In Belarus, a short-term rental refers to a residential property that is rented out to guests for short durations, typically ranging from few days to several months, to accommodate travelers, business visitors, or tourists. This can include apartments, houses, or rooms that are listed for nightly or weekly stays. In Belarusian, short-term rental is commonly referred to as "кароткатэрміновая арэнда" (pronounced karotkatermínovaya arénda). This term is used to describe properties rented on a temporary basis, often through platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and local booking websites.

In Belarus, tenants are generally prohibited from subletting their rented apartments, including for short-term rentals, unless they obtain explicit permission from their landlord. This restriction is typically outlined in the lease agreement, and violating it can lead to legal consequences, including eviction.

In Belarus, there is no nationwide regulation specifying a maximum length of stay for short-term rentals. The duration of such rentals is typically determined by agreements between hosts and guests, and can range from a few days to several months. However, local regulations may vary, and it's advisable to consult municipal authorities for specific guidelines in different cities.

The maximum length of stay is generally not dependent on the type of property or the number of guests accommodated. Instead, it is influenced by local zoning laws, housing regulations, and the terms set by individual property owners or rental platforms. For instance, platforms like Flatio offer rentals in Belarus without a deposit, catering to various lengths of stay, including short-term and mid-term options.

The process for obtaining a permit for short-term rentals in Belarus, or "karotkatermínovaya arénda," involves a series of regulatory steps overseen by local authorities. Here is a general outline of the requirements and documents needed for compliance:

1. Property Registration

• Register with Local Authorities: The property intended for short-term rental must be registered with the local office of the Citizenship and Migration Department (CMD).
• Required Documents:
  • Valid identification or passport of the property owner.
  • Proof of property ownership or a lease agreement for long-term rentals.
  • Completed registration application form provided by the CMD.

2. Permit Application and Associated Fees

• Application Fee: A state fee is typically required for the processing of the short-term rental permit application. The exact fee can vary, so it’s advised to check with the local CMD for up-to-date information.
• Zoning Compliance: In some cases, additional documentation may be needed to confirm that the property is in a permitted zone for short-term rentals.
• Safety and Health Compliance: Documents proving that the property meets safety and health regulations (such as fire safety certificates) might be requested.

3. Tax Declaration

• Tax Obligations: Income from short-term rentals must be declared to the local tax authorities. Tax rates vary depending on location and property type.
• Tax Registration: Property owners may need to register for tax reporting related to rental income.

4. Guest Registration (For Foreign Guests)

• Mandatory Guest Registration: Foreign guests staying longer than five days must be registered with the local CMD by the property owner.
• Procedure: Registration can be completed online through the Unified Portal for Electronic Services or in person at the CMD office.

In Belarus, there isn't a specific national association dedicated exclusively to short-term rental homeowners. However, the Association for Short-Term Rental Homeowners (ASTRHO) is an international, not-for-profit professional network that supports short-term and vacation rental homeowners globally

Services and Support Provided by ASTRHO:

• Educational Resources: Access to courses and materials on effective property management, marketing strategies, and legal compliance.
• Community Engagement: Opportunities to connect with fellow homeowners to share experiences and best practices.
• Member Benefits: Exclusive perks, discounts, and tools designed to enhance the profitability and efficiency of rental operations.

Membership Requirements for Non-Resident Owners:

ASTRHO welcomes all short-term rental homeowners, regardless of their country of residence. There are no specific membership requirements for non-resident owners. Interested individuals can join the community for free and access the resources and support offered.