New U.S. Bill: Support for Belarusians and Russians

Bridge Act: Recognition of expired Belarusian and Russian passports in the USA

Recently, Alexander Lukashenko introduced a new rule affecting Belarusian citizens living abroad. They can no longer renew, replace, or obtain passports at consulates. To update their passport, they must personally return to Belarus. This decision has impacted many Belarusians residing outside the country.

The “Bridge Act” Bill

In response to these changes, the U.S. Congress introduced Bill S.5116, known as the “Bridge Act”. This important bill, proposed by Senator Benjamin Cardin, aims to support Belarusian and Russian citizens who are temporarily or permanently living abroad.

Recognition of Expired Passports

According to the bill, the U.S. plans to recognize expired Belarusian passports as valid for travel to the country and allow visas to be issued in such passports. This provision would enable Belarusians with expired passports to enter and leave the U.S. without needing to return to Belarus solely to renew their documents.

Support from the European Union

The bill also includes a call for the European Commission to consider issuing legal documents for Belarusians abroad, allowing them to undertake international travel without hindrance.

Procedures for Belarusians and Russians

An important detail is that within 90 days of the law’s enactment, the U.S. Department of State, in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security, must establish a process to recognize expired Belarusian passports as valid for entry and exit from the U.S. This measure will remain in effect until it is confirmed that Belarusians can safely return home to renew their documents.

Similar support will be provided to Russian citizens. Within 180 days of the law’s enactment, a procedure will be established to recognize expired Russian passports as valid for travel to and from the U.S. This measure will also stay in place until it is deemed safe for Russian citizens to return to Russia for document renewal.

In addition to this, initiatives have also been introduced to support Ukrainian citizens.
You can learn more about how the US Congress extended benefits for Ukrainians and provided for refunds for work permits on form I-765 from our articles.
The US Congress extended benefits for Ukrainians
Refunds for Ukrainians for work permits on form I-765