Registration in Belarus

All foreign travelers planning to stay in Belarus more than 5 working days must register at the foreign affairs service at the place of stay. Saturdays are counted within the registration obligation, Sundays and Belarusian holidays are not. A deadline of 5 days after crossing the border has been set for registration. Strictly speaking, registration is necessary at every place of stay where a foreign visitor stays for more than five working days.

If you are staying in Belarus in a hotel, ask there about the registration procedure. Usually, the accommodation handles your registration immediately upon check-in. If you live in private accommodation, you are responsible for timely and proper registration. It is recommended that your host, with whom you live, accompanies you. The local office for foreign affairs (OVIR), the citizenship and migration affairs office, accepts your registration application. Travelers should plan a few hours for registration. In most cases, the process can be completed within one day.

To register in Belarus, the following documents are usually required:

• Foreign passport with a valid visa
• Original proof of medical insurance
• Migration card
• if necessary: two photographs
• Receipt for the payment of registration fees
• Statement from the inviting organization (not required for a private visit)

In the Belarusian foreign affairs agency (OVIR), you usually need to fill out two forms. You receive the migration card upon entry. If you lose the card while staying in Belarus, please immediately contact the nearest immigration office. You must surrender the migration card when leaving. This automatically de-registers you.

Please note that the rules for entering Belarus may change at short notice. Official information about registration in Belarus can be obtained from the Belarusian embassy or consulate-general.