What Lies Ahead For Belarusians Starting August 1

Complete list of changes.

In August, social benefits—including pensions—will increase in Belarus; the application period for most college applicants will end; and bank fees will be adjusted, according to myfin.by.

The Minimum Living Standard Will Increase

Every three months, Belarus recalculates the minimum living standard. The next indexation of this indicator is scheduled for August 1.

At the time of writing, there is no information on how much the subsistence minimum will increase. Its current value, effective as of May 1, is 509.62 rubles.

Benefits and pensions will increase

The increase in the subsistence minimum will lead to an increase in a number of social payments tied to its value.

Certain child benefits will increase, as will minimum labor pensions, pension supplements, social pensions, and disability care benefits.

Digital Visas for Tourists in Egypt

Starting August 1, Belarusian tourists traveling to Egypt may encounter yet another new requirement. The country is launching a digital tourist visa system—initially, this will apply only to Cairo Airport, and later to other airports as well.

Instead of paper visa stickers in their passports, travelers will receive a QR code, which they will need to present at passport control. Digital visas can be obtained through the website, a mobile app, or self-service kiosks at airports, and payment must be made via non-cash methods.

Deadline for Submitting Applications to Universities

At the beginning of the month, universities in Belarus will close the application period for applicants seeking admission to full-time, fee-based programs (without entrance exams).

For most majors, the deadline is August 1, and for agricultural majors, it is August 2. Enrollment is scheduled for August 3.
Will there be any changes from the National Bank?

Before August begins, the National Bank of Belarus will publish the standard risk calculation values (SRCV) for the last month of summer.

There is currently no information about updates. The SRR directly affects interest rates on ruble-denominated loans and deposits.

The “hot water cuts” period will continue

In August, the capital’s utility companies will continue to inspect the condition of heating networks, which is why hot water will be shut off in Minsk residents’ apartments for an average of up to 13 days.

The dates and addresses of buildings in Minsk where outages are scheduled can be found here.

August banking changes

In August, many Belarusian banks will begin charging a 15% fee on the amount of Russian rubles accepted in cash at teller windows to replenish existing accounts held by non-resident individuals.

For example, Belarusbank will apply this fee starting August 20 (for accounts opened before July 17), Belagroprombank—starting August 17 (for accounts opened before July 16), and Sber Bank—starting August 15 (for accounts opened before July 14).

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