International Transfers for Legal Services

International settlements have become an integral part of business for Belarusian companies that work with foreign partners, provide services abroad, or, conversely, engage overseas contractors. This applies not only to large industrial enterprises but also to representatives of the IT sector, marketing agencies, consulting firms, and other areas focused on the global market.

However, making international transfers to or from legal entities involves several requirements and specific rules. The state closely regulates foreign exchange operations: contracts must be executed properly, certain agreements require registration, and both tax obligations and currency control procedures must be adhered to. Violations in this area can result not only in fines but also in blocked payments.

For businesses, it is important to understand:

• how to properly organize international payments to avoid delays;
• which documents must be prepared and submitted to the bank;
• in which cases foreign currency contracts must be registered and within what deadlines;
• what specific aspects apply to service payments (as opposed to goods) and why this category of transactions often raises more questions from regulators.

In the context of active digitalization and integration with international payment systems, the process is becoming more convenient, yet it remains complex from a legal perspective. Competent support and knowledge of practice allow companies to avoid risks and build transparent relationships with foreign counterparties.

This article will examine the key aspects of international transfers for service payments to legal entities, review documentation requirements, currency control procedures, and common mistakes to avoid.

How International Transfers for Goods and Services Differ

International settlements may involve payments for either goods or services. At first glance, the procedure looks the same: a contract is signed, an invoice is issued, and the bank processes the payment. In practice, however, service payments to legal entities tend to raise additional questions from banks and supervisory authorities.

Why Service Payments Attract More Regulatory Attention

A goods contract is easier to confirm, there are invoices, shipping documents, and customs declarations that record the delivery. In the case of services, there is no material object: the result cannot be “touched,” which is why the state pays closer attention to their documentary confirmation.

Service payments without proper justification may be regarded as a potential capital outflow or a tax avoidance scheme. For this reason, banks thoroughly review the content of contracts and the consistency of documents with the stated payment purpose.

Examples of Services Requiring Special Attention

IT services: software development, technical support, SaaS models. It is important to confirm that services were actually provided and that licenses or access rights were granted.

Consulting and legal support: the challenge lies in describing the scope and nature of the work. General wording such as “consulting services” is insufficient, details are required.

Marketing services: particularly online advertising campaigns. Banks and tax authorities often request reports on completed activities or placement statistics.

Software licensing: acquiring licenses and rights to use software also falls into the category of services. The contract should clearly specify the terms of license provision and its validity period.

How to Confirm the Provision of Services

To successfully pass currency control, companies must prepare a set of documents proving that the service was indeed rendered:

• a contract with a clear description of the subject matter and terms of services;
• an invoice issued by the foreign counterparty;
• an act of acceptance or a report confirming the result;
• if necessary — additional documents (e.g., screenshots of ad campaigns, technical documentation, work reports, licenses, and certificates).

Thus, the key difference between payments for goods and services lies in the evidence: for goods, proof comes from physical delivery and customs paperwork, whereas for services, it comes from properly drafted documentation confirming the reality and scope of the work performed.

Documents Required for International Transfers

The successful execution of an international payment depends on the proper preparation of documents. These documents confirm the legality of the transaction and allow the bank to process the transfer without delays. When it comes to payments for services of legal entities, the requirements are especially strict, since the result has no physical form and must be documented accordingly.

Contract with a Foreign Counterparty: Key Terms

The foundation of any transfer is the contract. It must be concluded in written form, although residents of the Belarus Hi-Tech Park (HTP) are allowed to sign contracts electronically or via electronic document exchange. A standard contract typically includes:

• a precise description of the subject matter (what services are provided, in what volume, and within what timeframe);
• the cost and payment terms (fixed fee, hourly rate, subscription fee, etc.);
• the currency of payment and method of settlement;
• the procedure for confirming service delivery (acts, reports, or other documents);
• liability of the parties.

The more specific the contract is, the fewer questions will arise from the bank and currency control authorities. General wording such as “provision of consulting services” without clarification of content and scope may lead to additional requests.

Completion Certificates, Invoices, and Other Supporting Documents

Once obligations are fulfilled, the counterparty issues documents confirming that the services were provided:

• Invoice — includes the details of the parties, a description of the service, payment amount, and currency;
• Certificate of completion or report — confirms that the service has been provided and accepted by the customer. HTP residents may issue unilateral service delivery documents for foreign clients;
• Additional evidence (advertising campaign reports, technical documentation, screenshots, licenses, certificates).

For recurring services (e.g., IT support or subscription-based legal services), documents are issued regularly, monthly or quarterly. To better navigate the specifics of transactions with foreign business partners, we recommend consulting our experienced lawyers.

Bank Requirements for Payment Orders

When receiving a payment order, the bank checks:

• the purpose of the payment;
• reference to the contract (its number and date);
• correct indication of the currency and recipient details;
• compliance of the amount with the declared contract terms.

Banks are entitled to request copies of the contract, certificates, or other documents to verify the transaction. If the purpose of payment contains vague wording (e.g., “payment under the contract” without details), the transfer may be suspended until clarification is provided.

Thus, for international transfers it is crucial not only to have a contract and invoice, but also to ensure that all supporting documents are properly drafted. Detailed contract terms and transparent payment purposes help pass currency control smoothly and ensure timely receipt of funds.

Currency Control and Contract Registration

One of the elements of currency control in Belarus is the registration of certain foreign trade contracts. Contracts subject to registration must be filed through the web portal of the National Bank of Belarus. Registration can be carried out by the company itself, an individual entrepreneur (IE), or a private individual. Alternatively, the servicing bank may register the foreign trade contract on the client’s behalf under a separate agreement.

When Contract Registration is Required

Registration is mandatory if a contract between a Belarusian company (or IE) and a foreign counterparty provides for payments for services, works, goods, or rights in cases where:

• the contract amount is not specified; or
• the contract value exceeds the established threshold: 2,000 base units for contracts signed by resident individuals, and 4,000 base units for contracts concluded by Belarusian companies or individual entrepreneurs with foreign partners.

If the contract amount is below the threshold and payments are one-off, registration is not required. Nevertheless, banks have the right to request additional information to confirm the legitimacy of the transaction.

Deadlines for Contract Registration

Companies are required to register a contract before starting to fulfill obligations under it or within 7 days after the date of receipt of funds into the resident’s bank account. In case of changes to the contract terms (for example, an increase in the amount or an extension of the term), it is also necessary to update the registered data.

Deadlines and Procedure for International Payments

International transfers for goods and services go through several stages, from document verification to the actual crediting of funds to the account of the foreign counterparty. Understanding the standard timelines and the specifics of payment systems helps companies avoid disruptions in settlements and build stable relationships with partners.

Standard Timeframes for Crediting and Transfers

In most cases, an international transfer takes from one to three business days. In practice, the timeframe depends on:

• the currency of the payment;
• the recipient’s country;
• the chosen correspondent bank;
• the time of sending the order.

Transfers in US dollars and euros are usually processed faster than in less common currencies, since they rely on a more developed system of correspondent relationships.

Features of SWIFT and Other International Systems

The classical option for international payments is the SWIFT system, which connects banks worldwide. Most transfers between legal entities go through it. The main advantages of SWIFT are reliability and global reach, but the involvement of intermediaries may result in additional fees and delays.

Apart from SWIFT, alternative systems may be used for certain currencies. For example:

• SEPA — for euro transfers within the European Union and some EEA countries, usually credited within 1 business day;
• Regional settlement mechanisms (for example, within the CIS) — depending on agreements between banks.

In the countries of the former USSR, international payments between legal entities are usually carried out through several main channels, in addition to SWIFT:

Correspondent accounts — direct settlements through correspondent banks, often in rubles, dollars, or euros. Used in cases where SWIFT is not always convenient;

Regional systems:

• BIS/EAST (Unified Settlement and Clearing System) — exchange of payments in national currencies between banks of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and other EAEU countries;
• Interbank clearing centers — for faster settlements in rubles, tenge, Belarusian rubles, and other local currencies;

Electronic platforms and corporate banks — some banks provide direct platforms for settlements within the CIS, reducing payment processing time.

The main feature of transfers in this region is the possibility of settlements in national currencies through regional clearing systems, which reduces fees and speeds up the crediting of funds.

Possible Delays in International Settlements and How to Minimize Them

Even under the standard procedure, delays may occur. The main reasons are:

• incomplete or incorrect details in the payment order;
• discrepancies between the contract and the payment purpose;
• enhanced bank checks of the transaction within the framework of currency control;
• the involvement of several correspondent banks, each adding processing time.

To minimize risks, companies should:

• agree with the bank in advance on payment details and purpose of payment;
• provide a complete and properly executed set of documents;
• take into account holidays and weekends in the recipient’s country;
• plan international transfers with a time buffer.

Recommendations for Belarusian Companies

Carrying out international payments for services of legal entities requires attentiveness and a systematic approach. Companies that organize the process in advance and properly prepare documents minimize the risks of delays and payment blocks.

How to Prepare Documents to Pass Currency Control Without Delays

1. The contract with the counterparty must contain correctly formulated terms: description of services, deadlines, cost, currency, and the procedure for confirming the fact of service delivery.
2. Invoices and certificates of completion must be drawn up strictly in accordance with the contract terms. The details of the parties and the payment purpose in the documents should match.
3. Additional supporting evidence (reports, licenses, screenshots, technical documentation) helps the bank and supervisory authorities verify the legality of the transaction.
4. Timely registration of the foreign currency contract (if required) and entering the necessary data into the registration form.

Practical Advice for Foreign and Local Partners

1. Always clarify the payment details and currency in advance to avoid discrepancies.
2. Plan payments with a time buffer, taking into account holidays and weekends in the recipient’s country.
3. Use SWIFT or regional clearing systems depending on the currency and the counterparty’s country. For CIS countries, settlements through regional clearings in national currencies are often more advantageous.
4. Keep a complete set of documents confirming the provision of services — this will help during inspections or bank requests.
5. For regular transfers, consider the possibility of preliminary document review by the bank or a consultant to minimize the likelihood of delays.

Conclusion

International transfers for services of legal entities require thorough preparation and careful compliance with all currency control requirements. From proper drafting of contracts and certificates of completion to the correct indication of details and payment purpose, every detail affects the speed and security of the transfer.

Companies that plan the process, use appropriate payment systems, and cooperate with the bank minimize the risks of delays and payment blocks. At the same time, cooperation with professional lawyers and accountants helps avoid mistakes, speed up the registration of foreign currency contracts, and ensure the legality of all transactions.

Our team is ready to provide comprehensive support for international payments, from document review and preparation of payment orders to consulting on the selection of the optimal transfer system and assistance at all stages of the transaction. With us, your settlements with foreign partners will be transparent, secure, and timely.

How to contact us 

For more information or a consultation on international transfers and payment for services of legal entities in Belarus, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help and support you.

Phone and email communication options are available for your convenience:

• +375293664477 (WhatsApp/Telegram/Viber);
• info@spex.by.