Tourists can continue to travel to Belarus without obtaining a visa.
Get the lowdown on Albania and Belarus, two countries with a unique travel story. Here's the scoop!
Albania has kept its door open to Belarusians, keeping the visa-free regime in place... sorta. Though the bilateral agreement has been temporarily suspended, Belarusians are yet to feel the burn in their travel plans. As we speak, Belarusians are free to enter Albania without a visa, but there's a catch - stays are limited to 30 days, only until September 30, 2025.
But before you pack your bags and embark on an adventurous journey, remember that things weren't always this peachy. Back in the day, Belarusians enjoyed stays of up to 30 days from the date of entry and up to 90 days within a year. Those were the days!
Oh, the plot thickens! In late April, the Council of Ministers of Albania took a controversial step and approved the suspension of the agreement with the government of Belarus on the mutual abolition of visa requirements. So, what gives?
Well, fret not, brave Belarusians! It seems the powers that be have seen the errors of their ways and reinstated the visa-free entry for Belarusians until September 30, 2025. Sounds like a holiday to remember!
Now, here's the fine print. If you're a Belarusian planning a trip to Albania, bare in mind that you'll need to jump through a few hoops to get an e-visa. You'll need a passport valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay, a passport-size photo, a round-trip flight reservation, proof of accommodation, travel health insurance, and proof of financial means. And, of course, there's a fee. The online application process can take up to 15 business days, so plan ahead!
It's worth noting that there might be exceptions to the rule. Belarusian citizens who already hold valid visas for the Schengen Area, the US, or the UK may be exempt from needing an Albanian visa. Sweet!
Lastly, keep your eyes peeled for any changes in the future. The current visa-free entry is only a temporary measure, subject to the whims of the Albanian government. So, enjoy the ride while it lasts!
Sources:
- Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (website)
- Svetlov, M. (Journalist) (May 5, 2025). Retrieved from e-visa.al
- Council of Ministers of Albania (April 24, 2025) (Suspension of the agreement with the government of Belarus on the mutual abolition of visa requirements)
- Despite the temporary suspension of the visa-free agreement between Albania and Belarus, Belarusians can currently travel to Albania without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, as approved by the Council of Ministers of Albania.
- For Belarusians planning to visit Albania, it's important to note that an e-visa is necessary, along with a passport valid for at least three months beyond the planned stay, a passport-size photo, a round-trip flight reservation, proof of accommodation, travel health insurance, and proof of financial means.
