This project aims at giving Belarusians abroad a recognized passport to protect their identity and freedom. With an objective to replace unavailable official documents, it could ensure they’re able to travel, work, and stay connected to their homeland.
THE PROJECT NEEDS SUPPORT
Our achievements:
- Developed a national passport of Belarus in compliance with ICAO standards
- Created a secure digital platform for the registration system and citizen database
- Produced the first samples of biometric passports for dispatch to countries worldwide
- Opened the first office in Lithuania to serve our citizens
Our plans:
- Acquire the necessary equipment (engraver, computers, devices for collecting biometric data)
- Open offices in Warsaw and Kyiv
- Provide salaries for our staff
- Cover the costs of passport blank production
- Begin accepting the first citizens in January 2025
How you can help:
- Financial support: Any donation, regardless of amount, brings us closer to realizing the project
- Informational support: Spread the word about our project among friends, family, and on social media
How the funds will be spent:
- Salaries for passport center staff
- ICAO PKD registration
- Purchase of equipment
- Cybersecurity
Preliminary application
❗️Please note, we will start accepting biometric data for passports after the audit on data collection and storage is completed (according to our calculations, it should be completed in March).
If you want to be one of the first, you can apply for a preliminary application now. You will need to pay a fee for the application (7 euros) and go through an online identity and document verification. For verification, you will need a Belarusian passport and a document that allows you to legally stay in the EU (except for a tourist visa).
After we pass your audit and receive all permits, you will be able to sign up for in-person biometrics submission in Lithuania and receive your passport.
NEW BELARUSIAN PASSPORT
The New Belarusian Passport, serves as an identity document confirming Belarusian citizenship and, potentially, a travel document.
This project was launched in response to the needs of Belarusians facing restrictions and transnational repression by the Lukashenka regime, as well as difficulties in obtaining documents, legalizing their status, and traveling.
01
ISSUANCE
The passport will be issued through a network of passport centers
02
SECURITY
Strict compliance with EU data protection laws will ensure the safety of personal data
03
FUTURE PLANS
Following the fall of the Lukashenka regime, the passport will be available to all citizens of Belarus
The passport design was developed by the Heraldic Council and incorporates national symbols, colors, and images of Belarus’ most significant architectural landmarks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the New Belarusian Passport project started?
The project aims to strengthen the democratic Belarusian community and address the legal and logistical challenges faced by Belarusians abroad. Many Belarusians struggle with renewing documents or face risks when traveling back to Belarus under the Lukashenka regime. The passport also holds symbolic significance, fostering a sense of belonging to the democratic part of Belarusian society.
What challenges has the project faced?
This is a unique initiative for issuing a travel document without the involvement of the official state institutions. It requires navigating political, technical, and organizational challenges. Extensive consultations were held with representatives from the European Commission, national governments, and the ICAO Travel Document Committee.
What is its symbolic significance?
The New Belarusian Passport aims to reinforce Belarusian national identity and foster a democratic community. For those who reject association with the illegitimate regime, this passport symbolizes belonging to the democratic segment of Belarusian society. It also highlights the distinction between the regime and the people of Belarus to the international community.
Can this passport be used for travel?
Its status and use as a travel document will depend on negotiations with individual countries. Passport samples have already been sent to EU member states and other nations where Belarusians reside.
Who is eligible to receive the passport?
Initially, the passport will be issued by Belarus Passport Center to Belarusians abroad who hold a valid or expired Belarusian passport and have a residence permit from local authorities. We do not recommend that individuals residing in Belarus apply, as the Lukashenka regime may label the passport “extremist,” with potential legal consequences.
What is the design of the passport?
It is a biometric, machine-readable document that meets ICAO standards. It features a polycarbonate data page, a passport chip embedded in the cover, and a design incorporating national symbols and important Belarusian landmarks.
How can one apply for the passport?
Applications will be processed at the Belarus Passport Center in Lithuania, with plans to introduce mobile documentation centers to other countries. Data collection involves standard documentation procedures (form filling, photography, biometric data collection). Passports can be picked up in person or delivered via mail. The passport will be issued for a fee.
How will personal data be protected?
All passport data will be secured under EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) standards and additional internal security protocols.
Will it grant additional privileges?
Currently, the New Belarusian Passport does not provide extra privileges and does not exempt holders from obtaining visas or residence permits. Potentially, passport may be used as a travel document.
What are the benefits for the holder?
The primary advantage is independence from the Lukashenka regime. In the future, this passport will eliminate issues related to document expiration, page exhaustion, or loss of the standard Belarusian passport.