Travel advice and advisories for Belarus

Belarus – AVOID ALL TRAVEL

Avoid all travel to Belarus due to the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

The ability of the Embassy of Canada to Poland to provide consular services in Belarus is extremely limited. If you are in Belarus you should leave by commercial means.

Safety and security

Armed conflict in Ukraine

In February 2022, Russia launched a military invasion of Ukraine. Russian forces are conducting military operations from Belarus.

Several countries, including Canada, have imposed sanctions on Belarus for its role in the conflict.

Certain international companies suspended their operations in the country.

This situation is disrupting certain essential services such as:

banking services
transportation
courier services

Flight options to leave Belarus are very limited. The situation in Belarus could deteriorate further.

The ability of the Embassy of Canada to Poland to provide consular services in Belarus is extremely limited. If you are in Belarus, you should leave by commercial means.
You should not depend on the Government of Canada to help you leave the country.

If you decide to remain in Belarus despite this advisory:

monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving situation
ensure that your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
review your personal security plans on a daily basis
make sure you have an adequate supply of cash, essential items and medications
be prepared to shelter in place
expect transportation routes and essential services disruptions
communicate your travel plans to family and friends
register and update your contact information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Belarus to do so

COVID-19 – Preventative measures and restrictions

COVID-19 preventative measures and restrictions are still in effect in some destinations.

These could include:

curfews, movement restrictions, or lockdowns
mandatory mask use
required proof of vaccination or a COVID-19 test result to access public and private services and spaces

Before travelling, verify if specific restrictions or requirements are still in effect.

Foreign Representatives in Canada

Political situation

Large demonstrations against the government were held in the months following the presidential elections of August 2020. Local authorities responded with a violent crackdown on protesters, and tens of thousands of individuals were detained.

While the demonstrations are now less frequent, authorities are still actively targeting political opposition, journalists, and individuals perceived to be critical of the government, even for activities that took place outside of Belarus. Local authorities may enforce local laws in an arbitrary manner.

Journalists are particularly scrutinized. There are reports of intimidation, harassment and violence against local and foreign journalists, and some have been detained or have had their equipment confiscated.

On May 23, 2021, the Belarusian government forced the diversion of a commercial flight under false pretences to arrest a journalist. Since then, several countries, including Canada, advise their airlines to avoid Belarusian airspace due to serious safety and security concerns. As such, air transportation options to leave Belarus may be restricted.

The political situation remains fluid and unpredictable. Authorities could enforce security restrictions without notice.

If you are in Belarus:

be vigilant at all times
avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
expect a heightened security presence and security checks
avoid expressions of dissent or making statements critical of or sensitive to the government
monitor local media for the latest information

Surveillance

Security authorities may place foreigners under surveillance. Hotel rooms, telephones, fax machines and e-mail messages may be monitored. Personal possessions in hotel rooms may be searched. Foreigners have been expelled from the country for working with Belarusian civil-society groups.

Crime

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occur, particularly in the cities of:

Brest
Gomel
Grodno
Minsk
Mogilev
Vitebsk

Such crimes are especially common after dark in and around hotels and hostels frequented by foreigners.

Be vigilant when crossing the border with Poland at Brest due to the risk of mugging.

Theft of luxury cars is common. Park any vehicle in a secure location or guarded lot, and always keep valuables out of sight.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash. Always be aware of your surroundings.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. There is a potential for other violent incidents.

Targets could include:

government buildings, including schools
places of worship
airports and other transportation hubs and networks
public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are frequent. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Fraud

Debit- and credit-card fraud is common. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

More about overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Road safety

Roads are generally in good condition; however, many may be impassable in winter.

Drivers generally have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe-driving practices.

Horse-drawn carts are a common road hazard in rural areas.

Radar traps are widespread.

Public transportation

Use only officially marked taxis and do not share them with strangers. Fares vary greatly, and vehicles are often poorly maintained.

Buses and trolleys are poorly maintained and are usually crowded and unheated.

Exercise caution when travelling by train, especially on sleeper trains to Warsaw and Moscow. Store valuables in a safe place and do not leave your compartment unattended. Ensure that the door is secured from the inside.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

General information about foreign domestic airlines

General safety information

Tourist facilities are limited and only available in the larger cities.

Natural disasters and climate

Belarus is not prone to natural disasters.