Belarus: Power of Attorney-Related Changes

The Belarusian authorities have issued several restrictions for the use of powers of attorney. Firstly, representatives of Belarusian citizens seeking a duplicate of a marriage certificate, birth certificate or education document now must have their power of attorney issued in Belarus (previously, the power of attorney could be issued anywhere). Next, a power of attorney is now required for representatives of Belarusian citizens seeking to apostille or legalize an official document originating in Belarus (previously, a power of attorney was not required).  Lastly, Belarussian consular posts can no longer certify powers of attorney (except for powers of attorney from the employees of such consular posts and their family members), issue, exchange or renew passports or identification documents – these processes must now be undertaken in Belarus. Consular posts can still issue visas – the changes do not affect visa issuing rules.