Belarus Eases 'Parasite Tax' Rules for Some Working Abroad, Others Must Pay
Belarus has introduced a differentiated approach for its citizens working abroad to avoid being classified as “social parasites” (“tuneyadets”), a status that leads to paying full utility tariffs, the country’s Ministry of Labour and Social Protection has clarified.
While official employment abroad does not automatically exempt Belarusians from the database of those «not engaged in the economy», the required procedure now varies depending on the country of work, Sergei Katsko, head of a department at the ministry, explained in a televised interview.
To be excluded from the list, individuals must proactively apply to a commission at their local executive committee, submitting documents proving their employment.
For those working in other Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member states—Russia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan—providing an employment contract and a certificate from their current employer is sufficient. No additional social security contributions will be required.
In contrast, citizens working in European Union countries or other states outside the EAEU must register with the Social Protection Fund and pay mandatory insurance contributions to avoid the «parasite» label.
Katsko emphasized that employment information must be updated at least once a year, which can be done by email without a personal visit to the commission.
Individuals included in the database lose access to state subsidies and are required to pay housing and utility bills at 100% of the standard rate.
Previously, it was reported that full-time students at educational institutions in Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, or Russia could also be excluded from the list by providing a certificate from their educational institution.