Visa-free movement between Belarus and Israel came into effect

An agreement on visa-free movement between Belarus and Israel has come into effect on November 26. Now it applies only to tourists and visitors who intend to stay in the country for up to 3 months.

The intergovernmental agreement between Belarus and Israel on the abolition of visas was signed in Minsk on September 19, 2014, Belsat recalls. In accordance with it, the citizens of Belarus and Israel may enter the territory of the other state on the basis of a national passport, but the term of stay should not exceed 90 days within six months starting from the date of the first entry.

If a citizen of either country is going to spend more than 90 days in to the territory of the other state, or will be engaged in working or commercial activity, they will have to apply for an appropriate visa in advance.

The agreement will be valid within a year. Once this period expires, it will be automatically extended until any party show its willingness to annul it.

Despite the abolition of tourist visas, Belarusan MFA still recommends Belarusian travelers to Israel to have visitor-supporting documents.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends citizens of Belarus to clearly explain [at border crossing points – EuroBelarus] the nature of their trip (tourist, visitor, business) and specify the dates of their stay in Israel. It should be borne in mind that representatives of the border service may ask for the documentary evidence of the provided information,” noted spokesman for the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dzmitry Mironchyk in comment to BelTA.

In order to avoid problems the visitors are advised to carry return tickets with a fixed date, an insurance document, funds in sufficient amounts, it may be cash, traveler's cheques or bank cards. "If a citizen makes a trip for tourism purposes, he may be required the confirmation of hotel reservation, a tourist services contract. If the purpose of the travel is business or visitor, travelers must have the appropriate invitation letter, a photocopy of the passport or identity card of the inviting party, contact telephone number,” said the spokesperson, stressing that based on the experience of other states that have similar agreements with Israel, the availability of these documents will contribute to the smooth entry.