Recently, a Russian-Belarusian agreement came into effect, according to which foreigners who have received a visa of Russia or Belarus will be able to cross the borders of the second country without obtaining an additional visa. Learn more about who can use the new option and when a foreigner can be refused entry

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Russia ratified the agreement with Belarus on mutual recognition of visas. From now on, foreigners who have issued a visa of Russia or Belarus will be able to cross the border of another state without additional visa issuance. The corresponding document was published on the official portal of legal information of Russia on January 27, 2023.

Who can use the new option?

According to the agreement, the regime of mutual recognition applies to foreigners who in Russia or Belarus received:

- tourist, study, work or other type of visa;

- temporary residence permit;

- residence permit;

- an invitation to attend an international sports event.

Also, it is worth noting that foreigners who have the right to visa-free entry to one of the countries will not need to issue a visa to cross the border of the second country.

More details about the visa regime in Russia for citizens of any country in the world can be found at the link. Read about the peculiarities of issuing entry documents to Belarus here.

When can a foreigner be denied entry?

According to the agreement, each of the countries will be able to refuse entry to a foreigner or shorten the period of stay on the territory of its state, if he threatens the security, defense capability, public order or health of the population of Russia or Belarus, as well as in a number of other cases provided for by law. 

The agreement will officially enter into force 30 days after the parties have completed all the necessary domestic procedures.