freight transporters, international transport crews, individuals traveling due to a family or medical emergency, work-visa holders, and student-visa holders. Belarusian nationals and permanent residents may enter the country without restriction. Self-isolation is no longer required of all categories of citizens arriving from abroad.

Authorities in Belarus could broaden, amend, or lift these restrictions with little-to-no notice.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Resources

Ministry of Health: List of Countries with Elevated COVID-19 Activity

State Border Committee

COVID-19 Information Line: +375 (29) 156-85-65