Alexander Lukashenko Invites Ukrainians: A Chance for a New Life in Belarus

Alexander Lukashenko openly encouraged Ukrainians to move to Belarus, stating that the country is ready to welcome them "as one of its own" and provide their families with access to education and healthcare on par with Belarusian citizens. He emphasized that Ukrainians are hardworking people who speak a similar language, and their arrival is seen as a real boost to the economy. According to official data, more than 320,000 Ukrainians have arrived in Belarus since February 2022, and approximately 158,700 displaced persons have been registered in the country to date.

How to get settled and live: legalization, work, and social support

Lukashenko stated that those who relocate will be given equal access to education for children and healthcare. He also spoke about employment for displaced persons: "many are already working," especially in border regions such as the Gomel region.

How much housing actually costs and whether Belarus covers the costs—no specific programs for mass financial assistance for rent have yet been announced in the media. Nevertheless, for many, relocation could be an opportunity to reduce expenses: housing in the rural agricultural towns mentioned by Lukashenko is often cheaper than in large cities, and the state could support displaced persons there.

Citizenship Prospects: Opportunities and Realities

Lukashenko said that a "paradise" awaits resettlers in terms of social rights—a statement that brings hope to many. However, legally, Belarusian citizenship is not granted automatically to Ukrainians: they require residence, legalization, and possibly a residence permit, and only then can citizenship be achieved. According to analysts, the time required to obtain a permanent residence permit or citizenship can be significant—and there are no direct "fast-track" programs yet in official sources. This means that relocation is a long-term solution, not a quick path to a Belarusian passport.

Real Stories of Relocation: Hope for a Normal Life

In interviews and speeches, Lukashenko himself says that there are already Ukrainians employed in Belarus, especially in border regions, and they contribute to the country's economy. For many, this truly is a chance to start anew in a stable country with access to healthcare and education. Of course, there are challenges: moving is fraught with bureaucracy, the need to legalize, and find housing and employment. But the very fact of the invitation and the promise is a crucial starting point for many Ukrainians and a chance to build a new life in a place where they are seen as an asset, not a burden.