Europe

Terrorism

The threat from terrorism is low. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners. For more general information see terrorism abroad.

Crime

There is little crime in Belarus. However, you should be alert at all times to the possibility of mugging, pickpocketing and theft from vehicles or hotel rooms.  You should take extra care when travelling by train, as there have been instances of theft from travellers, especially on sleeper trains to Warsaw and Moscow.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political situation

Belarus Country Profile

Belarus is governed by a strong Presidential system with security forces loyal to it. Historically the authorities have shown little tolerance for their opposition counterparts. This has often been reflected in the sometimes heavy-handed use of the security forces to disperse or intimidate opposition events. You should therefore avoid any demonstrations or rallies.

Local travel

A bomb exploded at the Independence Day celebration concert on the night of 3-4 July 2008, injuring around 50 people. An official investigation is under way.  Bombings are extremely unusual in Belarus, but you should take care at events where large number of people are gathered. Suspect packages have also been found on the underground in the weeks following the bombing. Underground stations were evacuated and the packages proved to be harmless. Nevertheless, you should exercise caution when travelling on public transport.

Road travel

British driving licence holders must possess a valid International Driver's Licence to drive legally in Belarus. When travelling by private vehicle, you must be able to produce ownership documents or a letter of 'power of attorney' at Custom's offices at border crossings. Only originals of these documents are accepted.  You must have third party car insurance or you may get an 'on-the-spot' fine.  But you can only buy this when entering Belarus. Motorists should enquire at Customs' border offices for information.

 

Drivers of foreign vehicles must pay a fee to use Belarus' highways. Payments are collected at border checkpoints and will vary according to the length of stay.

 

The quality of driving in Belarus is erratic.  Belarus' 'A-class' highways are in average to good condition. The condition of 'B-class' roads varies considerably and some are impassable for periods in winter. Drivers should note that road works and potholes are usually poorly marked. Pony and trap combinations are a specific hazard for drivers in rural unlit areas.

 

You should observe the speed limit at all times. The standard speed limit is 60 kph (37 mph) in built up areas; 90 kph (55 mph) outside built up areas; and 100 kph (62 mph) on motorways (Brest-Moscow). Visiting motorists who have held a driving licence for less than two years must not exceed 70 kph (43 mph). The authorities operate a nil-tolerance policy in respect of drink driving.

 

Motorists should be aware that there may be long queues at the border, and that customs and immigration can be lengthy and bureaucratic. You should ignore 'private facilitators' who offer to help travellers pass through checkpoints and border crossings. There are police checkpoints on routes throughout the country. Drivers should stop at these when instructed, and have the vehicle documentation to hand, otherwise you risk a fine and delay.

 

Motorists entering Belarus should ensure that they do not overstay the temporary import terms for their vehicles. Violation of the exit deadline may result in confiscation of your vehicle at the Belarusian border or if stopped at an in-country police checkpoint.

 

For more general information see driving abroad.

Air travel

Some local airlines do not observe proper maintenance procedures. For your safety, where possible, you should fly directly to your destination on an international flight originating outside the former Soviet Union and Central Asia.

For more general information see airline security.