Month: November 2024
Work Permits: A Comprehensive Overview of Global Requirements
Navigating international employment requires understanding the complex world of work permits and immigration regulations. This guide provides essential information about work authorization documents, from basic definitions to country-specific requirements. Whether you’re an employer seeking international talent or a professional planning to work abroad, you’ll find detailed insights about application processes, documentation requirements, and key differences between work permits and visas. Learn about the most accessible countries for work authorization, processing times, costs, and how to ensure compliance with local employment laws.
What is a Permit to Work
A Permit to Work (PTW) is a specialized authorization document that forms part of a systematic approach to managing workplace risks through proper authority and control. It’s a comprehensive safety management system that ensures adequate risk assessment before any hazardous or non-standard operations begin. The PTW system focuses on identifying potential hazards, establishing safety protocols, and maintaining clear communication throughout the entire process. The system is designed to mitigate environmental, health, and safety risks by requiring thorough assessment of work scope and associated dangers. It designates authorized personnel for hazardous tasks and appoints safety officers responsible for maintaining safe operations. The process encompasses risk identification, employee training, regular safety briefings, and continuous monitoring of protocols. Upon work completion, all documentation must be signed off by safety officers and retained for record-keeping purposes. This structured approach makes PTW an essential component of workplace safety management, particularly in industries with high-risk operations.
What is Needed to Obtain a Work Permit?
To obtain a work permit, several essential requirements and documentation must be fulfilled through a structured application process. The foundation of any work permit application is a valid job offer or employment contract from an authorized employer, as merely interviewing for positions doesn’t warrant a permit. Applicants must provide valid identification documents, such as a passport or government-issued ID, alongside proof of relevant qualifications and experience.
The application process typically requires submission of a completed work permit form, accompanied by recent photographs and financial documentation proving stability. Many jurisdictions mandate health certificates, criminal background checks, and proof of residence. Professional credentials, including educational certificates and relevant licenses, must be authenticated. The financial aspect includes application fees and may require bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds.
Processing times vary significantly by jurisdiction and permit type, ranging from weeks to months. Most modern systems offer online application platforms, though some documents may require in-person submission. It’s worth noting that many countries require employer sponsorship, where the hiring company initiates the permit process and demonstrates the inability to find suitable local candidates. Application fees, processing requirements, and specific documentation needs vary by location and permit type, making it essential to verify current requirements with local authorities.
Types of Work Permits
Work permits come in several distinct categories, each designed to address specific employment scenarios and labor market needs. Temporary work permits are granted for fixed-term employment, typically covering seasonal jobs or specific project assignments. These permits require employer sponsorship and often demand proof that no qualified local candidates are available for the position. The duration and conditions vary by jurisdiction, but they generally maintain strict time limitations.
General work permits target skilled professionals with technical expertise or specialized knowledge in high-demand fields. These permits often lead to longer-term employment opportunities and may provide pathways to permanent residency. Applicants must demonstrate their qualifications through educational credentials, professional certifications, and relevant work experience.
For specific industries facing labor shortages, governments issue occupation-specific permits to fill crucial workforce gaps. These targeted permits help address market demands in sectors like healthcare, technology, or agriculture. Additionally, business and investment permits cater to entrepreneurs and investors planning to establish commercial ventures in the host country, often tied to specific investment thresholds or business development metrics.
Working holiday permits represent a unique category, designed primarily for young adults seeking to combine travel with temporary employment opportunities. These permits typically stem from bilateral agreements between countries and allow holders to work while exploring the host nation, usually for up to one year. The eligibility criteria often include age restrictions and nationality requirements based on international agreements.
Work Permit vs. Work Visa
While work permits and visas are both essential documents for international employment, they serve distinct purposes. A visa primarily grants entry and stay permission in a foreign country, functioning as a passport endorsement that allows border crossing and temporary residence. It’s typically obtained from embassies or consulates before entering the country.
A work permit, on the other hand, specifically authorizes legal employment within the host country. This document focuses on employment rights rather than entry privileges and is usually issued by the host country’s government or immigration authorities. Work permits often require more detailed documentation, including proof of qualifications, job offers, and evidence that the position couldn’t be filled by local workers.
The application processes also differ significantly. Visa applications must generally be completed before entering a country, while work permit applications can often be processed while already in the country. Work permits typically face stricter requirements and longer processing times, reflecting their role in protecting domestic labor markets. Some countries require both documents – the visa for entry and stay, and the work permit for legal employment. The duration and renewal processes also vary, with work permits often offering longer validity periods and clearer paths to permanent residency compared to standard visas.
What is the Easiest Country to Get a Work Visa
Based on recent data, Estonia stands out as the easiest country to obtain a work visa, particularly due to its high acceptance rate for work visa applications and relatively streamlined process. The country’s digital infrastructure and e-residency program further simplify the application process. Estonia actively welcomes foreign workers through its “Work in Estonia” initiative, which posts new job opportunities daily.
Following Estonia, Lithuania ranks as another accessible option for work visas. The country’s approach favors immigrant workers, with a unique system that can exempt highly qualified professionals from standard work permit requirements. Instead of traditional work visas, these professionals may qualify for temporary residence permits, offering a more direct path to employment.
Iceland provides an attractive combination of straightforward visa processes and excellent work-life balance. With a standard 40-hour flexible workweek, the country offers various work permit categories catering to different professional needs, from expert knowledge positions to specialized employees and students. The main requirement is securing an employment contract before visa application.
Latvia and Slovakia round out the top five easiest countries for obtaining work visas. Latvia offers multiple permit types (A, C, E, and D) suited to different work scenarios, while Slovakia’s developing market economy and projected growth make it increasingly accessible to foreign workers. The country’s single permit system combines residence and work authorization, streamlining the process.
Luxembourg and Czechia also maintain relatively accessible work visa systems. Luxembourg, despite its small size, offers attractive conditions with Europe’s highest minimum wage and lowest unemployment rate. The Czech Republic appeals to international workers through its Employee Card system and special provisions for highly qualified professionals, supported by its growing economy and strategic location.
These countries generally share common features that make their work visa processes more accessible: digital application systems, multiple visa categories to suit different needs, and clear pathways for highly skilled workers. Many also offer expedited processes for specific industries or qualifications, particularly in sectors experiencing labor shortages.
Work Permits and Immigration in Belarus
Foreign workers in Belarus require a Special Permit for employment, with processing typically taking 15 days, while Hi-Tech Park residents enjoy an expedited 7-day timeline. Key exemptions apply to EAEU citizens, Belarus university graduates (within 1 year in their field), HTP employees, and international award winners. For company directors and highly qualified specialists, the process is simplified with no local labor market testing required. The state fee is 5 basic units for initial permits and 3 for extensions. Beyond Belarus, explore opportunities in Estonia’s digital-first system or Lithuania’s startup-friendly policies, where we detail actual timelines, costs, and qualification requirements across key markets.
In Belarus, the Hi-Tech Park (HTP) resident companies enjoy a major advantage: work permits for their foreign specialists are typically issued within 7 business days versus the standard 15-day process. Senior management positions (CEO, CTO) are exempt from labor market testing. Foreign IT specialists can obtain a work permit for up to 5 years, while standard permits require annual renewal. The base permit fee is 165 BYN (~$50 USD), with expedited processing available for an additional 330 BYN. Companies registered in the Great Stone Industrial Park also benefit from streamlined procedures, receiving permit decisions within 5 working days.
Conclusion
Understanding work permits and visas is crucial for successful international recruitment and employment. The constantly evolving landscape of immigration policies and work authorization requirements demands expert guidance for both employers and job seekers.
Recruitment.by offers comprehensive support in navigating these complexities, leveraging our extensive database of professionals both within Belarus and internationally. Our expertise extends beyond basic recruitment to include thorough understanding of work permit processes, visa requirements, and international HR management.
Our team specializes in talent acquisition, HR consulting, and management solutions, ensuring compliance with local and international employment regulations. Whether you need to find qualified specialists or require guidance on work permit procedures, our experienced consultants can streamline your hiring process while maintaining legal compliance and professional standards in any jurisdiction.
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Decree on HTP
В последние годы белорусский сектор информационных технологий и инновационного предпринимательства претерпел значительные изменения. Одним из самых ярких примеров такой трансформации является Декрет Президента Республики Беларусь о создании Парка высоких технологий (ПВТ), который был принят с целью стимулирования развития IT-отрасли и создания благоприятных условий для инновационных компаний и индивидуальных предпринимателей. Данный документ стал ключевым шагом на пути к модернизации экономики страны, обеспечивая не только налоговые льготы и преференции для резидентов ПВТ, но и поддержку инновационных инициатив, что в свою очередь, привело к значительному облегчению ведения ИТ-бизнеса в Беларуси. ПВТ стал не только центром притяжения для молодых предпринимателей и инвесторов, но и платформой для внедрения передовых технологий, активно способствуя интеграции Беларуси в глобальную экономику. В данной статье мы рассмотрим особенности Декрета, его характеристику, влияние на развитие стартапов и IT-сектора, и особенности, которые установил Декрет о ПВТ в сфере привлечения персонала.
Как появился и развивался Декрет о ПВТ
Парк высоких технологий создан в 2005 году. 22 сентября 2005 года Декрет № 12 утвердил Положение о Парке высоких технологий. ПВТ стал специальным правовым режимом, который должен обеспечить развитие и конкурентоспособность белорусской ИТ-сферы. ПВТ не является территорией, на которой должны быть зарегистрированы резиденты ПВТ, а объединяет своих резидентов единым льготным правовым режимом. Территория ПВТ находится в границах Минска, и там есть возможность разместить компанию. Резиденты ПВТ могут находиться физически в разных регионах Беларуси, но они имеют более мягкую систему налогообложения и ведения бизнеса по сравнению с другими компаниями и предпринимателями, которые не являются резидентами ПВТ.
В связи с активным развитием ИТ-сферы в Беларуси новый этап развития ПВТ начался в 2017 году: в Декрет № 12 внесли поправки, которые действуют с марта 2018 года. Декрет № 8, который изменил Декрет № 12, ускорил развитие в Беларуси ИТ-бизнеса в продуктовой сфере. С 2017 года в более, чем в 5 раз выросло количество резидентов ПВТ. Количество продуктовых ИТ-компаний возросло более, чем в 10 раз.
Краткая характеристика Декрета о ПВТ
Декрет Президента Республики Беларусь о Парке высоких технологий (ПВТ) был принят в 2005 году и стал важным шагом в развитии информационных технологий и инновационного предпринимательства в стране. Основная цель данного Декрета — создание благоприятных условий для развития IT-сектора, привлечение инвестиций и поддержка стартапов.
Основные положения Декрета
1. Создание правовой базы
Декрет ввел юридический статус для Парка высоких технологий и определил его функции, задачи и организационную структуру.
2. Налоговые льготы и преференции
Резидентам ПВТ предоставлены значительные налоговые льготы, включая освобождение от налога на прибыль, налогов на добавленную стоимость (НДС) и других обязательных платежей на определённый период. Это делает Беларусь привлекательной для иностранных инвесторов и предпринимателей.
3. Стимулирование инноваций
Декрет способствовал внедрению новых технологий и разработке инновационных продуктов, создавая условия для научных исследований и разработок.
4. Инфраструктура
В ПВТ создаются современные офисные и производственные помещения, лаборатории и исследовательские центры, что способствует комфортной рабочей среде для программистов, инженеров и стартаперов.
5. Поддержка стартапов
ПВТ ориентирован не только на крупные компании, но и на малые и средние предприятия, предлагая менторскую поддержку, консультации и доступ к финансированию.
Влияние на экономику
Декрет о Парке высоких технологий оказал значительное влияние на развитие белорусской экономики. Беларусь стала известна как IT-страна, притягивая таланты и капиталы. ПВТ продемонстрировал высокий рост числа резидентов и объемов экспорта IT-услуг. Множество успешных компаний, таких как Wargaming, EPAM Systems и другие, начали свой путь именно в этом Парке.
Перспективы
Парк высоких технологий продолжает развиваться, адаптируясь к новым вызовам и трендам в мире технологий. Принятие нового законодательства и дальнейшее развитие инфраструктуры, а также активное сотрудничество с международными партнерами открывают новые горизонты для белорусского IT-сектора. Успехи ПВТ могут служить моделью для других стран, стремящихся к развитию инноваций и высоких технологий.
Таким образом, Декрет Президента Беларуси о Парке высоких технологий стал катализатором перемен, который помог стране обрести свое место на мировой IT-карте и продолжает играть ключевую роль в формировании конкурентоспособной экономики.
Какие возможности предоставил Декрет № 8
Декрет от 21 декабря 2017 года № 8 продлил действие специального правового режима ПВТ. С 2020 года специальный режим продлен до 2049 года.
Резиденты ПВТ могут осуществлять больше видов деятельности. Например, они могут вести образовательную деятельность в сфере информационных технологий, деятельность в сфере кибер-спорта, включая подготовку команд и организацию трансляции соревнований, деятельность в сфере искусственного интеллекта.
Определена возможность работы с криптовалютами белорусских компаний и физических лиц. Например, компании могут совершать сделки с криптовалютой через резидентов ПВТ.
Определены требования к криптоброкерам и криптообменникам. Это могут быть только резиденты ПВТ.
В Декрет о ПВТ неоднократно вносили поправки, его совершенствовали вместе с обновлениями ИТ-сферы.
Налоговые льготы по Декрету о ПВТ
Налоговые льготы для резидентов ПВТ и физических лиц по операциям с криптовалютой, которые по Декрету о ПВТ заканчивались 1 января 2023 года, продлили до 1 января 2025 года. Продление произошло по отдельному Указу о налогообложении.
Наблюдательный совет ПВТ – контролирующий орган
Компании, которые работают как криптоброкеры и криптообменники, оказывают услуги по размещению криптовалют, ведут другую деятельность с криптовалютами, должны соблюдать требования о предотвращении легализации преступных доходов, финансирования террористической деятельности и распространения оружия массового поражения. За соблюдением таких требований следит Наблюдательный совет ПВТ.
Такие компании должны в частности, разработать ряд документов в сфере внутреннего контроля, нанять персонал, ответственный за соблюдение требований внутреннего контроля.
Соглашение о неконкуренции с работником
Компании-резиденты ПВТ обычно привлекают сотрудников с высокими профессиональными навыками и ценностью на рынке труда. В данном случае такие компании могут подписывать с работниками соглашение о неконкуренции.
Согласно этому соглашению, сотрудник:
- Не имеет права работать в найме или по гражданско-правовому договору у конкурирующих компаний в течение оговоренного срока;
- Обязуется не создавать собственный бизнес в аналогичной сфере деятельности;
- Не может участвовать в управлении конкурентными компаниями.
В трудовом договоре или в отдельном соглашении резидент Парка высоких технологий устанавливает для сотрудника компенсацию за заключение соглашения о неконкуренции. Размер компенсации составляет не менее одной трети среднемесячной зарплаты за последний год работы.
В соглашении о неконкуренции прописывают следующие моменты:
- Территорию, в пределах которой сотрудник должен исполнять свои обязанности.
- Сферу деятельности, по которой сотрудник принимает на себя обязательства о неконкуренции.
- Ответственность за нарушение условий соглашения.
Действует такое соглашение не дольше одного года после прекращения трудовых отношений между сотрудником и резидентом ПВТ.
Положение о ПВТ
Декрет о ПВТ утвердил Положение о ПВТ. Положение определяет:
- Направления деятельности ПВТ.
- Порядок работы Наблюдательного совета ПВТ.
- Порядок регистрации резидентов ПВТ.
- Требования к деятельности резидентов ПВТ.
- Меры государственной поддержки резидентов ПВТ. К таким мерам относятся льготы по налогам и таможенным пошлинам, арендной плате на территории ПВТ, взносам на государственное обязательное социальное страхование.
Особенности найма иностранных сотрудников в компании-резиденты ПВТ
Положение о ПВТ предусматривает особенности пребывания в Беларуси иностранных сотрудников компаний-резидентов ПВТ. Все формальности, которые связаны с пребыванием таких сотрудников в Беларуси, берут на себя компании-резиденты ПВТ. В частности, ходатайствуют о том, чтобы сотрудникам-иностранцам выдали разрешение на временное проживание в Беларуси на весь срок действия контракта с учетом продления срока его действия и 2 месяца после прекращения контракта.
Если для государства, в котором живет такой сотрудник, установлен визовый режим въезда в Беларусь, для работы в компании-резидента ПВТ виза не нужна. Виза также не нужна собственникам компаний-резидентов ПВТ и работникам компаний-собственников резидентов ПВТ. Такие сотрудники и собственники могут пребывать в Беларуси в течение полугода в календарном году без разрешения на временное пребывание.
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What Do Companies Do in HTP
The Hi-Tech Park is a special legal regime created to support and develop companies engaged in science and high technology. The residents of the Hi-Tech Park are startups, innovative enterprises and research companies that strive to create advanced products and services. Companies in the Hi-Tech Park are engaged in software development, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, mobile applications and many other areas. Their activities contribute to technological progress and play an essential role in the region’s economic development, forming a new business environment based on innovation and cooperation. In this article, we will look closely at what companies do in the Hi-Tech Park, activities of HTP companies, how to find a business partner for a specific task among HTP residents and the specifics of hiring in HTP resident companies.
What is the Value of Companies – Residents of the High-Tech Park
The value of the Hi-Tech Park (HTP) resident companies lies in their ability to create innovative products and services that contribute to the development of the digital economy. These companies often focus on high technology, programming, software development and scientific research, attracting investments and IT specialists.
HTP residents receive many tax benefits and services, allowing them to compete more effectively in the international market. This creates attractive conditions for startups and established companies, contributing to the growth of the number of jobs.
In addition, HTP serves as a platform for the exchange of experience and knowledge, which helps companies adapt to industry changes. Joint projects and research help stimulate innovative thinking and contribute to the rapid development of new technologies.
What Types of Activities Can HTP Resident Companies Engage in?
HTP residents may not engage in any type of activity, but only those that the state has identified as possible for HTP residents. Currently, more than 40 types of activities are listed in a particular list. A company engaged in one or more activities from this list can become a HTP resident.
In particular, activities of HTP companies include:
Design, develop and implement information systems and software, including computer games for various platforms, and granting permissions to use the software and transfer exclusive rights to it.
Within the framework of this activity, the following tasks are performed:
- Production of programs at the request of customers.
- Design, development and implementation of automated control systems.
- Provision of services for the implementation, support and maintenance of information systems and software created by a resident of the Hi-Tech Park and third parties.
- User training on working with these systems and software.
In software implementation, companies prepare the necessary documents, design solutions and support the implementation.
Companies also test and refine software, create databases, provide access, and maintain them.
HTP resident companies also:
- Process data and conduct research in natural and technical sciences.
- Develop, test and implement new materials, technologies and devices.
- Are engaged in the technical and cryptographic protection of information.
- Operate in the area of technical and cryptographic protection of information.
- Conduct business analyses of clients’ processes and advise them on how to use information technology in business.
- Audit information systems for compliance with the state’s requirements or the user’s needs.
- Provide services for the maintenance of state information systems.
- Work with unmanned transport management systems.
- Work with the financial sector: they implement contactless technologies, mobile applications, and electronic trading.
- Work in the field of medical and aviation technologies.
- Outsource the business processes of foreign companies with the help of their software developments.
- Are engaged in the Internet of Things.
- Conduct educational online activities according to programs approved by the Supervisory Board.
- Are active in the field of cryptocurrencies.
- Promote software online: marketing, advertising, and promotion consultations.
- Are active in the field of esports.
Using the software developed by them, HTP resident companies:
- Provide services to online exchanges, including cryptocurrency exchanges.
- Are engaged in online advertising.
How to Find Out What a HTP Resident Company Does
Knowing the company’s name or its UNP (payer’s account number), you can view the register of HTP residents and find out what this company does. Such a search is implemented on the website of the Hi-Tech Park in the section “HTP Residents”. To search, you need to type the name of the company or its UNP in a particular field. In the window that opens, you can find information about the company, its website and type of activity as an HTP resident.
How to Choose an HTP Company for Cooperation
An online showcase of digital projects has been created in Belarus, where you can choose a developer to implement the project – цифровые-проекты.бел. You can select a developer based on projects that have already been created. You can choose a project from the drop-down list.
You can find the project and its developer by looking at the list of activity fields and development areas. After selecting the activity and development direction field, digital projects in these areas and development companies will appear in the window. It should be noted that digital projects are not presented for all fields of activity.
You can also select a company of interest from the developers’ drop-down list and learn about the projects it has developed.
What to Pay Attention to When Hiring Staff for a HTP Resident Company
When hiring employees for companies operating in the Hi-Tech Park, recruiters should consider several specific factors that will help them choose the most suitable candidates. Here are the highlights:
1. Technical Skills
HTP companies often require highly qualified specialists. The candidate must have the necessary technical skills and experience working with modern technologies and tools.
2. Work Experience in Startups
The experience of working in startups is valuable, as it testifies to the candidate’s ability to adapt to rapidly changing conditions and work in conditions of uncertainty.
3. Creativity and Innovative Thinking
The ability to generate new ideas and approaches is important in the field of high technology. Recruiters should evaluate candidates’ creative thinking and willingness to seek non-standard solutions.
4. Teamwork and Communication Skills
The team implements most HTP projects. Maintaining internal team dynamics is critical, so evaluating the candidate’s interaction and communication skills is essential.
5. Learning Ability and Commitment to Development
In the rapidly developing field of high technology, employees must be ready for training and self-development. Evaluate the candidate’s motivation to constantly explore new tools and technologies.
6. Cultural Compatibility
Each company has its own corporate culture. Evaluate how the candidate’s values and work style match the culture of your company and team.
7. Professional Network
Having an extensive professional network can be an advantage. Candidates actively involved in professional communities can bring additional connections and opportunities to the company.
Following these recommendations, recruiters will be able to select personnel more effectively who meet the unique requirements and values of the Hi-Tech Park’s resident companies.
What to Pay Attention to if you Want to Get a Job in a HTP Resident Company
Suppose you are considering employment in a High-Tech Park resident company. In that case, preparing and considering several vital aspects will help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of successful employment.
1. Company Research
Explore information about the company, its products and services, corporate culture, and current projects. Understanding the company’s specialization and values will allow you to better prepare for the interview and ask meaningful questions.
2. Resume and Portfolio Development
Prepare a clear and structured resume focusing on your experience and skills that meet the vacancy’s requirements. If possible, create a portfolio with examples of your work, mainly if you aim for creative or technical positions.
3. Knowledge of Modern Technologies
HTP companies work at the cutting edge of technology. Update your knowledge of the latest trends in the field you want to work in, and make sure you have experience working with relevant programming tools and languages.
4. Willingness to Learn
The high pace of change in the IT sector requires employees to be flexible and ready to learn. Emphasize in your resume and at the interview your willingness to develop and master new skills.
5. Team Communications
Most companies value the ability to work in a team and communicate effectively with colleagues. Therefore, pay attention to the development of your teamwork skills and the ability to conduct a dialogue.
6. Preparing for the Interview
Prepare for different types of interviews — technical, behavioral, and situational. Practice answering typical questions, and prepare examples from your experience that illustrate your skills and achievements.
7. Networking and Recommendations
Use your contacts to get recommendations or valuable information about the company. Professional events and conferences can also help you make the right acquaintances.
8. Cultural Сompatibility
Each company has its own unique culture. Try to understand how well you will fit into this culture, and be ready to discuss how your values and approaches can fit the team.
Careful preparation, company research and an emphasis on your professional qualities will help you successfully find a job in an HTP resident company.
We’re Here to Help
If you contact us by the email we guarantee that you will receive a feedback from us within 2 (two) hours on any business day and within 6 (six) hours on any other day (holidays etc.).
Secretariat of the Supervisory Board / Administration of the HTP
Innovation is becoming a key factor in economic growth and competitiveness in the modern world. Many countries are creating unique structures to support and develop high-tech industries. One such example is Belarus’s High Technology Park (HTP), vital in shaping the country’s innovative economy. To ensure the effective operation of HTP, it is necessary to have a transparent management and coordination system. In this article, we will look at the role and functions of the Secretariat of the Supervisory Board, which is one of the critical elements of HTP management. We will analyze the main tasks and powers of the Secretariat, its interaction with HTP residents and candidates for residents, and its contribution to the development of the innovation ecosystem of Belarus.
Management of the Hi-Tech Park
In a broad sense, HTP administration is a management company that administers HTP activities. Until April 2023, the management body of the Hi-Tech Park was called the State Institution “Administration of the Hi-Tech Park”. After the reorganization, since April 2023, the management system of the Hi-Tech Park has changed: a management company has been established in the HTP structure, the purpose of which is the active strategic development of HTP.
This company represents the Hi-Tech Park in cooperation with foreign partners and also helps HTP residents expand exports, explore new markets, and attract foreign investment. A representative of the management company is included in the Hi-Tech Park’s supervisory board.
The HTP Supervisory Board is a Park management body that deals with HTP development issues and reviews information on HTP work provided by the Secretariat of the Supervisory Board of the Hi-Tech Park.
There is no such governing body as the Hi-Tech Park Administration. Since May 2024, the successor of the Administration has been the Secretariat of the HTP Supervisory Board.
What is the HTP Supervisory Board Secretariat
The Secretariat of the Supervisory Board of the Hi-Tech Park is a non-profit state institution that ensures the work of the HTP Supervisory Board, interacts with HTP residents and resident candidates when submitting documents for admission to residents, and executes the decisions of the HTP Supervisory Board. The Secretariat has the right to engage in business activities. With the permission of the Belarusian Government, the Secretariat can open companies and be a member of commercial organizations.
The Secretariat of the HTP Supervisory Board is accountable to the Belarusian Government, and the HTP Supervisory Board controls the work of the Secretariat.
The Main Objectives of the HTP Supervisory Board Secretariat
The Secretariat strives to create comfortable conditions for the growth and competitiveness of the Republic of Belarus’s economic sectors, which are based on the use of new and advanced technologies. Also among the goals is to improve organizational, economic, and social factors to expand the export of high—tech products (goods, works, services) and attract investment.
The Main Tasks of the HTP Supervisory Board Secretariat
The main tasks of the HTP Supervisory Board Secretariat are as follows:
- Interaction with the management company.
- Ensuring the functioning of the HTP Supervisory Board.
- The development of export-oriented companies using new technologies.
- Creating a favourable investment climate in the field of new technologies.
- Specialists should be employed in high technologies, and their efficiency should be improved.
- Assistance in staffing the country’s economy’s innovative development and education in information and communication technologies.
- Creating conditions that will stimulate innovation and startup development.
- Payment for the work of experts who are involved in evaluating events and pilot projects in the field of digital development, as well as other objects of expertise in this area.
- Holding events aimed at strengthening the reputation of the Hi-Tech Park and its participants.
These actions aim to increase the competitiveness of domestic companies operating in high technology.
These tasks are aimed at supporting and developing companies that develop software, manufacture goods, and provide services using new and advanced technologies—HTP residents. The activities of the HTP Supervisory Board Secretariat contribute to creating a favourable environment for attracting investments in the IT sector and improving the competitiveness of the national economy.
How Does the HTP Supervisory Board Secretariat Interact with IT Companies
HTP residents and candidates for residents are interested in issues of interaction with the Secretariat of the HTP Supervisory Board. Since documents are sent through the Secretariat for consideration by the Supervisory Board for admission to the residents of the Hi-Tech Park, and HTP residents send documents for changing business projects.
Consideration of documents by the Secretariat
The Secretariat is the first step of the ladder that leads to the HTP since the Secretariat reviews the candidates for residents before submitting the documents to the HTP Supervisory Board for consideration. In this case, the total period for consideration of documents by the Secretariat is no longer than 2 months. And when there are flaws in the documents, the Secretariat does not transfer them to the Supervisory Board. Still, it returns them to the resident no later than ten days after receiving the documents.
Areas in which the Secretariat Interacts with HTP Residents
These are the main areas in which the Secretariat interacts with the residents of the Hi-Tech Park:
1. The Secretariat maintains a Register of HTP residents, issues certificates to business entities on their registration as HTP residents. It is essential to understand that the decision of the Supervisory Board on registering an HTP resident begins to take effect on the first day of the month following the month in which the decision was made. The certificate is issued to the resident within 10 working days after the decision on the resident’s registration is made.
2. In case of violations by HTP residents of state requirements, the Secretariat sends documents to the management company and the HTP Supervisory Board for decisions on deprivation of status and loss of benefits.
3. On behalf of the Supervisory Board, the Secretariat organizes scientific and technical expertise of business projects and activities of HTP resident candidates. This is necessary to determine whether the types of activities allowed for HTP residents correspond, whether business projects are innovative and whether they contribute to the development of the IT sector.
4. HTP residents must send copies of tax and statistical reports and other information related to the activities of HTP residents to the Secretariat of the HTP Supervisory Board.
5. The Secretariat cooperates with contractors who ensure the operation of HTP infrastructure and HTP residents.
6. The Secretariat represents the interests of HTP residents in their interaction with government agencies.
7. The Secretariat deals with the work of the HTP business incubator and invites HTP resident staff to act as mentors and experts.
8. HTP residents and companies that support residents’ activities conclude lease agreements for real estate and other property on the Hi-Tech Park’s territory.
9. The Secretariat interacts with HTP residents to analyze their activities and explain the prospects and opportunities for further development.
10. Regarding the conscription of employees of HTP resident companies, the Secretariat interacts with military enlistment offices, and employees may apply for service in special information technology units.
11. HTP residents are required to quarterly deduct to the Secretariat 1% of the revenue for the previous quarter from their activities as HTP residents, including the sale of tokens.
12. In case of a change in the composition of the owners of the HTP resident company, the owner of the HTP resident’s property, the resident must inform the Secretariat no later than 10 days.
13. The Secretariat may act as a customer for construction on the HTP’s territory, including housing for HTP residents.
What Contribution does the HTP Supervisory Board Secretariat Make to the Development of the Innovation Ecosystem in Belarus
As part of its activities, the Secretariat can contribute to the development of the innovation ecosystem in the following ways:
1. Development and Implementation of HTP Development Strategies and Programs
This may include identifying priority areas of development, attracting investments, and creating conditions for developing startups and other subjects of innovative activity.
2. Support for Innovative Projects
The Secretariat can provide consulting, financial and organizational support to projects implemented within the framework of HTP.
3. Infrastructure Development
The Secretariat can participate in creating and developing the infrastructure necessary for the operation of HTP, including technology parks, business incubators, technology transfer centres, and other facilities.
4. Interaction with Government Agencies and International Organizations
The Secretariat can represent the interests of HTP in cooperation with government agencies and participate in international projects and programs aimed at developing innovative activities.
We’re Here to Help
If you contact us by the email we guarantee that you will receive a feedback from us within 2 (two) hours on any business day and within 6 (six) hours on any other day (holidays etc.).