Belarus visa changes

[mendeleyev]

December 2011
From the BY Legal Portal (where Belarus officially announces new legislation)

Legal provisions concerning exit from and entry into Belarus changed
The Law of the Republic of Belarus of 25 November 2011 No 322-Z has amended some laws of the Republic of Belarus on issues concerning the exit from and entry into the Republic of Belarus.

Amendments made establish, in particular, that the right to exit from the Republic of Belarus may be restricted temporarily for persons (both citizens of the Republic of Belarus and foreign nationals permanently residing in Belarus) being suspected or accused of committing crimes, under the procedure established for investigation of crimes.

The law also changed the procedure for the exit from Belarus of organized groups of children going for medical treatment or rehabilitation abroad. The Law enters into force in six months from the day of its official publication.

Note: The section on "suspected or accused of committing crimes" is broad and in Belarus likely going to be used against foreign journalists as well. Perhaps also for foreign citizens who officials believe are politically active against the regime.

[ecr844]

Unless you're actively associating, and involved with the political movement and the players here, are involved with criminals,have a severe case of bad luck and or lack common sense this will not be a problem for most folks who come here.