Belarus may extend visa-free period for citizens from 35 European countries

Belarus plans to implement a 90-day visa-free period for citizens from 35 European countries, a move indicating a potential easing of tensions with the West.

The new policy allows nationals from these countries, including Germany, UK, and France, to enter Belarus without a visa and stay for up to 90 days annually, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

Previously, visitors were limited to a 30-day stay and required to arrive via Minsk airport.

The national border service announced that the new policy will come into effect on July 19. Minsk remains under Western sanctions following President Alexander Lukashenko's decision to permit Russian troops' transit through Belarusian territory into Ukraine in 2022.

Last week, Lukashenko withdrew troops stationed on the Ukrainian border, indicating a potential easing of tensions with Kyiv. Lukashenko was quoted by the official BelTA news agency, stating, "...There are now no difficulties with the Ukrainians and I hope there will be none."

Belarus already maintains a 90-day visa-free regime with neighbouring countries and EU member states - Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland.