Russia ratifies agreement on mutual visa recognition

January 27, BPN. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed into law the mutual visa recognition agreement with Belarus which has been published on Russia’s official legal information website.

Under the accord, people entitled to visa-free entry to one of the countries under the international agreements will not be required to obtain a visa for the other country.

Each state will recognize visas and other entry permits issued by the other state, as well as passport stamps at the external border of the Union State of Russia and Belarus, the law says.

It also provides for a system to interchange data on issued and canceled entry and stay permits, as well as on those passing the Russian and Belarusian border checkpoints, which will allow controlling travel flows from both countries.

The mutual visa recognition will also apply to people holding various types of residence permits or invitations to attend international sports events in Russia or Belarus.

Belarus ratified the agreement in 2020.

It will enter into force 30 days after the final written notification that the parties have completed all necessary domestic procedures.