European Country Introduces New Minimum Salary for Work Permits and Family Visas

Foreign workers in Belarus will now face updated income requirements if they plan to bring family members or apply for work permits, according to new regulations that took effect on November 1, 2025.

New Income Thresholds for Family Sponsorship

The government has slightly increased the minimum household income required for sponsoring dependents:

• For a spouse: Minimum income must now be BYN 2,624.97 per month, up from BYN 2,623.92.
• For children: Applicants must earn between BYN 305.86 and BYN 479.59 per child each month, depending on age. These thresholds were previously BYN 301.50–476.97.

Authorities have clarified that these figures are reviewed quarterly, so applicants are advised to check the latest requirements before submitting their sponsorship documents.

Higher Salary Requirements for Work Permits

Belarus has also raised the minimum salary threshold for foreign work permit holders.

• To qualify for a Special Work Permit or Temporary Residence Permit, a worker must now earn at least BYN 3,630 per month, up from BYN 3,130.
• This new figure represents five times the current national minimum wage of BYN 726.
• Other foreign employees must earn at least BYN 2,100 per month, compared to the previous BYN 2,000.

Payroll, Taxes, and Employer Obligations

Foreign employees in Belarus must be formally employed on the local payroll, with salaries paid in Belarusian rubles (BYN). Employers may, however, link salaries to a foreign currency based on bank exchange rates.

Key deductions and contributions include:

• 34% employer contribution to social security insurance
• 6% employer contribution for accident insurance
• 1% employee contribution to social security
• 13% withheld as personal income tax

Some workers may qualify for tax deductions, depending on their individual circumstances.

Impact on New and Pending Applications

The new financial thresholds apply to both pending and new work or residence permit applications. Authorities have advised employers and foreign workers to review the updated requirements carefully to avoid delays caused by incomplete or insufficient income documentation.

The policy changes reflect Belarus’s effort to ensure fair pay standards and financial stability among foreign residents. Those planning to work or relocate with their families should reassess their income eligibility and verify the latest figures before applying.