Travel Vaccines and Advice for Belarus
Belarus is situated in northeastern Europe bordering Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. This country recently won its independence from the USSR in August 1991. But, Belarus has had a very diverse culture independent from Russia for much longer than that.
Belarusians are known for their hands-on approach to the many works they produce. This includes woodworking and glass blowing. The country also embraces the art and literary side of their culture by sponsoring annual cultural festivals.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Belarus?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Belarus?
What is the Climate Like in Belarus?
How Safe is Belarus?
Belovezhskaya Pushcha
What Should I Take to Belarus?
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Belarus
Do I Need Vaccines for Belarus?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Belarus. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Belarus: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tickborne encephalitis, rabies and tetanus.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for all travellers - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Accelerated schedule available - Tetanus –
Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. - Tickborne Encephalitis –
Ticks or Unpasteurised Products –
Transmission is widespread. Spread is most common from early spring to late autumn. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Belarus |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for all travellers |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
| Tetanus | Wounds or Breaks in Skin | Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. |
| Tickborne Encephalitis | Ticks or Unpasteurised Products | Transmission is widespread. Spread is most common from early spring to late autumn. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Belarus?
Travellers can stay up to 30 days without a visa. Entry and exit must be done at the Minsk International Airport. If you wish to stay longer, a visa is required. Passports must have at least three months validity.
NOTE: British nationals cannot enter Russia by road from Belarus.
Anyone staying more than five days must register with the local police office.
Belarus Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Belarus? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Belarus and GOV.UK
What is the Climate Like in Belarus?
Belarus has a moderate continental climate. It experiences cool, humid winters and warm summers. The country receives lots of rain and snowfall.
Peak summer temperatures in Belarus only reach the sixties. Winters are in the 20’s. There are areas of the country that spend more than a third of the year in sub-zero temperatures.
How Safe is Belarus?
Belarus has little street crime, but instances of mugging and pick-pocketing do occur. It’s best to avoid poorly lit areas and public transportation when alone as this makes you an easier target.
A traveller’s biggest threats in Belarus are organised crime and cyber-crime.
Cyber-crime in Belarus includes credit card skimming, hacking and identity theft. Consider using IR-shielded jackets or materials.
Vehicle theft is common in Belarus. Sport-utility and luxury vehicles tend to be the most sought-after.
Belovezhskaya Pushcha
Belovezhskaya Pushcha is the largest ancient forest in Europe. It is even mentioned in several ancient texts and scriptures, some dating back as far as fifth century B.C.
Nearly 800 bison of the largest bison population in the world call this forest home. Visitors to the forest can spend their day hiking or biking whilst spotting creatures along the way.
If roughing it in the wilderness isn’t for you, Belovezhskaya Pushcha still has a lot to offer. You can visit the nature museum and zoo or peruse the souvenir and food stands that can be found in this area.
What Should I Take to Belarus?
Here are some essential items to consider bringing on your trip to Belarus:
- Warm clothing
- Hiking boots
- Language conversion book for Belarusian and/or Russian
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Belarus
If you are in Belarus and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.
British Embassy Minsk
37, Karl Marx Street
Minsk
220030
Belarus
Telephone: +375 17 229 8200
Emergency Phone: +375 17 229 8200
Fax: +375 17 229 8206
Email: ukin.belarus@fco.gov.uk
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