Significant Amendments to Immigration and Labor Laws
February 11, 2020
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At a Glance
- Significant amendments to Belarus' immigration laws will take effect July 1, 2020, including changes to temporary stay registration deadlines; broader eligibility for obtaining permanent residence permits; amendment to periods of absence rules affecting permanent residence; and entry and exit bans.
- Additionally, following numerous labor code amendments, local and foreign employees now have more possibilities to work off the premises of the sponsoring employer.
The situation
The Belarussian government made significant amendments to immigration laws, which will enter into force on July 1, 2020. Additionally, numerous changes were made to the labor code, effective January 28, 2020, which mostly affect local workers.
A closer look
The below key change to the labor code is currently in effect:
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The below changes will take effect July 1, 2020:
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Background
Overall, these changes seek to modernize and liberalize immigration and labor laws, while at the same time increasing protection of national security and citizens’ rights.
Looking ahead
Immigration in Belarus is relatively stable, with changes mostly focused on mutual visa waivers and smaller process facilitations like online registration of temporary stay and a new worksite inspection process, authorizing immigration officials to inspect personnel files. Changes are typically carefully developed in practice and allow employers and foreign nationals to adjust to new policies.
Following the completion of parliamentary elections in November 2019, the new government is expected to continue reviewing measures to boost Belarus’ economic growth by increasing its attractiveness for tourism, business and foreign investment. Fragomen will report on relevant developments.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
