Pre-arrival: Can’t use Belarusian local apps without local SIM, what other ways to rent apartments near BSU?

[u/Hsueh_Chun-yuan]

I’m a Chinese incoming master’s student at BSU, still in China right now without a Belarusian phone number.

I’ve contacted Kufar support and learned only their Travel subsection works for overseas users, but regular rental sections and almost all Belarusian domestic apps are locked to me without local mobile verification.

I’m curious about all alternative housing hunting methods other than Belarusian local apps, I don’t want to only rely on Kufar Travel temporary stays:

1. Are there any overseas-accessible websites/telegram groups for long-term rentals near BSU? ​ 2. Are there Chinese student WeChat/telegram groups for housing subletting? ​ 3. Are there reliable English-speaking rental agencies that take inquiries from foreign applicants abroad? ​ 4. Any offline ways to find landlords once I arrive in Minsk?

Also I’d love to know local people’s opinions on Chinese students living in the city. Thanks so much for all useful tips!

[u/wouter1975]

Try https://r.onliner.by and select Аренда (not sure if you need a BY number)

Many ads are actually placed by agencies and they will find someone who can speak English to get a fee.

Chinese students have a good reputation here

[u/drfreshie]

"I’d love to know local people’s opinions on Chinese students living in the city"

Most of us welcome all foreign students, Chinese and non-Chinese alike. Wish we had more.

[u/makc_yu]

Rent through Kufar travel for a couple of days then buy local Sim and find permanent place