Maximum Alerts / Belarus
BelarusLevel 4/4
Level published by the State Department on 28.12.2025 · read 16 October 2026 · source checked daily
Belarus — official level as of 16 October 2026: Level 4/4 ("Do Not Travel"), from the U.S. Department of State. Maximum Insurance covers this country: hospital settled directly, unlimited repatriation, EUR 1.5M, certificate on payment.
How we read these four advisories
Every country has its own scale, so we ask them all the same question: is the whole country advised against?
An advisory covering only areas of the country does not raise the answer: it stays “No”, and the area is shown in the relevant column.
The level shown on this page — and across this site — is the one published by the U.S. State Department, from 1 (normal precautions) to 4 (do not travel). France and the United Kingdom publish their own advisories, with their own rules: they add to that level, they do not replace it.
In a life-threatening emergency, call local emergency services first, then Maximum: +41 22 ••• •• •• — 24/7 support number, an adviser stays with you to the end.
What Maximum knows
The 207 country pages — hospitals, pharmacies, police, embassies, emergency numbers, official advice from four governments, health, safety in figures, events in progress — read around the city you name. Your policy — benefits, the six steps, claims, articles. The site — prices, certificate, subscription. Nothing else: what it does not know, it says so and hands you to an adviser.
What I say on the phone
- I am insured with Maximum, here is my policy number. Where should I go? Send me to a hospital in the Maximum network.
- Send the payment guarantee to the hospital: I do not want to pay anything up front.
- For non-urgent transport or repatriation, tell me what you authorise and arrange. In a life-threatening emergency, I call local emergency services immediately.
What to do, in this order
1Contact assistance without delay›
In immediate danger, call local emergency services first. Then contact assistance without delay; before engaging a service, seek approval under your policy. Cover is confirmed by the insurer.
2Ask where to get care›
Ask assistance where to get care and whether direct cover can be arranged. It confirms the facility and seeks the insurer's approval under your policy. In immediate danger, call local emergency services first.
3See a doctor the same day›
Even for a pain you meant to shrug off. Without a medical certificate written on the spot, the same day, the insurer cannot cover the event — a certificate written after you return does not count.
4Admitted? Have the hospital front desk call Maximum›
The hospital desk sends the request to assistance. Direct payment depends on the insurer's approval and the policy; the call alone does not guarantee it. Have the response confirmed before relying on no up-front payment.
5For non-urgent transport, seek assistance approval›
In a life-threatening emergency, call local emergency services immediately. For an arranged transfer or repatriation, contact assistance: the insurer's medical team decides on measures under the policy. A medical flight booked without approval may not be reimbursed.
6Once home, report the claim within 30 days›
Even if everything went well on the ground. Send your invoices and the medical report within 30 days; after that, compensation may be reduced or refused.
Places read from OpenStreetMap, within a circle of about 12 km: phone, email, address, website and hours when the source publishes them. No customer reviews, that source has none. Straight-line distances.
What is your current insurance?
Notices vary by bank and vintage — yours prevails. On the right: the Maximum contract (public documents).
Where to go, where not to
At least one official reading covers the whole country; no region is singled out.
- Canada advises against all travel to Belarus due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Global Affairs Canada
- The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to Belarus, as you face significant arrest risk if you have engaged in any activity now deemed illegal by the Belarusian regime. Foreign Office
- The UK Foreign Office notes a low risk that direct conflict linked to the war in Ukraine may spread to Belarus. Foreign Office
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
Global Affairs Canada — advises against all travel to the whole country.
Foreign Office — advises against all travel to the whole country.
an official reading covers the whole country; every trip calls for a written management decision, justified by a pressing reason, with reinforced conditions.
Global Affairs Canada — Open Government Licence – Canada (14.10.2026) · Foreign Office — Open Government Licence v3.0 · France Diplomatie (27.05.2026) · Natural Earth
Last change: Updated information on buying flight tickets if the journey is starting in, or within, Russia ('Safety and security’ page)
Belarus - Level 4: Do Not TravelState Department ↗updated 28.12.2025 · read 16.10.2026
Updated 28.12.2025
Do not travel to Belarus for any reason due to unrest and other risks .
The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to help detained U.S. citizens. You may not receive consular access. You could also face arbitrary detention with no contact with the outside world.
Ordered departure
On February 28, 2022, the U.S. Department of State ordered the departure of U.S. government employees. It also suspended operations at U.S. Embassy Minsk.
There are no consular services, routine or emergency, until further notice. The U.S. government has severely limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in Belarus. U.S. citizens in Belarus who require consular services should leave the country immediately. Please contact a U.S. embassy or consulate in another country.
Dual citizenship
Belarus does not recognize dual nationality. Belarus will not recognize your U.S. citizenship if you are a dual U.S.-Belarusian citizen or have a claim to Belarusian citizenship.
- Belarus repeatedly has blocked U.S. consular officers from visiting detained dual U.S.-Belarusian citizens.
- The Belarusian government has prevented dual U.S.-Belarusian citizens from departing the country. In some cases, it has forced dual citizens into mandatory military service.
Demonstrations
In Belarus, freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly are not protected rights.
- U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations.
- Belarusian authorities have used excessive force to disperse demonstrators, including people peacefully demonstrating. Bystanders, including foreign nationals, face the possibility of arbitrary arrest or detention.
- U.S. citizens near demonstrations have been arrested. Some have been victims of harassment or mistreatment by Belarusian officials.
- Belarusian officials unevenly enforce laws and regulations. Belarusian authorities have targeted people linked to independent and foreign media.
- Belarusian authorities have detained tens of thousands of people, including many imprisoned for political activities that may not be considered crimes in the United States. This includes U.S. citizens tied to opposition parties or political protests, even if they happened outside Belarus.
Detention conditions
Belarusian detention facilities are extremely poor. There are credible reports that authorities mistreat and abuse prisoners while in custody.
- The Belarusian…
Nearest river dischargeOpen-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026
10-16 0.3 · 10-17 0.2 · 10-18 0.2 · 10-19 0.2 · 10-20 0.2 · 10-21 0.1 · 10-22 0.1 m³/s
Simulated discharge: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Emergency Management Service information 2026. For information only: this is not a flood warning; only national or regional authorities issue those.
What the national level does not tell you
The level is national. Risk areas are in the state advisories below.
- U.S. State Department — the full advisory details the regions concerned and the reasons (crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest) (read the advisory)
- Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (United Kingdom) — the United Kingdom advises against ALL travel to the whole country · reviewed 10 September 2026
Last announced change : « Updated information on buying flight tickets if the journey is starting in, or within, Russia ('Safety and security’ page) » (read the advisory) - France Diplomatie — the French advisory covers the WHOLE country: « l’ensemble du territoire de la Biélorussie est formellement déconseillé. » (read the advisory)
1 event located on the map
- Belarus — Do Not Travel — level 4/4, U.S. State Department (source)
Reading: The homicide rate is 4 times Switzerland's: violence is a real risk there, concentrated in the areas named by the official advisories. On the road, 3 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.
World Bank (UNODC for homicides, WHO for roads) — latest published valuedata.worldbank.org ↗read 09.10.2026
What we locate on the map are events in progress that have real coordinates: USGS earthquakes, GDACS disasters, NOAA storms and open NASA EONET events. Hover a dot for details, click to open it in this briefing.
French passport — France Diplomatie
- All of Belarus territory is formally advised against due to military tensions between Ukraine and Belarus. France Diplomatie
- Avoid all political gatherings and any hostility toward authorities or state representatives; photographing official buildings, courts, or police is strictly discouraged. France Diplomatie
- Body and mobile phone searches are frequent for all persons including foreigners; certain websites and social media profiles may be classified as extremist or terrorist, exposing users to reprisals. France Diplomatie
- Do not wear white and red clothing; always carry identity documents. France Diplomatie
- Winter tires are mandatory from 1 December to 1 March; exercise extreme caution during winter driving and night driving on secondary roads due to collision risks with poorly lit agricultural vehicles and wildlife. France Diplomatie
- In 2023, Belarus recorded 3,173 road accidents causing 3,417 deaths; summer brings heavy rain and violent storms; chemical and petrochemical factories near major cities pose industrial accident risks. France Diplomatie
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
l’ensemble du territoire de la Biélorussie est formellement déconseillé.France Diplomatie ↗updated 18.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
Biélorussie
- Présentation de la Biélorussie
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Zones de vigilance
Dernière actualisation le 27/05/2026, information toujours valable à la date du jour
Régions formellement déconseillées (rouge)
Dans le contexte des tensions militaires entre l’Ukraine et la Biélorussie l’ensemble du territoire de la Biélorussie est formellement déconseillé.
Risques politiques
Depuis 2020, toute forme d’opposition au régime est réprimée. Il est donc recommandé de demeurer à l’écart de tout rassemblement à caractère politique, de ne manifester aucune hostilité à l’égard des forces de l’ordre ou de tout représentant de l’État. La prise de photographies de vidéos de bâtiments officiels, notamment des tribunaux ou des forces de l’ordre, est strictement déconseillée.
La fouille au corps et celle des téléphones portables sont fréquentes, y compris pour les étrangers. Certains sites Internet et profils sur les réseaux sociaux peuvent être classés médias « extrémistes » ou « terroristes » par les autorités. Leur consultation expose à des représailles. Il en va de même pour le partage d’opinions en ligne dont la teneur peut également se révéler répréhensible.
Ne pas porter de vêtements blancs et rouges, et toujours être en possession de ses documents d’identité.
Risques liés aux transports
Selon les statistiques de l’agence de sécurité des routes biélorusses publiées en avril 2024, plus de 3173 accidents de la route ayant causé 3417 décès ont été répertoriés en 2023.
Les grands axes routiers sont bien entretenus, à la différence du réseau secondaire, souvent plus ancien.
En raison des conditions climatiques, la conduite hivernale requiert une grande prudence. Il en va de même pour la conduite de nuit, en particulier sur le réseau secondaire, du fait des risques de collision avec des véhicules agricoles mal éclairés ou avec du gros gibier sur les routes bordées de forêts.
Une singularité des autoroutes biélorusses est la présence de passages pour piétons. Il convient d’être très attentif à leur signalisation et de respecter les limitations de vitesse. Les pneus hiver sont obligatoires du 1er décembre au 1er mars.
Risques naturels
Outre des conditions climatiques parfois extrêmes en hiver, la Biélorussie connaît, souvent en été, des épisodes de fortes pluies accompagnées de violentes tempêtes pouvant causer des dégâts matériels importants et, parfois faire, des victimes.
Il convient d’être attentif aux alertes et consignes des services météorologiques.
Risques industriels
Des usines chimiques et pétrochimiques, parfois vieillissantes, sont présentes à proximité de grandes agglomérations. Des incidents provoquant des victimes ne sauraient être exclus. En cas d’accident, il convient de se tenir informé de la situation et de suivre les consignes transmises par les autorités locales.
Terrorisme
Le risque terroriste est une menace prise en compte par les autorités. Deux attentats terroristes ont été commis dans le métro de Minsk en 2008 et 2011, faisant plusieurs dizaines de morts.
Délinquance
Il y a peu de délinquance en Biélorussie, ce qui n’exonère pas le voyageur des précautions d’usage dans les lieux publics.
Full text of the Security pagediplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 18.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
Swiss passport — FDFA (Switzerland), in French
- The Swiss FDFA advises against all travel to Belarus due to unpredictable conditions caused by Russia's war against Ukraine and high regional tensions. DFAE
- International airlines have reduced or suspended flights to Belarus. Borders with European countries are only partially open to passenger traffic, with possible short-term closures and long waiting times expected. DFAE
- Criticism of the state or its representatives risks imprisonment. Photography of military installations, reporting on army movements, and disclosing information about Belarusian military activities, including on social media, are prohibited. DFAE
- Even minimal possession of any drug is severely punished under Belarusian narcotics laws. DFAE
- Terrorist attacks cannot be excluded in Belarus. Swiss nationals should keep travel documents with them, avoid crowds and demonstrations, and follow local contacts' advice on behaviour. DFAE
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
FDFA update note — Le chapitre Situation générale a été complété (entrée et sortie du pays des personnes de nationalité bélarussienne). (published 25.08.2026)
General assessment
Les voyages à destination du Bélarus sont déconseillés. En raison de la guerre menée par la Russie contre l’Ukraine, la situation est imprévisible au Bélarus. Les tensions régionales sont élevées. Les compagnies aériennes internationales ont réduit ou suspendu leurs vols à destination du Bélarus . Pour tout renseignement, adressez-vous aux compagnies aériennes. Les frontières avec les pays européens ne sont que partiellement ouvertes au trafic passager et des fermetures à court terme sont possibles. Il faut s'attendre à de longs délais d'attente aux passages de frontières. Les autorités locales et l’Ambassade de la République du Bélarus à Berne délivrent des renseignements sur les dispositions en vigueur. Toute critique à l’encontre de l’État et des personnes qui le représentent est passible d’emprisonnement. Il est interdit de photographier les installations militaires, de rendre compte des mouvements de l’armée et de divulguer des informations sur les activités de l’armée bélarussienne (y compris sur les médias sociaux). Les commentaires et appréciations sur les médias sociaux ainsi que les informations pouvant présenter un caractère politique peuvent être punis. Les lois applicables sont très restrictives et peuvent être appliquées de manière rigoureuse. Les infractions à la loi sur les stupéfiants, y compris la détention de quantités minimes de n’importe quelle drogue, sont sévèrement réprimées. Les personnes ayant la double nationalité bélarussienne et suisse sont considérées par les autorités bélarussiens comme des ressortissants bélarussiens. Selon la législation bélarussienne, les personnes de nationalité bélarussienne doivent utiliser un passeport bélarussien en cours de validité pour entrer et sortir du pays. Cette règle s'applique également aux enfants de mariages ou d'unions mixtes, même s'ils ne sont pas nés au Bélarus. L’octroi de la protection consulaire par la Suisse est souvent possible, mais n'est pas automatiquement garantie. Le risque d'attentats terroristes ne peut pas être exclu au Bélarus non plus. La rubrique terrorisme et enlèvements attire l'attention sur les risques liés au terrorisme. Terrorisme et enlèvements Pour les p ersonnes de nationalité suisse qui se trouvent au Bélarus: Informez-vous au travers des médias ou par le biais d’une personne de contact locale sur la situation actuelle. Gardez toujours sur vous vos documents de voyage. Suivez les conseils des personnes de contact sur place concernant les comportements à adopter. Tenez-vous à l’écart des rassemblements de foule et des manifestations de tout genre,…
FDFA travel advice, in French, valid on 15.10.2026eda.admin.ch ↗updated 25.08.2026 · read 15.10.2026
British passport — Foreign Office (UK)
- The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Belarus. Travelling against this advice may invalidate your travel insurance. Foreign Office
- You face significant arrest risk in Belarus if you have engaged in any activity now considered illegal by the regime, including political activity or donations to banned organisations. Foreign Office
- Belarus does not recognise dual nationality. Dual British-Belarusian nationals will be treated as Belarusian citizens, and the UK government cannot provide consular assistance if arrested. Foreign Office
- Compulsory military service applies to all males aged 18 to 27 in Belarus. Dual UK-Belarus nationals in this age group may be liable and should verify their status before travelling. Foreign Office
- Distributing, reposting or storing BBC.com content is now an offence under Belarusian law, as BBC News Russian content has been designated extremist material. Foreign Office
- Security forces may conduct stop and searches and demand phone unlocking. Carry your passport or a printed copy of its photo page, and your visa if you have one. Foreign Office
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
Regions covered by the Foreign Officegov.uk ↗updated 10.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
- FCDO advises against all travel to Belarus. You face a significant risk of arrest if you have at any time engaged in any activity now considered illegal by the Belarusian regime. There is also a low risk that direct conflict linked to the war in Ukraine may spread to Belarus. Find out more about why FCDO advises against all travel.
Warnings — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 10.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
Warnings — Foreign Office
Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
## FCDO advises against all travel to Belarus
FCDO advises against all travel to Belarus. You face a significant risk of arrest if you have at any time engaged in any activity now considered illegal by the Belarusian regime.
There is also a low risk that direct conflict linked to the war in Ukraine may spread to Belarus. Find out more about why FCDO advises against all travel .
Limited UK government support
In the unlikely event that conflict starts, FCDO ’s ability to support British nationals will be severely limited.
Dual nationals
Belarus does not recognise dual nationality. If you have both Belarusian and British passports, the authorities will consider you Belarusian, even if you enter the country on your British passport. Dual British-Belarusian nationality will not reduce your risk of arrest, questioning, or detention if you have engaged in any political activity related to Belarus. This limits the UK government’s ability to help you. See Safety and security .
Travel insurance
If you choose to travel against FCDO advice, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and potential expenses in an emergency.
Safety — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 10.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .
Terrorism in Belarus
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Belarus, attacks cannot be ruled out.
Attacks could happen anywhere and could affect western interests and places visited by foreign nationals.
Political situation
Demonstrations and protests are possible and could become confrontational, with security forces likely to use force to disperse and detain demonstrators. The authorities launched a violent crackdown against demonstrators across Belarus after the 2020 presidential elections.
Belarus is still a repressive environment. You should:
- stay vigilant
- avoid crowds
- if protests break out, leave the area immediately
There is often a heightened security presence, including on the streets of Minsk and other major cities. Security forces (some may be in plain clothes) might carry out a stop and search or ask for identification documents, and require you to unlock your phone. Make sure you carry your passport or a printed copy of the photo page of your passport, and visa if you have one.
Risk of arrest and detention
You face a significant risk of arrest, questioning or detention if you have engaged in any political activity related to Belarus. This can include having donated to organisations or supported activity now considered illegal by the Belarusian regime. Laws can be applied retroactively by the authorities.
If the authorities suspect you of engaging in and supporting activities against Belarusian law (including political activities), even if activities took place outside Belarus, you may be subject to:
- deportation
- detention
- investigation
- prosecution
The risk of arrest and detention is greater for those, including for dual nationals, who have previously been involved in activities inside or outside of Belarus, or on social media, which the authorities have since classed as illegal.
Mobile phones and other personal items may be seized and inspected by the authorities, including at the border upon entering Belarus.
Belarus has designated BBC News Russian content as “extremist material” under BBC.com. Distributing, reposting or storing material from BBC.com is now an offence under Belarusian law.
Dual nationals
Belarus does not recognise dual nationality. Even if you have both Belarusian and British passports, the authorities will consider you Belarusian. Dual British-Belarusian nationality will not reduce your risk of arrest, questioning, or detention if you have engaged in any political activity related to Belarus. In the event of arrest or detention, Belarusian authorities are unlikely to allow FCDO consular access. This limits the UK government’s ability to help you.
Military service
In Belarus, military service is compulsory for all males between the ages of 18 and 27. Dual UK-Belarus nationals in that age group may be liable for military service and should check before travelling to Belarus.
Russian military activity
The Belarusian regime is facilitating Russia’s war against Ukraine. Russian military activity is taking place inside Belarus. The situation is unpredictable and there is a low risk that direct conflict linked to…
American passport — U.S. Department of State
- The U.S. State Department orders all citizens to avoid Belarus due to harassment by security officials, arbitrary law enforcement, civil unrest risk, and Russia war support. State Department
- U.S. Embassy Minsk suspended operations on February 28, 2022. No consular services exist; citizens requiring assistance must leave immediately and contact another U.S. embassy. State Department
- Dual U.S.-Belarusian citizens face forced military service and exit bans. Belarus does not recognize U.S. citizenship for dual nationals and blocks consular access to detained dual citizens. State Department
- Belarusian authorities use excessive force against demonstrators and arrest bystanders, including foreign nationals. U.S. citizens must avoid all demonstrations and public gatherings. State Department
- The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to help detained Americans. Detained citizens may face arbitrary detention without outside contact or consular access. State Department
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
Belarus - Level 4: Do Not Travel 2025-12-28travel.state.gov ↗updated 28.12.2025 · read 16.10.2026
Advisory summary
Do not travel to Belarus for any reason due to unrest and other risks .
The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to help detained U.S. citizens. You may not receive consular access. You could also face arbitrary detention with no contact with the outside world.
Ordered departure
On February 28, 2022, the U.S. Department of State ordered the departure of U.S. government employees. It also suspended operations at U.S. Embassy Minsk.
There are no consular services, routine or emergency, until further notice. The U.S. government has severely limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in Belarus. U.S. citizens in Belarus who require consular services should leave the country immediately. Please contact a U.S. embassy or consulate in another country.
Dual citizenship
Belarus does not recognize dual nationality. Belarus will not recognize your U.S. citizenship if you are a dual U.S.-Belarusian citizen or have a claim to Belarusian citizenship.
- Belarus repeatedly has blocked U.S. consular officers from visiting detained dual U.S.-Belarusian citizens.
- The Belarusian government has prevented dual U.S.-Belarusian citizens from departing the country. In some cases, it has forced dual citizens into mandatory military service.
Demonstrations
In Belarus, freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly are not protected rights.
- U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations.
- Belarusian authorities have used excessive force to disperse demonstrators, including people peacefully demonstrating. Bystanders, including foreign nationals, face the possibility of arbitrary arrest or detention.
- U.S. citizens near demonstrations have been arrested. Some have been victims of harassment or mistreatment by Belarusian officials.
- Belarusian officials unevenly enforce laws and regulations. Belarusian authorities have targeted people linked to independent and foreign media.
- Belarusian authorities have detained tens of thousands of people, including many imprisoned for political activities that may not be considered crimes in the United States. This includes U.S. citizens tied to opposition parties or political protests, even if they happened outside Belarus.
Detention conditions
Belarusian detention facilities are extremely poor. There are credible reports that authorities mistreat and abuse prisoners while in custody.
- The Belarusian…
Global Affairs Canada — additional reading
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.
- BELARUS — Avoid all travel to Belarus due to the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Open Government Licence – Canada · October 14, 2026 09:05 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 14.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026
- You must carry originals of your passport, visa and migration card at all times in Belarus; failure to show them may lead to arrest and detention. Global Affairs Canada
- Penalties for drug possession, use or trafficking in Belarus include up to 5 years in prison for small amounts and up to 25 years for smuggling or trafficking, with heavy fines; these apply even during transit. Foreign Office
- Male Belarusian citizens aged 18–27 may face mandatory military service; dual Canadian-Belarusian citizens trying to avoid it risk arrest, forced conscription or travel bans. Global Affairs Canada
- You must carry an international driving permit in Belarus; there is zero tolerance for drinking and driving, and headlights must be on from November 1 to March 31. Global Affairs Canada
- Photography of military installations, public buildings or monuments is prohibited without prior permission from local authorities. Global Affairs Canada
- The Belarusian ruble (BYR) is the only legal currency for cash transactions; using foreign currency can result in arrest, and currency must be exchanged at government-licensed booths with a valid passport. Global Affairs Canada
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
Global Affairs Canada — written for Canadian travellers, valid for all
Local laws
You must abide by local laws. Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences. Drugs, alcohol and travel
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Belarus. If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Belarus, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Belarusian court. If you are in this situation:
- act as quickly as you can
- contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in Belarus to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies. Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.
Mandatory military service
Male Belarusian citizens between the ages of 18 and 27 may be subject to mandatory military service. Local authorities may arrest you, force you into military service or prevent you from leaving the country if you’re a dual Canadian-Belarusian citizen and you try to avoid military service. On the call-up of reserve officers for military service – President of the Republic of Belarus
Identification
Always carry originals of your passport, visa and migration card. You may be asked at any time to prove your identity and date of entry into the country. You could be arrested and detained if you fail to show internationally recognized identification.
Photography
Photography of military installations, public buildings and monuments may result in a penalty. Seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs.
Death Penalty
Belarusian authorities apply, sometimes arbitrarily, the death penalty for certain crimes, including for attempts to carry out acts of terrorism.
Driving
You must carry an international driving permit. There is a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Traffic safety in Belarus is controlled by uniformed police officers known as DAI in Belarusian and GAI in Russian. If a traffic police officer waves a striped wand or points a red retro-reflector at you, you must pull over and stop, and be ready to present driving and insurance documents. You must keep your headlights on at all times between November 1 and March 31.
Highway fees
There is a digital road toll system, BelToll, to collect tolls on highways. You must pay an additional fee if you are driving a vehicle not registered in Belarus.
Driving near border areas
Additional security checkpoints are common on roads near border crossings. The Belarusian government may enforce a requirement for special permits to travel in “protected border zones.” Be alert for warning signs, road barriers or border-guard posts. Do not cross into such areas without permission. For more information, contact the embassy of Belarus.
Money
The currency is the Belarusian ruble (BYR). Credit cards are accepted by many hotels, restaurants and stores, especially in Minsk. ATMs are available in major cities to withdraw rubles. You must pay for goods and services in Belarusian rubles. The use of foreign currency in cash transactions is prohibited. You could face arrest if you attempt to buy an item with currency other than Belarusian rubles. Exchange foreign currency at government-licensed booths only. You must present a valid passport to purchase foreign currency.
Open Government Licence – Canada · October 14, 2026 09:05 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 14.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026
Foreign Office — laws and cultural differences
Illegal drugs
There are severe penalties for drug-related crimes in Belarus. Possession of illegal drugs, including small amounts of Class C substances such as cannabis, can result in prison sentences of up to 5 years. More serious offences, such as smuggling or trafficking, carry penalties of up to 25 years in prison and heavy fines. These laws apply even if you are only transiting through the airport. Airports in Belarus have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers. You should expect strict enforcement and serious consequences if found in possession of illegal substances.
LGBT+ travellers
Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Belarus. However, Belarus is still a conservative society and the LGBT+ scene is very low profile. Very few LGBT+ people are open about their sexuality. Read more advice for LGBT travellers.
Surrogacy
FCDO advises against commissioning surrogacy arrangements in Belarus. If you are a British national with existing surrogacy arrangements in Belarus, contact FCDO on 01908 516 666 if you have not already done so. If you already have surrogacy arrangements in place:
- You may wish to ask your surrogacy agency about the safest location where all parties to the surrogacy arrangement can stay. FCDO cannot facilitate evacuation.
- In many cases, Belarusian law requires that the surrogate is married. This could affect British nationality for a child born under such a surrogacy arrangement. You should seek specialist UK legal advice about nationality determinations, Parental Orders and what you need for travel documents.
- Seek in-country legal advice. This is important for issues like legalising UK documents, notarising Belarusian documents, document processing and the maximum period of stay the authorities will allow. Due to the security challenges, FCDO cannot confirm which lawyers are currently offering services. The surrogacy process in Belarus can be lengthy and complicated.
If you are considering changing your surrogacy arrangements, or making a new arrangement in another country, read the guidance for intended parents planning for international surrogacy.
Open Government Licence v3.0gov.uk ↗updated 10.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
What it changes for you: Air acceptable at this hour: nothing special to plan.
Reading 08:00 (Europe/Minsk)Open-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026
Air quality and UV: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information 2026. Neither the European Commission nor ECMWF is responsible for any use that may be made of the Copernicus information or data it contains.
Reading: Medical density comparable to Switzerland: the local network handles most cases; repatriation remains a question of convalescence and cost. Health spending of 558 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.
World Bank — latest published value, year per indicatordata.worldbank.org ↗read 09.10.2026
What is happening in Belarus right now
Live alerts and level changes, each with its official source. Continuously updated.
What governments have just written
Health – editorial change
October 14, 2026 09:05 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 14.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026No level change recorded for this country since the log opened. The live alerts above are updated continuously.
Frequently asked questions — travel insurance Belarus
What is the official risk level in Belarus today?
Level 4/4 — Do Not Travel, U.S. Department of State, retrieved on 16 October 2026.
- Is the whole country advised against? United States: yes · France: yes · United Kingdom: yes · Switzerland: yes (reading of 27 September 2026).
- Switzerland’s FDFA advises against all travel to the country (published 25.08.2026).
- The FDFA advises against the trip: art. 18.1 (Module A) opens cancellation, change and curtailment costs.
- At this level most bank cards and standard policies exclude the trip: read My cover before booking, and only leave with cover that says so in writing.
- We check these sources every morning and e-mail you the day one changes (Alerts button).
Sourcestravel.state.gov · updated 28.12 · read 16.10France Diplomatie · updated 18.09 · read 15.10DFAE · updated 25.08 · read 15.10207-country comparison
Is the whole of Belarus advised against, or only some areas?
An area advised against does not rule out the country.
- Official answers: United States: yes · France: yes · United Kingdom: yes · Switzerland: yes.
- Keep your country of residence's advisory on booking day and on departure day: that is what your policy's clauses cite.
SourcesFrance Diplomatie · updated 18.09 · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 10.09 · read 15.10State Department · updated 28.12 · read 16.10
What are the entry requirements for Belarus with my passport?
The rules depend on the passport, not on the destination alone.
- French passport (France Diplomatie): French nationals may enter Belarus visa-free until 31 December 2026 for stays up to 30 days, but must present a passport valid for at least three months after departure. All travellers must carry medical and repatriation insurance with minimum coverage of 10,000 euros, or purchase local insurance at Minsk airport or land border. Travellers must have funds equivalent to 2 Belarusian basic units per day; since 1 January 2026, one unit equals 45 Belarusian roubles.
- British passport (Foreign Office): Your passport must be valid for at least three months from your arrival date in Belarus. British nationals can enter Belarus visa-free for up to thirty days, limited to ninety days per calendar year, until 31 December 2026. If staying longer than thirty days or exceeding ninety days per calendar year, you must obtain a visa from the Embassy of Belarus in the UK.
- American passport: the requirements are on the State Department country page (travel.state.gov).
- Swiss passport: the FDFA refers you to the destination's embassy in Switzerland.
- Pick your passport at the top of Before you go › Entry: the official text that concerns you comes first, with its “In brief” summary.
SourcesFrance Diplomatie · updated 18.09 · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 10.09 · read 15.10State Department · updated 28.12 · read 16.10
Do I need an insurance certificate for a Belarus visa?
For a Schengen visa, yes: at least €30,000 of travel medical insurance (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009, art. 15).
- Many other countries ask for it on entry or for a visa, case by case: check Before you go › Entry, with your passport.
- Subscribe: the named certificate arrives by e-mail on payment, with your name, dates and limits (EUR 1.5M medical expenses, unlimited evacuation and repatriation) — the ones consulates check.
- Attach it to the visa file; if in doubt about the format, write to us.
SourcesRegulation (EC) 810/2009, art. 15General conditions, policy 20 00 479
What does Maximum Insurance do in Belarus, concretely?
VIP Pack — €990 for twelve months, unlimited trips.
- EUR 1.5M emergency medical expenses, unlimited medical evacuation and repatriation, search and rescue EUR 50,000, cancellation or change EUR 5,000.
- One 24/7 number, +41 22 ••• •• ••: Maximum sends its direct payment guarantee to the hospital (art. 2.12).
- Network of 45,000 providers (art. 6.9); evacuation is decided, organised and paid by Maximum's medical team if the local facility is not enough (art. 6.2.2).
- Around Minsk, the nearest hospital read from OpenStreetMap: Наркалагічны дыспансер · 3.1 km · +375 17 2373701 · 24/7 emergency room.
- Named certificate by e-mail on payment, no medical questionnaire.
SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479OpenStreetMap · read 09.10
What should I do if hospitalised in Belarus?
Six steps, in this order.
- 1. Call +41 22 ••• •• •• before paying anything, or have the front desk call: it is the condition for full cover (otherwise: reduced or refused benefits).
- 2. Ask for a hospital in the Maximum network (art. 6.9) — the nearest: Наркалагічны дыспансер · 3.1 km · +375 17 2373701 · 24/7 emergency room.
- 3. See a doctor the same day and leave with the certificate: without an on-the-spot finding, nothing is covered (art. 33).
- 4. Admitted for more than 24 h? The front desk calls Maximum: direct payment guarantee, no deposit (art. 2.12).
- 5. Book no ambulance or flight yourself (art. 6.2.2).
- 6. Once home, file within 30 days (art. 35.7).
- Local emergency services: police 102 · ambulance 103 · fire 101.
SourcesSpecial conditions 01.26General conditions, policy 20 00 479
Which emergency numbers in Belarus?
Local emergency services: police 102 · ambulance 103 · fire 101
- Maximum, 24/7, before any payment: +41 22 ••• •• ••.
- France — Ambassade de France (0.9 km) · +375 17 229 18 00
- Switzerland — Ambassade de Suisse (0.9 km)
- United Kingdom — Ambassade de Grande Bretagne (0.4 km)
- United States — Ambassade des États-Unis (1.5 km) · +375 17 210-12-83
- Save these numbers before leaving; in immediate danger, call local emergency services first, then Maximum.
SourcesEmergencyNumberAPI · Wikidata · read 08.10OpenStreetMap · read 09.10
Is an Amex, Visa or Mastercard enough in Belarus?
At today's level 4/4, card by card:
- Amex Platinum — Your Amex Platinum expressly excludes this trip: the T&Cs rule out travel to countries your government has advised against visiting.
- Visa — Your Visa may not cover here: the notice excludes the consequences of war, notorious political instability and terrorism — precisely the risks of an advised-against area.
- Mastercard — Your Mastercard World Elite expressly excludes this trip: areas 'formally advised against' by the French foreign ministry are ruled out, assessed at departure date.
- Three lines to read in your notice: the duration (often 90 days per trip), the settlement (reimbursement afterwards or direct payment of the hospital) and the area exclusion at level 4/4.
SourcesAmex Platinum France T&Cs, 01.2025 — general exclusion n° 11BNP Paribas Visa Infinite notice (policy PT7), 04.2025 — comFortuneo World Elite Mastercard notice, 01.2026 — art. 5.5 '
Are a health plan or a travel policy enough in Belarus?
A health plan reimburses at home; here, the hospital asks for a payment guarantee before admission.
- Health plan — A health plan treats you at home. Here the hospital asks for a guarantee before admission — not a later reimbursement.
- Travel policy — The clause is a market standard: the reference policy excludes trips to areas 'formally advised against by government authorities' — at this level most classic policies no longer cover.
- A travel policy often has a territorial clause at level 4/4 and a 90-day limit per trip.
- Have your IPID number or the PDF of the terms and ask an expert to call you back: the answer is in the document, not in the brochure.
SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479
How do I use the medical network on this page?
Around Minsk: 80 hospitals and clinics, 6 with a 24/7 emergency room, 40 pharmacies, 25 doctors' practices (OpenStreetMap, hospital list read on 10.10.2026).
- Type your city, hotel or beach: the map re-centres, 24/7 emergency rooms come first.
- Each row gives the phone when the source publishes it, the nearest street, directions and the Google Maps listing.
- The PDF briefing repeats the same places, numbered on a printable map.
- No customer reviews: OpenStreetMap has none, and we invent none.
Which vaccines and health precautions for Belarus?
The sourced detail is under Medical network › Health: vaccines, diseases present, altitude, outbreaks.
- CDC (Travelers' Health), depending on the trip: Routine vaccines, COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Measles, Monkeypox, Rabies.
- See a doctor or a travel clinic 8 weeks before departure (Foreign Office).
- Carry your medicines in their packaging, with a prescription using international non-proprietary names (France Diplomatie).
SourcesCDC Travelers' Health · read 09.10France Diplomatie · updated 18.09 · read 15.10OMS · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 10.09 · read 15.10
Can I be treated in Belarus, or will I be evacuated?
4.7 physicians per 1,000 people (2023) versus 4.5 in Switzerland.
- 9.8 hospital beds per 1,000 people versus 4.4 in Switzerland (World Bank).
- Medical density comparable to Switzerland: the local network handles most cases; repatriation remains a question of convalescence and cost. Health spending of 558 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.
- When the local facility is not enough, Maximum's medical team decides the evacuation to a suitable centre, and pays for it (art. 6.2.2).
SourcesWorld Bank · read 09.10General conditions, policy 20 00 479
Belarus: safety, in figures?
2.4 homicides per 100,000 people (2019) versus 0.6 in Switzerland and 1.3 in France.
- 7.6 road deaths per 100,000 people versus 2.2 in Switzerland (World Bank, WHO).
- The homicide rate is 4 times Switzerland's: violence is a real risk there, concentrated in the areas named by the official advisories. On the road, 3 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.
Where is my embassy in Belarus, and why register?
The nearest representations, by passport (OpenStreetMap):
- France — Ambassade de France (0.9 km) · +375 17 229 18 00
- Switzerland — Ambassade de Suisse (0.9 km)
- United Kingdom — Ambassade de Grande Bretagne (0.4 km)
- United States — Ambassade des États-Unis (1.5 km) · +375 17 210-12-83
- Register before leaving: France: Ariane · Switzerland: Travel Admin · United Kingdom: Foreign Office alerts · United States: STEP.
- Two minutes, and in a crisis your country's authorities can reach you and count you in an evacuation.
- Pick your passport at the top of Contacts: your embassy comes first.
SourcesOpenStreetMap · read 09.10DFAE · updated 25.08 · read 15.10
Which regions of Belarus should I avoid, precisely?
At least one official reading covers the whole country; no region is singled out.
- Your point (Minsk): advised against — all travel.
- Global Affairs Canada covers the whole country.
- Foreign Office covers the whole country.
- Maximum does not exclude these areas: the VIP Pack covers care and repatriation there (sanctions, embargoes and a country already at war at departure remain enforceable).
SourcesGlobal Affairs Canada · updated 14.10 · read 16.10Foreign Office · updated 10.09 · read 15.10France Diplomatie · updated 18.09 · read 15.10
Which laws and customs should I know in Belarus?
Local laws apply to every traveller; here is what the official texts say.
- You must carry originals of your passport, visa and migration card at all times in Belarus; failure to show them may lead to arrest and detention.
- Penalties for drug possession, use or trafficking in Belarus include up to 5 years in prison for small amounts and up to 25 years for smuggling or trafficking, with heavy fines; these apply even during transit.
- Male Belarusian citizens aged 18–27 may face mandatory military service; dual Canadian-Belarusian citizens trying to avoid it risk arrest, forced conscription or travel bans.
- You must carry an international driving permit in Belarus; there is zero tolerance for drinking and driving, and headlights must be on from November 1 to March 31.
- Photography of military installations, public buildings or monuments is prohibited without prior permission from local authorities.
SourcesGlobal Affairs Canada · updated 14.10 · read 16.10Foreign Office · updated 10.09 · read 15.10
Who can I call at any hour from Belarus?
Every foreign ministry runs a 24/7 emergency line for its nationals.
- France — Crisis and Support Centre — French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs: +33 1 53 59 11 00. 24/7 emergency line, standard rate. First contact abroad: the French embassy or consulate.
- Switzerland — FDFA Helpline: +41 58 465 33 33 · +41 800 24 7 365. 24/7, 365 days a year — helpline@eda.admin.ch. Beware of scam calls spoofing these numbers.
- United Kingdom — Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office: +44 20 7008 5000. 24 hours, for British nationals.
- United States — Overseas Citizens Services — U.S. Department of State: +1 202 501 4444 · +1 888 407 4747. From abroad; the second number from the U.S. and Canada.
- On site, Ambassade de France: +375 17 229 18 00.
Sourcesdiplomatie.gouv.fr · updated 18.09 · read 15.10eda.admin.ch · updated 25.08 · read 15.10
A few useful phrases in Russian for Belarus?
Emergency phrases, to show if pronunciation fails:
- Help! → Помогите! (Pomogite!)
- Call an ambulance! → Вызовите скорую помощь! (Vyzovite skoruyu pomoshch!)
- I need a doctor. → Мне нужен врач. (Mne nuzhen vrach.)
- Where is the nearest hospital? → Где ближайшая больница? (Gde blizhayshaya bolnitsa?)
- Call the police! → Вызовите полицию! (Vyzovite politsiyu!)
SourcesMaximum Insurance
What should I keep after leaving Belarus, and how do I file a claim?
Keep the entry stamp, the invoices, the prescriptions and the medical report.
- File within 30 days (art. 35.7) from your client area, with the documents; the official forms are pre-filled.
- Costs advanced on site are reimbursed against receipts.
- Fever, persistent diarrhoea or a rash in the following weeks? See a doctor and say where you have been.
SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479
What does the Pack VIP Extreme add?
Cancellation or change up to EUR 20,000, special risk EUR 5,000 per person, crisis management and security, optional Kidnap & Ransom.
- Special risk (Module A): political event, attack, epidemic, natural disaster — opens when the FDFA, the FOPH or WHO advise against the trip (art. 18.1).
- Epidemic: assistance must be requested within 7 days of the WHO or FDFA qualification (art. 36.2).
- Crisis management and security: trip registration, monitoring, extraction, evacuation in case of riot, war, terrorism or disaster; Kidnap & Ransom subject to eligibility (art. 18.4).
- €2,290 a year, unlimited trips.
SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479
A question not answered here? Ask Maximum below, or call the support number: every question gets a clear, actionable answer.
In a life-threatening emergency, call local emergency services first, then Maximum: +41 22 ••• •• •• — 24/7 support number, an adviser stays with you to the end.
What Maximum knows
The 207 country pages — hospitals, pharmacies, police, embassies, emergency numbers, official advice from four governments, health, safety in figures, events in progress — read around the city you name. Your policy — benefits, the six steps, claims, articles. The site — prices, certificate, subscription. Nothing else: what it does not know, it says so and hands you to an adviser.
Same advisory level: Yemen · Afghanistan · Myanmar · Burkina Faso · DR Congo · North Korea
The displayed level comes from the State Department, checked every morning. Before departure, always cross-check your country of residence's advisory: that is what your policy cites.
The level shown is the official U.S. Department of State level, checked daily. Maximum Insurance is an insurance distributor — general information, not personal advice.