FAQ

Here we have gathered answers to frequently asked questions related to the needs of the trans community.

Is it possible to undergo gender transition in Belarus?

Yes, it is possible. The process is described in detail in our guide.

How long does gender transition take in Belarus?

To obtain permission to change your name and gender marker in your passport and other documents, you must be under observation at the Republican Scientific and Practical Center for Mental Health for at least one year and receive approval from an interdepartmental commission, which convenes 1–2 times a year.

To obtain permission to begin hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and undergo gender-affirming surgeries, you must remain under observation for at least another year after your first commission review and receive another approval from the commission.

In total, the entire process takes at least 2–3 years.

What is the minimum age to start gender transition in Belarus?

To start the gender transition process in Belarus, you must register at the Republican Scientific and Practical Center for Mental Health, which is only possible after you turn 18 years old.

Given the established procedures, you won't be able to get permission to change your documents until you are at least 19 years old. To begin gender-affirming hormone therapy or have surgeries, you must be at least 20-21 years old.

Can citizens of other countries undergo gender transition in Belarus?

The gender transition procedure is only available to citizens of the Republic of Belarus.

However, if a citizen of another country has already changed their gender marker in their documents, they can undergo gender-affirming surgeries (vaginoplasty, phalloplasty, orchiectomy, hysterectomy, mastectomy) in Belarus on a paid basis.

How much does gender transition cost in Belarus?

For Belarusian citizens, the entire gender transition process is free of charge — from the decision to change the gender marker to gender-affirming surgeries — provided that the required commission approvals are obtained.

For citizens of other countries, gender-affirming surgeries are provided on a paid basis.