travel advisory for belarus

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Belarus travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:20 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, belarus - avoid all travel.

The ability of the Embassy of Canada to Poland to provide consular services in Belarus is extremely limited. If you are in Belarus you should leave by commercial means.

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Armed conflict in Ukraine

In February 2022, Russia launched a military invasion of Ukraine. Russian forces are conducting military operations from Belarus.

Several countries, including Canada, have imposed sanctions on Belarus for its role in the conflict.

Certain international companies suspended their operations in the country.

Projectiles from the armed conflict in Ukraine have landed in the Brest region near the Ukrainian border. Be aware of your surroundings.

This situation is disrupting certain essential services such as:

• banking services
• transportation
• courier services

Flight options to leave Belarus are very limited. The situation in Belarus could deteriorate further.

The ability of the Embassy of Canada to Poland to provide consular services in Belarus is extremely limited. If you are in Belarus, you should leave by commercial means. You should not depend on the Government of Canada to help you leave the country.

If you decide to remain in Belarus despite this advisory:

• monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving situation
• ensure that your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
• review your personal security plans on a daily basis
• make sure you have an adequate supply of cash, essential items and medications
• be prepared to shelter in place
• expect transportation routes and essential services disruptions
• communicate your travel plans to family and friends
• register and update your contact information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Belarus to do so

Political situation

Large demonstrations against the government were held in the months following the presidential elections of August 2020. Local authorities responded with a violent crackdown on protesters, and tens of thousands of individuals were detained.

While the demonstrations are now less frequent, authorities are still actively targeting political opposition, journalists, and individuals perceived to be critical of the government, even for activities that took place outside of Belarus. Local authorities may enforce local laws in an arbitrary manner.

Journalists are particularly scrutinized. There are reports of intimidation, harassment and violence against local and foreign journalists, and some have been detained or have had their equipment confiscated.

On May 23, 2021, the Belarusian government forced the diversion of a commercial flight under false pretences to arrest a journalist. Since then, several countries, including Canada, advise their airlines to avoid Belarusian airspace due to serious safety and security concerns. As such, air transportation options to leave Belarus may be restricted.

The political situation remains fluid and unpredictable. Authorities could enforce security restrictions without notice.

If you are in Belarus:

• be vigilant at all times
• avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• expect a heightened security presence and security checks
• avoid expressions of dissent or making statements critical of or sensitive to the government
• monitor local media for the latest information

Surveillance

Security authorities may place foreigners under surveillance. Hotel rooms, telephones, fax machines and e-mail messages may be monitored. Personal possessions in hotel rooms may be searched. Foreigners have been expelled from the country for working with Belarusian civil-society groups.

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occur, particularly in the cities of:

Such crimes are especially common after dark in and around hotels and hostels frequented by foreigners.

Be vigilant when crossing the border with Poland at Brest due to the risk of mugging.

Theft of luxury cars is common. Park any vehicle in a secure location or guarded lot, and always keep valuables out of sight.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash. Always be aware of your surroundings.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. There is a potential for other violent incidents.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are frequent. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Debit- and credit-card fraud is common. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities are limited and only available in the larger cities.

Road safety

Roads are generally in good condition; however, many may be impassable in winter.

Drivers generally have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe-driving practices.

Horse-drawn carts are a common road hazard in rural areas.

Radar traps are widespread.

Public transportation

Use only officially marked taxis and do not share them with strangers. Fares vary greatly, and vehicles are often poorly maintained.

Buses and trolleys are poorly maintained and are usually crowded and unheated.

Exercise caution when travelling by train, especially on sleeper trains to Warsaw and Moscow. Store valuables in a safe place and do not leave your compartment unattended. Ensure that the door is secured from the inside.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

border_closures

Border closures

Starting in February 2023, local authorities in Poland and Lithuania have shut down certain border crossings with Belarus due to security concerns. The Polish, Lithuanian, Latvian, and Estonian governments have stated that further border crossing closures are possible.

If you plan to cross from Belarus into Poland or Lithuania, only the following border crossings remain open to cars and buses:

• Brest/Terespol
• Medininkai/Kamienny
• Šalčininkai /Beniakoni

Travelling by land from Belarus into these countries is increasingly difficult. More closures or changes to restrictions could happen with little or no warning.

If you are near the border or travelling through a border crossing:

• be aware of your surroundings
• avoid large crowds and gatherings
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Belarusian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Belarus.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Since October 2020, it has been reported that an increasing number of foreigners are being denied entry to the Republic of Belarus. You may be denied entry to Belarus if your travel is considered non-essential, even if you meet the regular entry requirements.

Before you travel:

• confirm the entry and exit requirements with the regional migration office
• confirm the status of the border checkpoints
• monitor the media for the latest information
• Information portal - State Border Committee of the Republic of Belarus
• Types of visas - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 30 days Private visa: not required for stays of up to 30 days Business visa: not required for stays of up to 30 days Student visa: required Transit visa: not required

You can enter Belarus without a visa for a period of up to 30 days, which cannot be extended, at the following conditions:

• You must arrive at Minsk National Airport
• You must  have a regular passport valid for at least 90 days beyond the date you expect to leave Belarus
• You must  show a proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Belarus (Br 49,000 (approx. CAD$30) for each day of stay)
• You must  have a medical insurance coverage of at least €10,000

Those conditions don’t apply if you are flying in from or to Russia as these flights are considered internal flights with no border control.

• Obtaining a visa for Belarus - Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Information on visa-free travel - Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Land border with Poland

If you intend to travel to Poland by land from Belarus, you must apply for a humanitarian reasons permit at the border crossing.

Polish Border Guards (in Polish)

• Entry to Poland through external borders
• List of border crossings
• Contact info

Entering Belarus by car

When entering Belarus by private vehicle, you must fill out a customs card and show proof of ownership documents or a power of attorney letter at the border crossing.

These documents must be translated into Belarusian and certified at a Belarusian embassy. Third-party car insurance is mandatory and can only be purchased upon entry into Belarus.

Registration

If staying in Belarus for more than 10 business days, you must register with the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Ministry of Interior (formerly OVIR) office in the district in which you are staying. Registration must be done no later than 3 working days after arriving in Belarus.

Registration will normally be arranged by your hotel. If you are not staying in a hotel, registration must be organized by your host.

Failure to register can result in fines and difficulties when departing.

Health insurance

You must present proof of valid medical insurance translated into Belarussian or Russian to enter Belarus. In addition, you will be required to purchase mandatory state insurance at the port of entry.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Access to medical care is limited and medical standards are not up to those you might expect in Canada. There are private medical and dental offices in the larger cities.

In the event of a serious accident or illness, medical evacuation will be necessary.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Belarus.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Belarus, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Belarus.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Belarus, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Belarusian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Belarus to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Identification

Always carry originals of your passport, visa and migration card, as you may be asked to prove your identity and date of entry into the country. Failure to provide internationally recognized identification could result in detention.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

Photography of military installations, public buildings and monuments may result in a penalty. Seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Belarusian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Homosexuality, however, is not widely accepted in Belarus.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You must carry an international driving permit.

Checkpoints are common on roads and border crossings in Belarus.

Traffic safety in Belarus is controlled by uniformed police officers known as DAI in Belarusian and GAI in Russian. If a traffic police officer waves a striped wand or points a red retro-reflector at you, you must pull over and stop, and be ready to present driving and insurance documents.

Drivers of foreign vehicles must pay a fee to use Belarusian highways.

There is a digital road toll system , BelToll, to collect tolls along motorways.

You must drive with the vehicle lights on at all times from November 1 to March 31.

The use of hand-held devices while driving is prohibited.

Drivers may not have any alcohol in their blood system: the alcohol limit for drivers is 0.00%.

The speed limit in urban areas is 60 km/h, unless specified otherwise. Outside urban areas the speed limit is 90 km/h and on highways, 110 km/h. Speed limits are strictly enforced.

Most traffic signs are in Cyrillic script only (not Latin).

The Belarusian government may enforce a requirement for special permits to travel in “protected border zones.” Be alert for warning signs, road barriers or border-guard posts. Do not cross into such areas without permission. For more information, contact the embassy of Belarus.

• Digital toll collection - BelToll
• International Driving Permit
• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

The currency is the Belarusian ruble (BYR).

Credit cards are accepted by many hotels, restaurants and stores, especially in Minsk. ATMs are available in major cities to withdraw rubles. Traveller’s cheques are not accepted for payment but can be exchanged at a bank for rubles.

You must pay for goods and services in Belarusian rubles. The use of foreign currency in cash transactions is prohibited. You can face arrest if you attempt to buy an item with currency other than Belarusian rubles. Exchange foreign currency at government-licensed booths only. A valid passport must be presented to purchase foreign currency.

Belarus is not prone to natural disasters.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 102
• medical assistance: 103
• firefighters: 101

Consular assistance

There is no Canadian government office in Belarus. You can obtain consular assistance from the Embassy of Canada to Poland in Warsaw.

For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada in Warsaw and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Belarus Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Belarus.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Belarus.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Belarus. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Belarus.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Belarus. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Belarus, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Belarus. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Tick-borne Encephalitis

For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas

TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.

TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found. 

Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet.

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Counsel your patients on actions they can take on their trip to stay healthy and safe.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Belarus. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Belarus include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Belarus’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Belarus may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Belarus, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Remind your patients to pack health and safety items. Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Belarus for a list of health-related items they should consider packing.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Latest update

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Belarus due to the volatile security environment caused by the Russian military presence along Belarus' border with Ukraine, military conflict and the arbitrary enforcement of laws.

Belarus (PDF 295.22 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Do not travel   to Belarus.

Do not travel   to Belarus due to the volatile security environment caused by the Russian military presence along Belarus' border with Ukraine, military conflict and the arbitrary enforcement of laws.

Do not travel to areas near borders with Latvia, Lithuania and Poland.

Do not travel to areas near borders with Latvia, Lithuania and Poland due to ongoing civil unrest and potential for armed violence.

• Do not travel to Belarus due to the volatile security environment caused by the Russian military presence along Belarus' border with Ukraine and military conflict. Russian forces are conducting military operations from Belarus, and this has heightened tensions in the region. The security environment is volatile and could deteriorate at short notice. Do not attempt to travel to the Belarus-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Belarus.
• If you're in Belarus, leave immediately using limited commercial options available or private means. Carefully consider the safest means and route to depart. Check the entry requirements of the  destination  you're entering. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family.
• If, despite our advice, you remain in Belarus, review your personal security plans. Expect restrictions on financial transactions and be aware you may be affected by shortages of essential products and services. For more information on what to do if you're caught in armed conflict, see our general advice ‘' There's an armed conflict ’'.
• Large protests occur in Minsk and other cities in Belarus. Avoid demonstrations and follow the instructions of authorities. Harassment of foreigners is possible. You may not be able to trust the police and other local officials. People have reported harassment, mistreatment and extortion by officials. Do not travel near borders with Latvia, Lithuania and Poland due to ongoing civil unrest and the potential for armed violence.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• There's a radiation exclusion zone around Chernobyl. Authorities may restrict travel in this region. Food may have high levels of radiation. Avoid eating local food.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other diseases are common. Boil tap water or drink bottled water. Avoid ice cubes, unpasteurised dairy products, and raw and undercooked food.
• Healthcare standards in Belarus are below those of Australia. If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation. Make sure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice:  Health

• In March, Belarus introduced laws incurring jail sentences for 'terrorism propaganda' and 'discrediting' the Belarusian armed forces and military organisations. Penalties may be severe, including the death penalty for high treason.
• Crimes, including murder, can also attract the death penalty. Penalties for drug offences are severe, with long prison sentences.
• Law enforcement agencies in Belarus cooperate closely with agencies in Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution.
• Authorities can ask for ID at any time. Always carry your passport, original visa and migration card. They will not accept copies.
• It's illegal to take photos of certain sites, buildings, monuments and officials. Other rules or fees can apply to photography in public areas.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Entry requirements can change at short notice. Contact your airline or the nearest embassy or consulate of Belarus to confirm entry requirements. If, despite our advice, you travel to Belarus, you can get a 30-day visa-free entry into Belarus. 
• If you're in Belarus, you should leave immediately by limited commercial or private means if you judge it's safe to do so. Confirm the entry requirements for your  destination  before arrival. Do not travel near the borders of  Latvia ,  Lithuania ,  Poland  and  Ukraine . 
• Flights to and from Belarus are extremely limited. Flight availability and travel routes could change or be disrupted at short notice. Several countries have banned the overflight of their airspace by Belarusian airlines, including all EU member states, the UK and Ukraine. 
• Expect disruptions to travel and changes at short notice. Some roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or damaged. Make sure you have a supply of food, water, medication and fuel. Make sure your travel documents are up-to-date, including those of your family. 

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy in Belarus.  Our ability to provide consular assistance in Belarus is severely limited.  Consular services may be limited due to the security environment.  The Australian government will not be able to evacuate you from Belarus.
• If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Security situation.

If you're in Belarus, leave immediately using limited commercial options available or private means. The security environment is volatile and could deteriorate quickly due to the Russian military presence along Belarus' border with Ukraine and the military conflict. Russian forces are conducting military operations from Belarus, which has heightened regional tensions. Do not attempt to travel to the Belarus-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Belarus. 

If you decide to stay in Belarus, review your personal security plans. Avoid public demonstrations. Expect restrictions on financial transactions and be aware you may be affected by shortages of essential products and services. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. 

More information:

• Threat of conflict

Border areas

Do not travel to the Belarus-Ukraine border due to the risk of armed conflict. We advise you do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and military conflict. Read the  Ukraine travel advice  for more information.

Due to restrictions on movement and the potential for civil unrest, do not travel near borders with  Latvia ,  Lithuania  and  Poland . Armed violence is possible at any time.

Leaving Belarus

Where it's safe to do so, you should leave Belarus. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. Any travel options you take are at your own risk.

Transport routes may be disrupted. Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Ensure you have adequate food, water, medication and fuel supply.

Read your destination's travel advice to ensure you meet the entry requirements. Minsk International Airport operates with international flights to limited destinations. Minsk airport and Belarusian land border operations could close without notice. Check before planning any border crossings. Be prepared for travel delays and disruptions. Several countries have banned Belarusian airlines from flying over their airspace, including all EU member states, the UK and Ukraine.

If, despite our advice, you decide to stay in Belarus:

• follow the instructions of authorities
• ensure your travel documents are up-to-date, and keep your passport and other travel documentation safe
• contact your family and friends in Australia so they're aware of your location and situation
• keep up to date with developments on the security situation and monitor reputable media, and regularly check our travel advice and  social media
• review your personal security plans and make contingency plans to leave as soon as you judge it safe to do so
• always be alert and aware of your surroundings
• avoid large gatherings and areas with groups of fighters and military equipment.

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests

Large and local street demonstrations occur in Minsk and other cities in Belarus.

There have been casualties and protesters detained. Further demonstrations could occur without notice and turn violent. Harassment of foreigners is possible.

Avoid protests and follow the instructions of authorities.

Local authorities won't tolerate opposition. They often make many arrests. 

Belarus has introduced the death penalty for 'attempted terrorism'.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid areas of unrest
• obey the local authorities
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Crimes against travellers include pick-pocketing,  muggings and robberies . Take care on sleeper trains and in or near bars and hotels visited by foreigners.

Watch out for drink or food spiking. You're at higher risk of theft if you've been drugged.

People have reported harassment, mistreatment and extortion by police and other local officials.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Belarus, they can still happen.

Terrorists have staged attacks in other European cities in recent years. Targets include:

• public transport, including train stations
• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• public areas that attract large groups of people, such as tourist attractions, sporting venues and shopping centres

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

People are injured or killed in snow-related accidents every winter from December to February.

Accidents include exposure to extreme cold, falls, traffic accidents, avalanches and snow falling from roofs.

Use common sense and take care in  severe weather .

If there's a  natural disaster , follow the advice of local authorities.

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Most Australian travel insurance policies won't cover you for travel to Belarus. Do not travel to Belarus. See ' Safety '

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Physical and mental health

Do not travel to Belarus. If, despite our advice, you travel to Belarus, consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Belarus. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage  
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Tick-borne diseases.

Tick-borne encephalitis  (World Health Organisation) and other tick-borne diseases are a risk, especially if you travel through forests.

Ticks are common in rural areas from spring to autumn - April to October.

Belarus has opened the exclusion zone immediately around the Chornobyl site, which includes the area close to the border with Ukraine in the southeast of Belarus.

Access to this part of the country may be limited and remains radioactive.

Tourists can visit the area with organised tour groups.

Tour groups are subject to regular security, passport and radiation checks.

If you visit Chornobyl:

• go with a reputable tour operator
• follow all safety instructions
• State Agency Of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management
• State Environmental Research Institution Polesye State Radiation-Ecological Reserve

Other health risks

Foodborne, waterborne and other diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• tuberculosis

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products

Get medical advice if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of health care in Belarus is lower than in Australia. Doctors and hospitals will ask for insurance details or an up-front payment before treating you.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to get proper care. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long prison sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Always carry your passport, original visa and migration card.

Authorities can ask for ID at any time. They can detain you if you don't have identification. Copies of ID aren't accepted.

Belarus has the death penalty for crimes including murder and 'attempted terrorism'.

In March, Belarus introduced laws incurring jail sentences for 'terrorism propaganda', 'discrediting' the Belarusian armed forces and military organisations, and the death penalty for high treason.

In Belarus, it's illegal to:

• drive with a blood alcohol level above zero
• conduct some religious activities, such as preaching, handing out literature and meeting with unregistered religious groups
• take photos of military sites, government buildings, monuments and uniformed officials

Other rules or fees can apply for taking photographs in public areas.

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal but aren't widely accepted.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

Belarus doesn't recognise dual nationality.

Any child born to a Belarusian parent is a Belarusian citizen. This is regardless of their place of birth.

By law, dual nationals must enter and exit the country using their Belarusian passport. This limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

If you enter Belarus with a Belarusian passport, local authorities will treat you as a Belarusian national.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa-free entry for short stays

If, despite our advice, you travel to Belarus, you can get a 30-day visa-free entry. This is only valid if you enter and exit through Minsk National Airport and Brest, Vitebsk, Gomel and Mogilev airports. More information can be found on the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

Visa-free entry does not apply to travellers coming from or travelling to Russia.

Other entry conditions apply, such as compulsory medical insurance.

Travel via Russia

If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Belarus via Russia, you'll need to get a Russian transit visa. Contact the nearest  embassy of Russia  for details.

Diplomatic or official passport

Different rules apply if you're travelling on a diplomatic or official passport. Contact the  State Border Committee of The Republic of Belarus  for details.

Border measures

Authorities don't allow foreigners to cross the land border between Belarus and Russia. Instead, you'll need to travel between Belarus and Russia by air. For details, contact either:

• the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus
• the  Embassy of Russia

Authorities permit Australians to cross land borders for short visits to the areas of Augustov Canal, Belovezhskaya Pushcha and Brest (bordering Poland), and Grodno (bordering Poland and Lithuania).

Travel with a registered tour operator and enter through assigned border checkpoints. Check details about:

• Grodno and the Augustov Canal visitors
• Brest foreign visitors

When you enter or exit Belarus, show the original visa issued to border authorities. They won't accept copies.

You may be asked to present a document with a notarized translation confirming the purpose of your visit to Belarus at the border.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. For details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules, contact:

• Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Republic of Belarus
• State Customs Authorities of Belarus

Other formalities

Migration card

We advise you do not travel to Russia or Belarus. If, despite our advice, you travel to Belarus or Russia, you'll need to complete a migration card when you enter. One card covers both countries.

If you don't get a card on your flight or train, ask the border control authorities for one.

Keep the stamped second half of the card. You'll need it when leaving the last country.

Medical insurance

You must have medical insurance to enter Belarus.

If you arrive without proof of insurance, you'll need to purchase a standard policy on entry.

Contact the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus  for details.

Currency and goods declaration

If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Belarus and arrive with more than $US10,000 worth of currency and goods, you'll need to complete a declaration form.

Ensure your completed form is stamped by a customs officer when you arrive.

Carry it during your visit and show it when you leave the country.

Undeclared money may be confiscated when you leave Belarus. You could also be fined.

Local registration

If, despite our advice, you plan to travel to Belarus and stay for more than 10 days, you must register with the local office of the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Ministry of Interior.

Registering is usually part of the check-in procedure if you stay in a hotel. Confirm this with your hotel.

If you don't register, you could be fined. You could face difficulties when leaving the country.

Exporting goods

Strict rules control the export of antiques, icons and items of historic significance.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

If your passport is stolen, you'll also need the following:

• an official police report
• a new Australian passport from the  Australian Embassy in Moscow
• a new exit visa from Belarusian authorities

You won't be able to leave Belarus without an original visa unless you're granted authorisation. This comes from the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Belarusian Ministry of Interior.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Belarus Ruble (BYN).

In July 2016, new BYN notes were introduced. The face value of old banknotes in circulating currency changed at a ratio of 1:10,000.

Crime and ATM fraud is a risk. Only use ATMs inside bank premises during business hours.

If you're a victim of an ATM  scam , report it to the local police.

Local travel

Do not travel to the Belarus-Ukraine border due to military conflict. Do not travel to areas near borders with Latvia, Lithuania and Poland due to restrictions on movement and potential civil unrest. Armed violence is possible at any time. More information on crossing borders can be found on the  State Border Committee website (in Russian) .

Carry your passport, original visa and migration card with you at all times. Local authorities won't accept copies.

Some border areas in Belarus have limited entry border zones. You need a  special permit  issued in advance by the State Border Committee to enter.

Limited entry zones are generally sign-posted and restricted by road barriers and border guard posts.

Don't enter limited entry zones without a valid permit.

Driving permit

To drive in Belarus, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

You must get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

Due to ice and snow, some roads outside large cities may be impassable in winter.

Drivers must have either:

• an original ownership certificate for their vehicle
• a rental contract, or
• a power of attorney from the owner of the vehicle

If you drive a foreign vehicle in Belarus, you must pay a fee to use toll roads. You can be fined if you don't. Check payment, toll roads and maps on  BelToll .

You must also have a 'green card' (proof of vehicle insurance) valid for Belarus. If not, you must buy compulsory car insurance at the border.

• Driving or riding

On 11 April 2022, the EU announced that 21 Russian-owned airlines were banned from flying in EU airspace due to safety concerns.

Flights in and out of Belarus are extremely limited. Several countries (including all EU member states, the UK and Ukraine) have banned the overflight of their airspace by Belarusian airlines. Travel to and from Belarus is only possible through an indirect air route via a country that has not imposed a ban.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths. If you're flying domestically or internationally, research your aviation provider.

Check  Belarus' air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

For non-urgent criminal issues, contact the local police at the nearest police station. 

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy in Belarus. Contact the Australian Embassy in Russia for consular help. Our ability to provide consular assistance is severely limited. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Belarus.

Australian Embassy, Moscow

13 Kropotkinsky  Pereulok Moscow  119034 Russia Phone: (+7 495) 956-6070 Fax: (+7 495) 956-6170 Website:  russia.embassy.gov.au Twitter:  @PosolAustralia

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

Australians in need of consular assistance should contact the Australian Government's 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Getting help

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Belarus

Ambulance: 103

Police: 102

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Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Belarus
• dealing with a death in Belarus
• being arrested in Belarus
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you are affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack.

Contacting FCDO

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Help abroad in an emergency

If you are abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy Minsk .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

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The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks

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Places the U.S. Government Warns Not to Travel Right Now

You may want to reconsider traveling to these countries right now.

Do Not Travel to These Countries

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Crime, civil unrest and terrorism are common risk factors for countries that end up on the State Department's "Do Not Travel" advisory list.

In 2024, tourism across the globe is “well on track” to return to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections by UN Tourism.

Global conflicts and natural disasters , ranging from a series of coups across Africa to catastrophic earthquakes in the Middle East affected international travel patterns throughout 2023. Still, international tourist arrivals reached 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to estimates by UN Tourism .

In January 2024 alone, about 4.6 million U.S. citizens left the country for international destinations, 17% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the International Trade Administration . But some destinations warrant more caution than others.

On Oct. 19, 2023, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Gaza and flaring tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution advisory due to “increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.” Prior to this update, the most recent worldwide caution advisory was issued in 2022 after a U.S. strike killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor as leader of Al Qaeda, causing “a higher potential for anti-American violence.” The worldwide caution advisory remains in effect.

The U.S. State Department also issues individual travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries globally, continually updating them based on a variety of risk indicators such as health, terrorism and civil unrest. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1, which means exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, which means do not travel there.

About 10% of countries – 19 total – have a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory as of Mar. 4. In Level 4 countries, the U.S. government may have “very limited ability” to step in should travelers’ safety or security be at risk, according to the State Department. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

So far in 2024, the State Department made changes to the existing Level 4 advisories for Myanmar, Iran and Gaza, and moved Niger and Lebanon off of the Level 4 list.

Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory

These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order:

Jump to Place: Afghanistan Belarus Burkina Faso Central African Republic Myanmar (formerly Burma) Gaza Haiti Iran Iraq Libya Mali Mexico North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Russia Somalia South Sudan Sudan Syria Ukraine Venezuela Yemen

Afghanistan: The Central Asian country is wrestling with “terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and crime,” according to the State Department. U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for wrongful detention and kidnapping. In 2022, the government reinstituted public floggings and executions, and women’s rights are disappearing under Taliban control. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul halted operations in August 2021. Since the Taliban took control , many forms of international aid have been halted . Meanwhile, in 2023, some of the year’s deadliest earthquakes killed more than 2,400 in Afghanistan while the country continues to face a years-long extreme drought.

Belarus: Belarus, which shares a western border with Russia and a southern border with Ukraine, has been flagged for “Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.” The U.S. Embassy in Minsk halted operations in February 2022.

Burkina Faso: Terrorism, crime and kidnapping are plaguing this West African nation. Terrorist attacks may target hotels, restaurants and schools with little to no warning, and the East and Sahel regions of the country are under a state of emergency. In late November 2023, hundreds died in clashes between state security forces and rebels near the country’s border with Mali. In June, more than 2 million people in Burkina Faso were displaced due to “violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.”

Central African Republic: While there have not been specific incidents of U.S. citizens targeted with violence or crime, violent crime and sudden closure of roads and borders is common. The advisory states that “Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping” is a factor in its assessment. Recent data from UNICEF suggests the country has the worst drinking water accessibility of all countries in 2022.

Myanmar (Formerly Burma): Armed conflict and civil unrest are the primary reasons to not travel to this Southeast Asian country, which experienced a military coup in early 2021. Limited health care resources, wrongful detentions and “areas with land mines and unexploded ordnance” are also listed as risk factors. After Ukraine and Israel, Myanmar had the highest conflict-related death toll in 2023.

Gaza : Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization as designated by the State Department, controls much of the Gaza Strip, which shares borders with both Israel and Egypt. On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas fighters broke across the border into Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a brazen attack that stunned Israelis. On Oct. 10, Israel hit the Gaza Strip with “the fiercest air strikes in its 75-year conflict” according to Reuters . The conflict has since escalated into war between Israel and Hamas, with regular Israeli airstrikes leading to extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. As of mid-December, nearly 85% of Gaza’s population were displaced from their homes, according to UN estimates . The region continues to face shortages of food , water, electricity and medical supplies , with conditions deemed “far beyond a humanitarian crisis.” The State Department warns of terrorism and armed conflict within Gaza’s borders.

Haiti: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince in response to the increased risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the country , as well as armed conflict between gangs and police. The travel advisory states that cases of kidnapping “often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings.” The travel advisory also states that “U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible” given “the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” A series of gang attacks in late September 2023 caused thousands to flee their homes, and many aid groups have been forced to cut or suspend operations amid escalating violence in recent months.

Iran: Terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest are risk factors for all travelers to Iran, while U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for “arbitrary arrest.” U.S.-Iranian nationals such as students, journalists and business travelers have been arrested on charges of espionage and threatening national security. Executions in Iran rose sharply between 2021 and 2022, bringing the country’s total to nearly 580 people over the year, according to a report by Amnesty International released in May 2023.

Iraq: The State Department cites “terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict [and] civil unrest” as cause for the country’s Level 4 distinction. Iraq’s northern borders, and its border with Syria, are especially dangerous. Since the escalation of conflict in neighboring Israel in October, there has been an increase in attacks against Iraqi military bases, which host U.S. troops and other international forces. In October 2023, non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members were ordered to leave the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

Libya: Following the end of its dictatorship over a decade ago, Libya has been wrought with internal conflict between armed groups in the East and West. Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping and terrorism are all risk factors. U.S. citizens have been targets of kidnapping for ransom, with terrorists targeting hotels and airports frequented by Westerners. The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli halted operations in 2014. In mid-September 2023, floods, which some say were intensified by climate change , killed thousands in eastern Libya. Clashes between armed factions escalated across the country in the latter half of 2023, including in the capital city of Tripoli and in Benghazi.

Mali: After experiencing military coups in 2020 and 2021, crime, terrorism and kidnapping are all prevalent threats in this West African landlocked nation. In July 2022, non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families were ordered to leave the country due to higher risk of terrorist activity. A U.N. report in August 2023 said that military groups in the country, including both Mali security forces and possibly Russian Wagner mercenaries, were spreading terror through the use of violence against women and human rights abuses. Democratic elections were supposed to occur in February 2024, but Mali’s military junta postponed the plans indefinitely. In December, the U.N. officially ended a decade-long peacekeeping presence in the country, which had been among the agency’s deadliest missions, with hundreds of the mission personnel killed since 2013.

Mexico: Each state in Mexico is assessed separately for travel advisory levels. Six of the 32 states in Mexico are designated as Level 4: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Crime and kidnapping are listed as the primary risk factors throughout the country. Nearly 112,000 people were missing across the country as of October, a number the U.N. has called “alarming.”

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): U.S. passports are not valid for travel “to, in, or through” this country, home to one of the world's longest-running dynastic dictatorships. The travel advisory states that the Level 4 distinction is due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.” In July 2023, a U.S. soldier fled across the border into North Korea, where he is believed to be in North Korean custody, the first American detained in the North in nearly five years. He was returned to U.S. custody in September 2023.

Russia: The travel advisory for Russia cites its invasion of Ukraine , harassment of U.S. citizens by Russian government officials and arbitrary law enforcement as a few of the reasons for the Level 4 designation. Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are specifically listed as Level 4 regions. Terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping and wrongful detention are all noted as risks.

Russia Invades Ukraine: A Timeline

Somalia: A severe drought resulting from five failed rainy seasons in a row killed 43,000 people in 2022, and caused a famine amid conflict with Islamist insurgents . Violent crime is common throughout Somalia , pirates frequent its coast off the Horn of Africa, and medical facilities, where they exist, have limited capacity. Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health and kidnapping are all risk factors. In January 2024, some passengers aboard a U.N.-contracted helicopter were taken hostage by al-Shabaab militants after the vehicle crashed in central Somalia.

South Sudan: Crime, kidnapping and armed conflict are the primary risk factors for South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011, making it the world’s newest country . Weapons are readily available, and travelers have been victims of sexual assault and armed robbery.

Sudan: The U.S. evacuated its embassy in Khartoum in April 2023, and the country closed its airspace due to the ongoing conflict in the country, only permitting humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts. Fighting has escalated in the region between two warring generals seeking to gain control after a military coup in 2021 ousted the country’s prime minister. Civil unrest is the primary risk factor for Africa’s third largest country by area. Crime, terrorism, kidnapping and armed conflict are also noted. The International Criminal Court began investigating alleged war crimes and violence against African ethnic groups in the country in 2023. Millions have fled their homes due to conflict, and the U.N. has said its efforts to provide aid have been hindered by a lack of support, safety and resources. As recently as December 2023, the United Nations warned of catastrophic famine , with millions of children at-risk for malnutrition .

Syria: The advisory states that “No part of Syria is safe from violence,” with terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict and risk of unjust detention all potential risk factors. U.S. citizens are often a target for kidnappings and detention. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus halted operations in 2012. Fighting in neighboring Israel has escalated since October, and the conflict has spilled over into Syria, where the U.S. has carried out air strikes following drone and rocket attacks against American troops in Syria and Iraq, triggered by the Israel-Hamas war.

Ukraine: Russian setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine buoyed hopes in Ukraine in 2023. However, Ukraine is a Level 4 country due to Russia’s invasion, with crime and civil unrest also noted as risk factors. The country’s forces shot down two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve 2023, in a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said “sets the right mood for the entire year ahead.”

Venezuela: Human rights abuses and lack of health care plague this South American nation, which has been in a political crisis since 2014. In 2019, diplomatic personnel were withdrawn from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. Threats in the country include crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention and poor health infrastructure.

Yemen: Six of the nine risk factors defined by the State Department – terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines – are all present in Yemen. Despite private companies offering tourist visits to the Yemeni island of Socotra, the U.S. government argues those arranging such visits “are putting tourists in danger.” Civil war and cholera are also both present throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa halted operations in 2015. The country has experienced a relative lull in the civil war fighting, but as peace negotiations have gotten traction, flare ups in the fighting have jeopardized progress. Most recently, the U.S. and U.K. have carried out a series of airstrikes in the country, targeting Iran-backed Houthi sites.

Other Countries to Watch

Since Jan. 1, the State Department has updated travel advisories for 17 different countries as well as for the West Bank and Gaza, adding information about specific regions or risk factors, or simply renewing an existing advisory. Travel advisory levels can change based on several factors in a nation, such as increased civil unrest, policies that affect human rights or higher risks of unlawful detention.

The State Department has given about 25 countries an assessment of Level 3, meaning it recommends people “reconsider travel” to those destinations.

On Oct. 14, one week after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, Israel and the West Bank were both moved from Level 2 to Level 3, while Gaza remains at Level 4. The region’s travel advisory was updated in November to reflect travel restrictions for certain government employees who have not already left the area, and it was updated again on Jan. 3.

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in early October, the U.S. State Department raised Lebanon ’s travel advisory level from a Level 3 to a Level 4 level due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges” between Israel and Hezbollah or other militant groups. In December, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut returned to normal staffing and presence, and on Jan. 29, the country was moved back to Level 3. Crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and unexploded landmines are listed as the country’s primary risk factors. However, the country’s borders with Syria and with Israel, as well as refugee settlements within Lebanon, are specifically noted as Level 4 regions.

China became a Level 3 country in late 2020, with an update in December 2022 citing “the surge in COVID-19 cases, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and COVID-19-related restrictions” as the reason for the advisory. In June 2023, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) was moved from the Level 3 to the Level 2 list, but travelers are still advised to be cautious in the area due to “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Meanwhile, Macau remains at Level 3.

Following an attempted coup in August 2023, Niger was elevated to Level 4 in August and the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. In early January 2024, the overall risk level for the country was lowered back to Level 3. Despite the new classification, the State Department still asks non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members to depart the country.

In mid-December 2023 there was an explosion at Guinea’s main fuel depot which has since affected access to health care and basic goods and services. The country was subsequently designated a Level 3 nation after having previously been Level 2. Concerns about civil unrest, health, crime and fuel shortages impacting local infrastructure were listed as the primary risk factors contributing to the change.

Several Level 3 countries are among the worst countries for human trafficking, as designated by the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report . Level 3 countries on this list include Papua New Guinea, Guinea Bissau, China and Chad. There are also nine Level 4 countries designated as among the worst for human trafficking: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Venezuela.

Over 70 countries are currently at Level 2, meaning the State Department recommends travelers “exercise increased caution” when traveling to those destinations.

Botswana became the newest Level 2 country on Feb. 26 after having previously been Level 1, with crime noted as the primary risk factor.

France, which saw nationwide protests throughout 2023, has civil unrest and terrorism noted as risk factors for its Level 2 status, and Sweden’s Level 2 status is associated with risks of terrorism.

The Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas was updated in January to reflect water safety concerns. The advisory warns that “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated” and notes that government personnel are “not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.” It also warns visitors to be mindful of sharks, weather and water conditions. The advisory also says that crime is a primary risk factor with gang-on-gang violence contributing to high homicide rates in some areas. Visitors are asked to “be vigilant” and to not physically resist robbery attempts.

Bangladesh 's Level 2 travel advisory was updated in October 2023 to add a note about the country’s general election , which took place Jan. 7, 2024. The advisory states “demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.” The U.S. has since claimed the country’s election was not free nor fair.

In November 2023, several Level 2 travel advisories were updated with new cautionary information. The advisory for Ghana was updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers specifically, noting “anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years.” Meanwhile, the advisory for South Africa was updated in February to note that routes recommended by GPS may be unsafe with higher risk for crime.

Turkmenistan was moved off of the Level 2 list to become the newest addition to the Level 1 list on Jan. 22, meaning normal precautions are recommended but there are no risk factors causing travelers to practice increased caution.

The State Department asks travelers to pay attention to travel advisory levels and alerts , review country information pages for their destinations and read related country security reports before going abroad.

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Travel Advice for Belarus

Going to Belarus and need to know about the latest government travel advice for Belarus? Find the updated travel advice and travel warnings for Belarus from governments around the world, here.

General Travel Advice and Warnings for Belarus

The decision to visit to Belarus is your decision and you are responsible for your individual safety and security whilst in Belarus.

The web content on this web page is provided for information only and gathered from travel advice and warnings for Belarus by governments around the globe to their citizens.

While we make every effort to provide you correct travel advice details, it is offered on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied.

This operators of this web site does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

Standard Cautions Travellers Need to Remember Whilst Travelling in Belarus

Crime – Petty criminal activities such as pick pocketing in a jampacked surrounding to sexual assault and robberies do happen in larger cities of Belarus. Make sure that all your personal possessions, including passports and other traveling documents, are secure at all times.

Terrorism – Always be aware of your surroundings when in public locations. Be particularly alert if attending sporting occasions and during religious holidays and other public occasions, as terrorists frequently make use of such events to mount attacks.

Demonstrations and Protests – Demonstrations may take place. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent any time. They can also result in disruptions to traffic and public transport. It is in your interest of safety to keep away from areas where demonstrations and huge events are occurring and comply with the directions of local authorities. Monitor local media in Belarus for details on on-going protests in Belarus.

Scams – Exercise caution in crowded tourist locations in Belarus, where scammers target travellers. If you’ve been scammed in Belarus, reach a safe place quickly; make note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; notify the police in Belarus and acquire a record and if your credit card is used by the scammer call your credit card provider to inform the scam; they will likely request a copy of the police report to cancel the financial transaction.

Spiked Food and Beverages – Never leave food or beverages unattended or in the care of strangers whilst taking a trip in Belarus or anywhere else. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from unknown acquaintances. These items may have drugs that might put you in danger of sexual assault and mugging.

What is the entry/exit conditions for Belarus?

Every nation or territory decides who can get in or leave through its borders, in the same manner Belarus decides who enter its borders. The Government of your home country can not intervene on your behalf if you do not fulfill your Belarus’s entry or exit requirements.

To get more information regarding the entry/exit requirement for Belarus browse through visa requirements for Belarus or get the most up to date info with the visa office at the Belarusian consulate in your home country.

Travel insurance for Belarus

Health cover is among the major reasons travellers get travel insurance. It will not avoid you getting ill or seriously injured, though it can stop you suffering financially. Medical assistance overseas can be very expensive.

You should shell out for all medical care you receive overseas. You can not expect to get free or subsidised treatment through your Belarus’s public health system, like you would in your home country.

If you can’t pay, local authorities could detain you. The government from your home country can’t pay you health care costs for you, loan you cash or get you out of jail.

You need travel insurance for travelling to Belarus . You also need to see to it you select a plan that is right for you.

Check out the small print of your travel insurance policy.

Declare all pre-existing conditions to your travel insurer upfront. If you do not, you might void your travel insurance policy.

Tell your travel insurance company the activities you intend to do, prior to you go. Many common activities like skiing are omitted in standard plans. You might require to pay additional.

Check if you have complimentary credit card travel insurance. Some cards include travel insurance cover. Nevertheless, they usually have various conditions than paid policies. Understand the differences.

If you’re going to Belarus from a country that has a reciprocatory health care agreement, you still need travel medical insurance. Agreements are restricted in what they’ll will cover.

If you have a terminal illness, you may not be able to get basic travel insurance. However you might be able to get a specialised insurer that covers you for health, accidents or property problems unconnected to your illness. Talk with your insurance firm to learn.

Find out more about getting worldwide travel insurance coverage for Belarus prior to you go.

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