Belarus Passport – A Comprehensive Guide for Citizens and Travelers
The Belarus passport is the primary identification and international travel document issued to citizens of the Republic of Belarus. It serves as official proof of citizenship and is necessary for traveling abroad, accessing government services, and conducting legal transactions.
What is a Belarus Passport?
The Belarusian passport is both an internal and external ID document. It is used domestically for identification and residence registration and internationally as a travel document. Belarus does not issue separate identity cards, so the passport is required for many official procedures inside the country as well.
Key Features of the Belarus Passport
- Dark blue cover with the national coat of arms
- Contains biographical data, photo, and signature of the holder
- Machine-readable with biometric data in newer versions
- Written in Belarusian, Russian, and English
- Used for both domestic ID and international travel
Types of Belarusian Passports
- General Civil Passport – Standard passport for all Belarusian citizens from age 14
- Diplomatic Passport – For diplomats and certain government officials
- Service Passport – For individuals on official business for the government
- Child Passport – Issued to children under 14 for travel abroad
- Temporary Passport – For citizens without a permanent document
Passport Validity
- 10 years for adults
- 5 years for children under 14
- Can be renewed up to 6 months before expiration
Who Can Get a Belarus Passport?
You must be a Belarusian citizen to be eligible. Citizenship is obtained by birth, naturalization, or reinstatement after loss. Belarus generally does not allow dual citizenship unless special permission is granted.
Required Documents for Application
For a new or renewed passport, the following are usually required:
- Completed application form
- Birth certificate (for first-time applicants)
- Proof of Belarusian citizenship
- Internal passport (if renewing)
- Marriage or divorce certificate (if applicable)
- Military ID or registration (for male citizens)
- Passport photos (meeting official biometric standards)
- Receipt of payment for the state fee
Where to Apply
- In Belarus: Applications are submitted at the local Department of Citizenship and Migration (ОВИР).
- Abroad: Belarusian embassies and consulates handle passport services for citizens living outside the country.
Fees (Approximate)
- Regular adult passport: around 100 Belarusian rubles
- Child passport: lower fee
- Express processing and replacement fees: additional charges may apply
Processing Time
- Standard: 1 month
- Expedited: from 5 to 15 days, depending on service location
Belarus Passport Strength
As of recent global passport rankings, the Belarus passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to around 80 countries, including Russia, Turkey, the UAE, and most CIS nations. However, most Western countries require a visa.
Lost or Stolen Passport
If your passport is lost or stolen, report it immediately to:
- The local police (if abroad)
- The nearest Belarusian consulate or embassy
- The Department of Citizenship and Migration (if in Belarus)
A temporary document may be issued to allow you to return to Belarus.
Conclusion
The Belarus passport is essential for travel, identity verification, and legal affairs both in Belarus and abroad. Citizens should ensure their passport remains valid and up to date to avoid complications during travel or when accessing government services.
To apply, renew, or replace your Belarus passport, contact the nearest OVIR office in Belarus or your local Belarusian embassy or consulate if living abroad.
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