Belarus

The law establishes the following grounds for acquisition of citizenship: by birth (ius sanguinis and ius soli); through Admission; by Registration; and on other grounds provided by international treaties.

With regards to Belarus the concepts of “dual nationality” and “two nationalities” can be distinguished from each other. The dual nationality concept means that both states recognise both nationalities. The concept of two nationalities takes place when a person actually has two or more nationalities, but each of the states recognizes only its own.

Citizens over 18 years do not have the right to dual citizenship. Only minors under 18, residing temporarily or permanently within the territory of Belarus, who have both or either parents as nationals of other states, are entitled to dual citizenship. Upon reaching the age of 18 such individuals must decide on the citizenship of which country they wish to adopt. If such person decides to retain Belarusian citizenship, he/she must renounce the citizenship of any other countries.

A person who is a citizen of the Republic of Belarus is not recognized as belonging to any foreign state, unless otherwise provided by international treaties. The existence of a second citizenship is not punishable and does not contradict Belarusian laws. This means that upon acquiring a citizenship of another state, a Belarusian citizen would have two citizenships if the said state did not require the person to apply to the competent authorities of Belarus with a request to withdraw from the Belarusian citizenship. However, Belarusian authorities will recognize such a person only as a citizen of the Republic of Belarus.

Temporary or permanent residence of a citizen of the Republic of Belarus in a foreign state or a foreign citizenship, do not automatically result in termination of Belarusian citizenship. However, Belarusian citizenship may be revoked in certain cases (e.g. military service in a foreign state). Belarusian citizens holding other citizenships may not on these grounds be restricted in their rights, evade their duties or be exempt from liability arising from the citizenship of the Republic of Belarus.