Agreement on mutual recognition of visas between Russia and Belarus: new horizons for tourists

In January 2025, the long-awaited agreement between Russia and Belarus on mutual recognition of visas came into force, which promises to significantly simplify travel for foreign tourists. This agreement was an important step in the development of the tourism potential of the two countries and will significantly increase the attractiveness of their tourism product.

What does the agreement entail?

According to the new agreement, both countries will recognize visas issued by one of the parties, this will allow foreign citizens and stateless persons, as well as holders of residence permits issued by one of the two states, to travel freely between Russia and Belarus. Now, with a visa from one of the countries, tourists will be able to enter, exit and stay in the territories of both countries during the validity period of their visas.

The agreement will also cover other aspects related to the entry of foreign citizens and stateless persons into the territories of both states, as well as the procedure for crossing the land section of the border, which was previously available only for Russian citizens of Belarus.

How will entry be carried out?

Entry to the territories of Russia and Belarus will be carried out exclusively through international checkpoints, as well as along predetermined international rail, air and road routes, which are specified in the agreement.

However, it is important to note that crossing the land section of the Russian-Belarusian border by other routes not specified in the agreement will be strictly prohibited. Such actions will be considered a violation of the state border, which may entail legal consequences for the violators.

Restrictions and nuances

Nevertheless, the agreement contains certain nuances that must be taken into account. If for the specified categories of persons in one country a visa-free regime is established, and in another - visa regime, then to enter the territory of the visa country will require preliminary registration of a visa.

For example, European citizens, who can use the visa-free regime to enter Belarus, will face the need to obtain a visa to travel to Russia. And tourists, who have a single-entry visa to Russia, will not be able to return to Moscow after a visit to Minsk, which may cause some inconvenience.

Each party reserves the right to refuse entry or reduce the period of stay on its territory for any foreign citizen. Compliance with entry, exit and transit rules will also be checked.

This means that travelers should be attentive to the requirements in force in each country and take care of obtaining the necessary documents in advance to avoid possible problems when crossing the border.

The agreement on mutual recognition of visas between Russia and Belarus opens new horizons for tourists, making travel between the two countries more accessible and convenient. However, it is important to take into account the existing restrictions and plan trips in advance to avoid unpleasant situations.

Follow the news on the Buch-dein-Visum.de website to keep up to date with all the changes in visa policy and get up-to-date travel planning tips.