Lukashenko introduces visa-free entry to Belarus for 35 European countries
Photo: Alexander Lukashenko (Getty Images)
The self-proclaimed leader of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, decided to demonstrate openness and peacefulness and introduced a temporary visa-free regime for citizens of 35 European countries, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus.
According to the Belarusian Foreign Ministry, Lukashenko supported the proposal to establish a procedure for temporary visa-free entry, exit and stay in the Republic of Belarus through all road and rail checkpoints for additional citizens of 35 European countries.
This decision was made to further demonstrate the openness and peacefulness of Belarus, as well as to facilitate interpersonal contacts and improve freedom of movement.
The visa-free regime will be in effect until December 31, 2024. Citizens of all European countries on the list can enter and exit through any land and air international border crossing points with valid documents and stay in the country for up to 30 days from the date of entry.
List of countries:
- Republic of Austria;
- Principality of Andorra;
- Kingdom of Belgium;
- Republic of Bulgaria;
- Bosnia and Herzegovina;
- Vatican City State;
- United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland;
- Hungary;
- The Hellenic Republic;
- The Kingdom of Denmark;
- Ireland;
- The Republic of Iceland;
- The Kingdom of Spain;
- The Republic of Italy;
- Republic of Cyprus;
- Principality of Liechtenstein;
- Grand Duchy of Luxembourg;
- Republic of Malta;
- Principality of Monaco;
- Kingdom of the Netherlands;
- Kingdom of Norway;
- The Republic of Portugal;
- Romania;
- Republic of San Marino;
- Republic of North Macedonia;
- Slovak Republic;
- Republic of Slovenia;
- Republic of Finland;
- French Republic;
- Federal Republic of Germany;
- Republic of Croatia;
- Czechia;
- Swiss Confederation;
- The Kingdom of Sweden;
- Republic of Estonia (including stateless persons permanently residing in the Republic of Estonia).
Belarus is helping Russia in the war
Since the first days of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Belarus has been supporting Russia by organizing joint exercises with Russia since April 29, 2022. As a result, Ukrainian border guards are enhancing the security of the border.
Lukashenko recently said that Belarus “does not want to go to war” but is preparing for it. He also noted that criticism from “unfriendly countries” shows that Belarus is doing the right thing, emphasizing that his country does not threaten anyone.
