Germany’s Federal Foreign Office has confirmed that its official travel warning for Belarus remains in effect. The document, updated on April 25, 2026, warns German citizens of risks of arbitrary detention, criminal prosecution and restrictions on leaving the country.
The ministry highlights the threat of arbitrary detention and prosecution, noting that arrests can occur at any time on fabricated grounds and may be used as a tool of political pressure. Serious charges, including “sabotage against the state” or “terrorism”, can carry the death penalty.
Criminal provisions are intentionally formulated in a “vague” manner and may apply to everyday behaviour that is not considered criminal in Germany. Personal correspondence, photographs, messages in messaging apps and diary entries may be used against their owners. The Foreign Office also warns that websites and social media profiles may be arbitrarily designated as “extremist”.
It stresses that any display of symbols and distribution of materials related to LGBTQ+ topics is prohibited, with violators facing fines, administrative detention and expulsion from the country.
Photographing military sites and locations of strategic importance is prohibited. Alcohol consumption while driving and in public places is banned. Even minimal quantities of narcotic substances when entering the country can result in long prison sentences.
A number of border crossings with Poland, Lithuania and Latvia remain closed. The use of non-European bank cards is limited, and the export of euro cash to Belarus is prohibited under EU legislation.
The Foreign Office recommends vaccination against hepatitis A and tick-borne encephalitis, as Belarus is considered a risk area for the latter from April to October. Cases of rabies and tuberculosis, including drug-resistant forms, have also been recorded. According to the German Foreign Office, medical care outside major cities “often does not meet Western European standards”.
