Residence permit application process

Russian citizens staying in Belarus for over 90 days must obtain a residence permit (VNZh). Requirements include proof of income (at least 30,000 rubles per person per month) or a bank statement confirming financial sufficiency. Consult the OGiM (Department of Citizenship and Migration) for detailed procedures.

For Russian citizens applying to colleges in Belarus, a Belarusian-standard medical certificate is generally required. While some Russian documents like fluorography results might be accepted, it's advisable to obtain a Belarusian certificate. It's recommended to complete medical check-ups and tests in Russia first (often free) and then present these to a local Belarusian clinic for a locally compliant certificate. Ensure the certificate accurately states the college's specialty. Additionally, bring vaccination records, an HIV test from a specialized institution, and certificates from psychiatric and drug addiction dispensaries. Colleges usually provide referral for medical examinations. For temporary residency (VNZh), specific medical documentation requirements apply, including potential need for in-country examinations.

Russian citizens can obtain a Temporary Residence Permit (RVP) and subsequently a Residence Permit (known as VNJ in Belarus) in Belarus. The process typically involves applying for RVP first, which may require proof of intended place of residence (e.g., rental agreement or ownership of property). Once RVP is approved, a permanent registration is needed to obtain the VNJ card. A certificate of no criminal record from the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs is required, along with a medical examination conducted in Belarus. Fingerprinting is also part of the process for both RVP and VNJ. Some sources suggest that Russians might be able to apply directly for VNJ under certain conditions, possibly bypassing the RVP step, but the standard procedure is RVP first.

When applying for temporary residency in Belarus, Russian medical certificates may not be accepted. It is often necessary to undergo a medical examination and obtain documents from local Belarusian clinics, including re-taking tests like fluorography, even if recently done in Russia.

Belarusian President Lukashenko has approved a draft agreement with Russia to simplify the process for Russian citizens to obtain residency permits (VNZh - temporary, PMPZh - permanent). Key changes include potentially allowing all Russian citizens to apply for VNZh and reducing the processing time for permanent residency applications from 3 to 2 months. The exact implementation, required documents, and differences from current regulations are under discussion. It is noted that the approval is for a draft agreement, and a formal legislative process is still required.

Citizens of the Russian Federation can apply for a Permanent Residence Permit (VNZH) in Belarus without specific 'reasons' (like property ownership or marriage) due to the Union State agreement. Requirements: valid Russian passport, proof of permanent registration, and a medical certificate (form 1 zdr/u-10) issued in Belarus. Foreign medical documents (like those from Russia) are generally not accepted for the mandatory local health assessment. VNZH procedure often involves: medical exam, biography, and payment of administrative fees (usually 2 base units for permit + ID card).

For Israeli citizens seeking a Temporary Residence Permit (VNZH) in Belarus, having a grandparent born in Belarus is generally not sufficient grounds if the grandparent did not retain Belarusian citizenship or residency. In such cases, obtaining a VNZH typically requires other pathways, such as purchasing real estate or obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit (RVP) based on employment or study. It is advisable to investigate these alternative routes for obtaining residency.