While the unrest in the wake of President Lukashenko's recent election victory may have done little to enhance tourism to Minsk, some tourists are drawn to the little-known country and a Belarus visa is mandatory packing for those who want to sample the delights of the country known as White Russia. Here is a quick guide through the formalities.

Belarus Visa Types – Transit, Tourist, Private, Business, Humanitarian

There are various types of visa, depending on the purpose of your visit and, with the tourist visa being the most common. With the exception of the transit visa, an invitation is required.

Private visa These are issued by the Ministry of the Interior, following an application from a Belarus citizen, but the process is bureaucratic and not advised.