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New Visa-Free Travel Rules
If you are a student in Belarus planning to visit Russia, there are new travel regulations you need to be aware of. The visa-free agreement between Belarus and Russia allows individuals holding a Belarusian visa to enter Russia without the need for a separate Russian visa. However, there are specific rules and restrictions that must be followed.

Entry and Exit Requirements
Visiting Russia
• Students traveling for a visit do not need an exit visa to leave Russia.
• Entry into Russia is currently only permitted through two designated border checkpoints:
• Selische-Novozybkov (M-13)
• Red’ki-Krasnaya Gorka (M-1)
• Travel is allowed via bus, personal vehicle, marshrutka, or plane.
• Train travel is not permitted under this agreement.
• If you are flying to Russia, you must obtain an exit visa before departure.
• The maximum stay allowed in Russia is 90 days per year, and this limit cannot be exceeded.
Flying Home via Russia
For students planning to return home after traveling to Moscow:
• An exit visa from the Dean’s Office is required before departing Belarus. This visa will be necessary when re-entering Russia for your flight.
• The 90-day stay limit per year applies even if you are transiting through Russia. Ensure you return to Belarus within this timeframe to avoid any complications.
Important Considerations
Since the visa-free agreement is relatively new, some airport authorities may not be fully aware of the regulations. To prevent travel disruptions:
• Inform your local airport authorities about the new rule in advance.
• Consider booking a flight with a transit in Russia rather than a direct departure, as this may help you avoid potential issues with airport officials.
University Recommendations
Before traveling to Russia, students are strongly advised to inform the university’s immigration department. The department can provide a sprafka (reference letter) confirming your student status at VSMU. This document can be useful if questioned by Russian authorities and help prevent unnecessary delays or complications.


Author
Imadh Carim
General Secretary – SLMSU 2024/2025

