Belarus | Europe

Belarus is a landlocked nation in Eastern Europe, bordering Russia to the northeast, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, and Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest. Its geography is characterized by low-lying plains, approximately 11,000 lakes, and extensive forests covering 42% of the territory, including the largest ancient primeval forest in Europe; the capital city is Minsk.

Visa & Entry Policy

As of 2026, Belarus has extended its visa-free regime for citizens of 38 European states (including the UK and EU) through December 31, 2026. Eligible travelers may enter for up to 30 days via all international road, rail, and air border crossings. Citizens of Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia may stay for up to 90 days. Total visa-free stay cannot exceed 90 days per calendar year. Additionally, an e-Visa system launched in 2025 is available for citizens of 67 countries, including the United States. Passports must be valid for at least 90 days beyond the date of entry. Transit to Russia under the visa-free regime is prohibited.

Language & Communication

The official languages are Belarusian and Russian. Russian is the dominant language in urban centers, government, and media. Belarusian is widely understood but spoken less frequently in daily urban life. English proficiency is generally low outside of younger demographics in Minsk and major tourist hubs. The Cyrillic script is used exclusively for both languages.

Currency & Payment Systems

The currency is the Belarusian Ruble (BYN). While card payments and contactless systems are standard in Minsk and regional capitals, cash remains essential for small transactions, rural markets, and some public services. In 2026, the National Bank of Belarus is rolling out a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), the digital Belarusian ruble (DBR), primarily to facilitate cross-border trade. ATMs are widely available in cities but rare in rural villages.

National Transport Grid

Intercity travel is served by a robust rail network managed by Belarusian Railway (BCh), connecting Minsk to all regional centers (Brest, Grodno, Gomel, Mogilev, Vitebsk). The "Transport of Belarus" 2026–2030 program prioritizes the modernization of rolling stock and the introduction of electric buses on suburban routes, specifically connecting Minsk to its satellite towns. There are no domestic commercial flights; international flights operate primarily through Minsk National Airport (MSQ).

Digital Infrastructure

Primary mobile network providers are A1, MTS, and life:). 4G coverage is extensive in populated areas. As of 2026, 5G deployment is focused on major urban centers and industrial zones. Internet penetration is high (approx. 94%), and fiber-optic broadband is common in urban apartment blocks. Public Wi-Fi typically requires SMS authentication via a local or compatible international SIM.

Climate & Seasonality

The climate is moderate continental. Winters (December–February) are cold and snowy, with temperatures frequently dropping below −15°C. Summers (June–August) are warm and often humid, with averages between 17°C and 20°C, occasionally peaking at 30°C. July is the wettest month due to frequent thunderstorms.

Health & Safety

No mandatory vaccinations are required. Foreigners are required to have medical insurance covering at least €10,000, which can be purchased at the border. Tap water is generally safe in Minsk but may have a strong mineral taste; bottled water is recommended in rural areas. The universal emergency number is 112; specific lines are 101 (Fire), 102 (Police), and 103 (Ambulance).

Top 3 Major Regions & Cities

Minsk: The capital and primary industrial and cultural hub.

Brest Oblast: Primary hub is Brest (gateway to the West and Belovezhskaya Pushcha).

Grodno Oblast: Primary hub is Grodno (known for its preserved royal and ecclesiastical architecture).

Local Cost Index

1L Water: 1.60 BYN ($0.50 USD)

1 Domestic Beer: 4.50 BYN ($1.40 USD)

1 Sim Card (Data Plan): 25.00 BYN ($7.80 USD)

Facts & Legends

Belarus is home to the Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site containing the largest herd of European bison, the continent's heaviest land animal. A prominent cultural legend involves the "Fern Flower" (Paparats-kvetka); according to folklore, this flower blooms for only a few moments on Kupala Night (midsummer). The person who finds it is said to gain the ability to understand animal speech and locate buried treasures. Historically, the 16th-century scholar Francisk Skorina from Polatsk was among the first to print the Bible in an Eastern Slavic language.