Refugee status and subsidiary protection status in Belarus
25.12.2023
What is refugee status and who can obtain it in Belarus?
Refugee status in Belarus is granted to individuals who have fled their country due to a threat to their life associated with racial, religious, national affiliation, belonging to a particular social group, or political beliefs. To obtain refugee status, a foreign national must personally apply to the Office of Citizenship and Migration (UGM) at the place of their temporary residence in Belarus.

The application will be considered within six months, and throughout this period, the foreign national will be required to remain in the country. The foreign national will need to undergo an interview to understand the reasons for their application, provide fingerprints, and undergo a medical examination. After obtaining the status, the foreign national can permanently reside in the Republic of Belarus and have the same rights as other foreigners who permanently live in Belarus. Rights such as acquiring housing, settling, and finding employment are exercised independently by foreigners granted refugee status.
What is additional protection status and who can obtain it in Belarus?
Additional protection status in Belarus can be granted to individuals who do not meet the strict criteria for refugee status but still need international protection. This may include individuals who have been subjected to torture, victims of violence, or persecution due to armed conflicts. The process of obtaining additional protection status also involves an analysis of individual circumstances and threats. It is granted for up to a year and can be extended for another year.
Both statuses provide protection from persecution and dangers in the country of origin, as well as equal rights with other foreigners in Belarus. A foreign national who has been granted refugee or additional protection status in Belarus has the right to voluntarily return to their country of citizenship or to leave for a third country for permanent residence.
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