On September 24, a protocol amending the Agreement on Ensuring Equal Rights of Citizens of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus to Freedom of Movement, Choice of Place of Stay and Residence in the Territories of the States Participating in the Union State was signed in St. Petersburg.
The document was signed by First Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation – Head of the Migration Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, Police Colonel General Andrey Kikot, and First Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Belarus – Head of Public Security Police Yuri Nazarenko.
Main changes
According to the signed protocol, after the amendments enter into force, citizens of Russia and Belarus will have the right to stay in the territory of the neighboring state without taking into account the 90-day stay period established by national legislation.
At the same time, if a citizen plans to stay in the country of the Union State for more than 90 days, the obligation to register with the internal affairs bodies remains.
In addition, the procedure for issuing a residence permit is simplified. Now citizens of the Union State will be able to obtain such a document no later than 2 months from the date of application (currently this period is up to 3 months).
The lists of documents required for entry, exit and stay of citizens of one state in the territory of the other have also been clarified.
We expect ratification of this protocol in the near future, after which the changes will enter into force.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Have Russia and Belarus abolished the 90-day stay limit?
On September 24, 2026, a protocol abolishing the 90-day stay limit for citizens of the Union State was signed in St. Petersburg, however, it has not yet been ratified, follow the information.
2. Is it now possible to stay in the neighboring country without a time limit?
After ratification of the agreement, citizens of Russia and Belarus will be able to stay in the territory of the other country without a time limit.
3. When is registration required?
For now, the rules remain the same. After ratification of the agreement, if a stay of more than 90 days is planned, it is necessary to register with the authorized bodies.
4. Has the period for issuing a residence permit changed?
After ratification of the agreement, the period will be reduced from three months to two months from the date of application.
5. Do Belarusians need a quota for a temporary residence permit in Russia?
No. The quota procedure for obtaining a temporary residence permit in Russia does not apply to citizens of Belarus.
6. When will the protocol enter into force?
After ratification - from the date of exchange of ratification instruments.
7. How are the 90 days for stay counted?
Previously, the rule of 90 days during a calendar year applied to citizens of the Union State. After the changes enter into force, this limit is abolished, but if staying for more than 90 consecutive days, the obligation to register remains.
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