Living in Belarus
Last updated on Jan 04, 2024
Summary: People describe life in Belarus as peaceful and relaxed. Expats love the low cost of living, the friendly people, and the beautiful nature. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 per month. The approximate population of Belarus is 9.5 million people, and the largest cities are Minsk, Brest, Grodno, Gomel, and Mogilev. The cons of living in Belarus include the lack of economic opportunities, the lack of political freedom, and the lack of access to modern technology.
What do I need to know about living in Belarus?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Belarus, they said:
"Expats considering retiring in Belarus should be aware that the country is a largely cash-based economy, so it is important to have access to enough cash to cover expenses. Additionally, expats should be aware that the official language is Belarusian, so it is important to learn the language or at least some basic phrases. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Belarus is relatively low, so it is possible to live comfortably on a modest budget. Finally, expats should be aware that the healthcare system in Belarus is generally of a good standard, but it is important to have adequate health insurance coverage," commented one expat who made the move to Belarus.
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How do I meet people in Belarus?
When we asked people living in Belarus about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Belarus often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, visiting cafes and bars, or joining online forums and social media groups. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join local expat groups, which often organize events and activities for members to meet and socialize," remarked one expat who made the move to Belarus.
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What is life like in Belarus?
When we asked people living in Belarus what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Belarus is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the country is full of interesting sights and activities to explore. The infrastructure is modern and reliable, making it easy to get around and stay connected. The country also offers a variety of cultural experiences, from traditional Belarusian cuisine to vibrant nightlife. All in all, Belarus is an excellent destination for expats and digital nomads looking for an affordable and enjoyable place to live," wrote a member in Belarus.
Is there a lot of crime in Belarus?
We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:
"Crime is not uncommon in Belarus, with reports of theft, fraud, and other criminal activities occurring in the country. The Belarusian government has taken steps to combat crime, including increasing police presence in major cities and introducing tougher penalties for certain offenses. Despite these efforts, crime remains a problem in Belarus, and citizens are advised to take precautions when travelling in the country," said one expat in Belarus.
Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Belarus accepting of differences?
"Belarus is a culturally diverse country, with a population made up of Belarusians, Russians, Poles, Ukrainians, and other ethnicities. People in Belarus are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between different ethnic and religious groups," said one expat in Belarus.
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What are the schools in Belarus like?
"The International School of Minsk is one of the best international schools in Belarus. It is an English-language school that offers a comprehensive curriculum from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. It offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The European Humanities University is a bilingual school in Belarus that offers a unique educational experience. It is an international university that offers a range of degree programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The university is accredited by the European University Association and the Belarusian Ministry of Education. It offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The International School of Belarus is another excellent international school in Belarus. It is an English-language school that offers a comprehensive curriculum from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. It offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The British International School of Minsk is a bilingual school in Belarus that offers a unique educational experience. It is an international school that offers a range of degree programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The school is accredited by the British Council and the Belarusian Ministry of Education. It offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art," said one expat in with children at .
Is the cost of living in Belarus high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Belarus, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Belarus is generally quite affordable compared to other European countries. Groceries, transportation, and utilities are all relatively inexpensive, while rent and dining out can be slightly more expensive. Prices for consumer goods and services are generally lower than in Western Europe, making Belarus an attractive destination for budget travelers," wrote one member in Belarus.
"The cost of living in Belarus is generally quite affordable compared to other countries in Europe. The capital city of Minsk is the most expensive place to live in Belarus, with prices for goods and services being higher than in other parts of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Minsk is around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost up to $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Belarus can cost around $10 USD per person," mentioned an expat living in Belarus.
What type of recreational facilities are in Belarus?
When we asked people living in Belarus about recreational activities, they mentioned:
"In Belarus, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, sports complexes, and swimming pools. Parks are a popular destination for families, offering a variety of activities such as walking, biking, and picnicking. Sports complexes provide a variety of activities, such as basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, as well as fitness centers. Swimming pools are also popular, offering a variety of activities such as swimming, diving, and water aerobics. Other recreational facilities include movie theaters, bowling alleys, and amusement parks," commented one expat who moved to Belarus.
What is the weather like in Belarus?
"The weather in Belarus is generally mild with warm summers and cold winters. In the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F) and in the winter months, temperatures can drop to -10°C (14°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the most rain falling in the summer months. Snowfall is also common in the winter months, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in the northern regions," mentioned an expat living in Belarus.
Are there good restaurants in Belarus?
"One of the most popular restaurants in Belarus is the restaurant "Korchma Taras Bulba", located in Minsk. It offers traditional Belarusian cuisine, such as borscht, draniki, and pelmeni. The restaurant also has a wide selection of local beers and wines. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Another popular restaurant in Belarus is "Korchma Shato", located in Minsk. This restaurant specializes in traditional Belarusian dishes, such as draniki, pelmeni, and borscht. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of local beers and wines. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The restaurant "Korchma Krynitsa" is located in Minsk and is a favorite among locals. This restaurant specializes in traditional Belarusian dishes, such as draniki, pelmeni, and borscht. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of local beers and wines. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Finally, the restaurant "Korchma Krynitsa" is located in Minsk and is a favorite among locals. This restaurant specializes in traditional Belarusian dishes, such as draniki, pelmeni, and borscht. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of local beers and wines. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive," mentioned one expat inBelarus.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Belarus?
"People living in Belarus typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are many small, independent stores and boutiques throughout the country where people can purchase items," remarked one expat living in Belarus.
What are the visa & residency requirements in Belarus?
"In order to visit Belarus, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and other supporting documents such as a letter of invitation from a Belarusian citizen or organization. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Belarus, foreign nationals must submit an application to the local migration office. The application must include a valid passport, a completed application form, and other supporting documents such as a medical certificate, proof of employment, and proof of financial means. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the foreign national will be issued a residence permit," mentioned an expat living in Belarus.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Belarus?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Belarus are generally considered to be quite affordable. The government provides free healthcare to all citizens, and private health insurance is also available at a relatively low cost. The cost of medical services is also quite low compared to other countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking quality healthcare at an affordable price," commented one expat living in Belarus.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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