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Russia launches e-visa facility for Indians; here’s how to apply, and other key details

Russia e-visa: the e-visa is valid for 60 days from the date of issue, and allows tourists to stay on the territory of russia for 16 days..

Russia has launched an e-visa facility for Indians from August 1, allowing travellers to the country to surpass the hassles of obtaining a regular visa.

The e-visa facility, also available for travellers from 54 other countries, does not require a visit to consulates or embassies.

Here are some key points to note while applying for e-visa:

🔴 To get an e-visa it is necessary to fill in an application on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia not earlier than 40 days and later than four days before the planned trip.

🔴 The e-visa furnished is valid for 60 days from the date of issue and allows tourists to stay on the territory of Russia for 16 days.

🔴 A digital photo and a scan of the information page of the passport are needed to apply for an e-visa.

🔴 It will allow travel on a guest, business, or tourist visit as well as to participate in scientific, cultural, socio-political, economic, and sports events.

🔴 Extension of the e-visa will be carried out by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation or its territorial bodies at the place of migration registration of a foreign citizen at the place of stay, and if there is no migration registration at the place of stay – at the place of actual stay by way of issuing an ordinary (not electronic) visa.

🔴 The status of your application may be as follows: “Draft” (means that the application has been partially completed or has not yet been sent for processing); “Awaiting payment” (means that the payment of the consular fee has not been made or has not yet gone through); “Accepted for processing” (means that the application is being processed); “Returned for editing” (means that incorrect information was found during the processing of the application. You need to make corrections and then resubmit the application for processing); “Processing completed” (decision on the application has been made).

To fill in an e–visa application form and check the e–visa status, applicants can visit this link .

“Launch of e-visa will increase tourist flow. To make the stay of guests from India as comfortable as possible, Moscow is actively working on the improvement of infrastructure for international travelers. We also have close cooperation with Indian companies in the field of tourism, which allows us to expand our tourist offer and tailor it to the needs of our guests,” said Evgeny Kozlov, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee.

Currently, more than 10 weekly flights connect India and Moscow.

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Russia approves new visa regime; indians can now get 6-month tourist visa based on hotel reservation.

Last week, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced that Russia was planning to introduce visa-free travel for citizens of up to 11 'friendly' countries as well as ease entry requirements for citizens of six others.

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Russia Visa

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Russia tourist e-visa fees for citizens of India

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• The Complete Guide To Applying For A Russia Visa For Indians In 2024

15 Nov 2021

It hardly comes as a surprise to us that Russia is high up on every traveler’s bucket list. Its rich history, vibrant culture and famous art and architecture is undoubtedly delightful and engaging in equal measure. The breathtaking scenes of the snow-covered peaks of Mountain Elbrus and the mesmerizing natural valley of geysers in Kamchatka leave a vivid impression on your mind. If you’re planning to visit the country and are confused about how to get a Russia visa for Indians, allow us to take you through the quick and easy process.

Russia Visa For Indians

A Russia visa for Indians should be applied for by the citizens of India who are planning to visit the country for holidays or sightseeing. The longest period of stay on a tourist visa is 30 days. It is not possible to extend a tourist visa. Also, a Russian visa on arrival for Indian passport holders is not available. Please note that the visa is issued based on a supporting invitation letter issued by a tourist company. The R ussia visa fees in Indian rupees is mentioned below:

R ussia visa fees for Indian passport holders (single entry) : INR 1300/- R ussia visa fees for Indian passport holders (d ouble entry): INR 2080/-

Must Read: 11 Romantic Places In Russia

Where To Get It

You can obtain a Russia visa for Indians in any of the Consulates of the Russian Federation located in India. The embassies close their office for national holidays in Russia as well as holidays in India. During that time, you won’t be able to get your passport back. The processing times, procedures, and Russian tourist visa fees for Indian vary from place to place, depending upon which embassy handles your application.

Here’s a complete list of Russian Consulates in India, along with their phone numbers and location:

• Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Republic of India, Embassy Consular Section Address: Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021 Phone: (8-10-91-11) 2611-05-60, 2467-85-64
• Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Mumbai Address: 42, Jagmohandas Marg (Nepean Sea Rd), Mumbai 400036 Phone: (8-10-91-22) 2363-36-27, (8-10-91-22) 2363-36-28
• Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Kolkata Address: 22A, Raja Santosh Road, Alipore, Calcutta 700027 Phone: (8-10-91-33) 2479-70-06
• Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Chennai Address: No 33 (old 14), Santhome High Road, Chennai 600004 Phone: (8-10-91-44) 2498-23-20, 2498-23-30

Suggested Read: Summer In Russia: For Soaking In The Country’s Most Splendid Vibes On Your Next Trip!

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Types Of Russia Visa

Russia visa for Indian nationals can be classified into four categories, tourist visa or visitor visa, business visa, work visa and transit visa.

1. Tourist Visa: A tourist visa is granted to a traveler who wants to visit the country for tourist purposes. If you opt for the single entry visa, it will be valid only for 30 days from the day of issue for the sole purpose of tourism. 2. Business Visa: Business visa is suitable for those people looking to travel temporarily for business purpose in Russia. 3. Work Visa: A Russian work visa for Indian is only allotted if the traveler wishes to travel to the country for the work purpose temporarily. 4. Transit Visa: Russia transit visa is provided to the people who are traveling to a third country but will spend a short stay in Russia before travelling.

Suggested Read:   19 Cool And Unusual Things To Do In Russia That You’ve Never Heard Before!

What Is Tourist Invitation

To apply for a Russia visa for Indians, you require a tourist invitation. Getting a Russia visa for Indian passport involves a tourist service agreement between a foreign citizen and a Russian travel company. This invitation is issued by a travel company which is included in the United Register of Tour Operators. Arranging a tourist voucher at the office of a travel company usually takes less than 10 minutes. There is also a faster way of obtaining it by filling out an online form and making a payment.

A tourist invitation consists of a tourist voucher and a confirmation of your arrival from the receiving company. It is drawn on the letterhead of a travel company. Therefore, its outward appearance can differ greatly. The invitation should be certified with a signature of the senior manager and an appropriate stamp. It also must have the following information for you to get a Russian private visa for Indian:

• Name of the inviting travel company and its reference number
• Full name of Indian citizen and their passport information
• Purpose of visit
• Terms of visit
• Number of entries (single or double)
• Dates of entry and exit
• Cities which you plan to visit

Suggested Read: Russia In March: An All Inclusive Guide When The Snow-Clogged Wheels Turn Again!

Documents Required

Please go through the R ussian tourist visa requirements carefully. The following documents should be submitted to the Russian Embassy or Consulate to obtain a Russia visa for Indians :

• Original passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages.
• Two copies of Russian visa application form, completed and signed.
• Two passport-size photos signed on the back.
• Original tourist invitation along with a copy.
• Proof of funds amounting to living expenses in Russia.
• Confirmed return ticket.

Further Read: 8 Compelling Reasons To Go Witness Snowfall In Russia In Winter

Russia, the world’s largest country, is a conglomeration of idyllic villages and cities throbbing with history and culture. It is an year-round destination. The snow-dusted cities of St. Petersburg and Moscow in the winter season will offer you several avenues for adventure and photography. In summer, you can go sightseeing in St. Petersburg and admire the baroque architecture of palaces. Apply for a Russia visa for Indians at the earliest and once you get it, book your vacation in Russia with TravelTriangle.

Disclaimer : Some images are for representation purposes only. TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Russia Visa For Indians

Is biometric data mandatory for the travelers visiting Russia?

Applicants applying for a Schengen visa have to appear in person in order to provide biometric data which includes fingerprints and photograph. This biometric data will be valid for 5 years. Children under the age of 12 do not have to go through this process for procuring a Russian tourist visa for Indians.

Do students have a different visa requirement for Russia Visa application?

Students travelling to Russia for education will have the Russian visa for Indian citizens valid till the duration of the education. In case, the student is travelling to Russia for exams or study are required to show related documents along with details of the place they’ll be studying or giving their exams.

Do I need to carry forex in Russia?

It is advisable to convert Indian currency to Russian ruble. You can also buy Forex online with Thomas Cook and get it delivered at your home.

Can a third party collect my visa from Russia Consulate?

No, a third party is not allowed to collect visa. However, there are certain exemptions like an immediate family member like parents or children can visit the office and get the visa done on behalf of the concerned person.

Do Indian citizens need a visa for Russia?

Visa to Russia for Indian citizens can be acquired from the consulate or an embassy of Russia. Indian nationals can either get a private, tourist, or business visa depending on their purpose of visit. The invitation to Russia for the citizens of India must be issued by the country.

How do Indians get a Russian visa?

To have a valid passport, set the itinerary, get a letter of invitation or visa support, fill out the visa application form, print the form, sign it, attach a photo, and take all of the documents to the Russian Visa Center, collect your passport and have travel insurance.

Can Indians get a visa on arrival in Russia?

All foreign nationals must register by providing their passport and the migration card to the hosting organization within 7 days of arriving in Russia. Indians need to pay INR 2, 480 for a single entry common tourist visa to Russia.

Is Moscow safe for Indian tourists?

Yes, Moscow is a safe place for people and tourists. They don’t bother anyone and they mind their work. you need to be clear of the dodgy areas, however. The places like Moscow and St. Petersburg are pretty safe and they are major tourist attractions too.

How much does the Russian visa cost?

The total cost of a tourist visa at the Russian Embassy or Consulate is $198. There are $160 for consular taxes, $38 for administrative fees, $18 for the letter of invitation. The total is $216 per visa per single entry visa for a person.

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Russia starts issuing e-visas to Indian visitors from today. Here's how to apply

The e-visa can be used just like any other regular visa, eliminating the need to check with embassies or any other associations.

Starting August 1, Russia has started issuing electronic visa (e-visa) to Indian passport holders that helps visitors get travel approval faster for diverse purposes such as business trips, guest visits, and tourism. The e-visa can be used just like any other regular visa, eliminating the need to check with embassies or any other associations.

Here is all you need to know about Russia e-visas: 

• The e-visa will have a validity of 60 days, allowing visitors to stay in Russia for up to 16 days per visit. 
• The application process is expected to be faster, with a maximum processing time of four days and a $40 consular fee.
• An e-visa is an electronic and biometric visa that gives a passport holder the same rights as a regular visa.

How to apply: 

• Visit the official website
• Click on the option that says apply for tourist visa
• It will take you to the page which has all the information regarding the same

Russia's decision to extend the e-visa facility to citizens of 52 countries, including China, India, and African nations, comes amid a significant decline in foreign tourists from Western countries due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Official figures indicate a 40 percent drop in foreign tourists visiting Russia, plummeting from 290,000 in 2021 to 190,000 in 2022.

The move to attract tourists and business travelers from new markets is evident as Moscow seeks to forge stronger ties with China, India, and African nations. By streamlining the visa application process and making it more convenient, Russia aims to entice Indian tourists, offering them a hassle-free way to explore the country.

Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine over a year ago, which has killed thousands and displaced millions, Moscow has turned to China, India and African nations, trying to seek closer ties.

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The dos and don'ts of visiting Russia for the first time

Sep 24, 2021 • 6 min read

These top tips can help you make the most of your visit to Russia © MarinaDa / Shutterstock

The world’s largest country beguiles and fascinates with its world-class art, epic landscapes and multifaceted society. You may also find that perseverance  and a sense of humour will go a long way in enriching your first-time Russian travel experience. From the things you absolutely must do before you travel to the things we recommend that you steer clear of once you're there, here are some top tips for avoiding common pitfalls when visiting  Russia .

DO apply for a visa early and register on arrival

Visas must be applied for in advance by all visitors. How you do that varies depending on your nationality and where in Russia you are traveling to. Travelers from many countries, including the UK and US, need to apply in-person at an embassy or consulate and provide biometric data. An e-visa may be an option for passport-holders from 52 countries, which include many EU travelers, as well as those from China, India, Japan, Singapore, and some Middle Eastern countries. However these are temporarily suspended due to COVID-19.  Check with your local Russian embassy or consulate for confirmation, or get up-to-date information here . 

You can apply at the last moment, but it may cost you a fortune. Start the application process at least a month before your trip and consider using a specialist travel agency to arrange visas and make key transport bookings. Every visitor to Russia should have their visa registered within seven days of arrival, excluding weekends and public holidays. The obligation to register is with your hotel or hostel, or landlord, friend or family if you’re staying in a private residence. Also keep in mind that your visa entry and exit dates will be written according to European calendar convention (day/month/year) as opposed to the American style, so don't get mixed up or over-stay your visa. 

DO check the events calendar

During major holidays – the first week in January (between New Year’s Day and Orthodox Christmas) and the first week or two of May (around Labour Day, or May Day, and Victory Day) – Moscow and St Petersburg empty out. Despite this, both cities are festive during these times, with parades, concerts and other events, but museums and other institutions may have shortened hours or be shut altogether. May to September is the best time to visit St Petersburg but mid-June is when the city is irresistible, with the White Nights revelry at its peak.

DO dress up for a night out

We can’t guarantee you’ll make it past Moscow’s "face control" (the term comes from clubs trying to "save face" by only letting in patrons who meet their image standards) but you can better your chances of getting in to the top clubs by making a sartorial effort – high heels and skirts for women, all black for men. Russians also make an effort when they go to the theater or a posh restaurant – you should do likewise to fit in.

DO learn the Cyrillic alphabet

Making an effort to familiarize yourself with the Cyrillic alphabet repays tenfold. It will help you decode street and metro signs, maps, timetables and menus, even if you don't know many Russian phrases. While digital tools like the Russian Metro app  and Google Translate make it easier than ever to visit countries where you don't speak or read the language, brushing up beforehand can reduce frustration and endear you to the locals.

Rideshare options such as Taxovichkoff and Yandex Taxi upended the taxi industry in Russia as much as anywhere else. That means less pressure to know the Russian phrases you'd need to hails cabs in the streets, but it still is wise to learn key phrases in case there's a navigation mixup, like the address of your hotel or intersection of your short-term apartment rental. 

DO expect to spend your money

Moscow is one of the most expensive cities in the world and St Petersburg is not a cheap destination either; wallet-thinning shock is common at many restaurants and hotels. As a foreigner you’ll also find yourself paying more than a Russian for some museums – often as much as 10 times the price Russians pay. If you’re a student, flashing your ID can save you money at museums and other institutions.

You can save on dining out a few different ways. Many restaurants offer "business lunches" that are great value and very filling. Several years ago the trend for " anti-cafes " cropped up in larger Russian cities, and there are still a few where you pay by the minute for coffee, biscuits, and a little wi-fi time. 

Food markets  that blend farmers markets and food halls are popular, and are often found in architecturally significant vintage buildings. You can shop for ingredients to cook yourself or sample cuisines from around the world from dozens of  vendor stalls. Many food markets are less expensive than sit-down restaurants and let you try a wider variety of local and international dishes. 

DON’T ask for a mixer with your vodka

Few traditions in Russia are as sacrosanct as the drinking of vodka , and any foreign notions of drinking it with orange juice or tonic are anathema to your average Russian. If you need something to wash it down, you can chase it with a lemon, a pickle or, perhaps, a separate glass of water. Vodka is drunk in swift shots, not sipped. It’s traditional (and good sense) to eat a little something after each shot, so order some vodka snacks too.

DON’T be disrespectful in a church

Working churches are open to everyone, but as a visitor you should take care not to disturb any devotions or offend sensibilities. There's no face control, but women should cover their heads and bare shoulders when entering a church. In some monasteries and churches it’s also required for a woman to wear a skirt – wraps are usually available at the door. Men should remove their hats in church and not wear shorts.

DON’T take photos of government buildings

Be very careful about photographing stations, official-looking buildings and any type of military-security structure – if in doubt, don’t snap! Travelers have been arrested and fined for such innocent behaviour.

DON’T be surprised if you’re stopped by the police

Although new laws were passed in 2011 that ostensibly reconfigured Russia's police and their interactions with the public, it's still wise to carry a photocopy of your passport, visa and registration – not to mention travel documents that indicate how and when you'll return home – and present them when an officer demands to see your documents. You may also see special tourist police near major attractions like the Red Square , who have special training and language skills to assist travelers.

If you're issued a fine, Russian authorities might expect an "unofficial payment" to expedite their service on the spot, as opposed to handling the matter later at the station. Either way, always ask for an official receipt, and consider carrying the phone number for your country's embassy in case matters get more complicated. 

You might also like: How to spend a perfect weekend in Moscow    How to plan and pack for the Trans-Siberian Railway    Beyond the Trans-Siberian: travelling Russia's unexplored northwest by train   

This article was originally published in August 2009.

This article was first published October 2019 and updated September 2021

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Russia to issue 'e-visa' for Indians from August 1. How will it benefit travel?

This e-visa can be used just like any other regular visa, eliminating the need to check with embassies or any other associations..

Russia has introduced an “e-visa” system which will be effective from August 1 this year, to simplify the visa process for travellers visiting the country. A total of 52 countries, including India are eligible, allowing travellers from these nations to apply for the e-visa. The Ministry of Public Security of Russia has established the e-visa system to “simplify visa applications”, as mentioned on the official website of the e-visas.

The e-visa can be used just like any other regular visa, eliminating the need to check with embassies or any other associations. It facilitates entry into the Russian Federation for various purposes, such as business trips, guest visits, tourism, and more.

Also Read | US Citizenship and Immigration Services announces second lottery round for H-1B visas in FY 2024. All you need to know

What is e-visa for russia.

The electronic visa or e-visa, is an electronic and biometric visa that grants the same rights as a regular visa. It remains valid for 60 days, during which the visa holder must enter Russia. Once in the country, the e-visa allows a stay of up to 16 days.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting global travel restrictions, Russia suspended the e-visa service in 2020. However, with the service now resumed, travellers can once again obtain their visas hassle-free for their trips to Russia.

Also Read | Americans would need ‘visa’ for Europe from 2024 onwards, check what has changed

Obtaining a tourist visa will now be much easier and more convenient. There's no need to wait in long queues; instead, you can apply for your tourist e-visa online with just a few clicks. Simply fill out the form and make the payment to complete the process.

Things to remember before applying for Russia's e-visa

-All individuals from foreign countries planning to visit Russia must complete their travel application through an online process.

-Travellers will have to submit their applications at least 72 hours prior to their intended trip to Russia.

-However, individuals holding diplomatic positions or representing international organisations are exempt from the visa requirement.

-Upon submitting the online request, applicants will receive a response via email with one of the following outcomes:

• Approval Granted: If authorised, the traveller's trip is approved, and they will receive their visa upon arrival in Russia from the relevant authorities.
• Travel Not Authorised: In the event of non-authorisation, the traveller must apply for a temporary residence visa at the Embassy of Russia before their travel to the country.
• Pending Authorisation: If the application is still under review, the applicant will receive a final response within 72 hours, and they can track the status of their application via email.

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Authorized Portal for Visa Application to India Indianvisaonline.gov.in

All foreign nationals entering India are required to possess a valid international travel document in the form of a national passport with a valid visa from an Indian Mission/Post or eVisa (Limited Categories) from Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs.

Visa on Arrival for the nationals of Japan, South Korea and UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India) Available at selected Airports

Advisory: Government of India has not authorized any agent or intermediary to charge any fee for facilitation of emergency / express Visa/eVisa. For travel to India a regular/eVisa along with passport is mandatory. Only categories exempted under bilateral arrangments may not need a visa. For persons of Indian origin (all categories), OCI card is mandatory.

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Regular Visa - Diplomatic/Official/Ordinary Passport holders may fill online application and submit at concerned Indian Embassy/Mission in their country. Select Visa Service as Conference Visa and purpose as "To Attend G20 Conference/Meeting" .

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Apply for the Russia Tourist Visa today with us!

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How to Apply: Tourist Visa

Complete our user-friendly online application in just 20 minutes, or feel free to take breaks and return at your convenience.

Move closer to an approved visa with our team of iVisa Experts, who not only review your answers but also provide you with the necessary tools to prepare.

Make use of our feedback and free templates to confidently submit accurate information, and experience a surprisingly stress-free process!

Once government-approved, your visa will be ready for collection, marking the start of your travels.

How to Apply: Embassy Registration

Complete our easy online application and pay with credit card or PayPal

Your embassy will assist you if an emergency (eg. Natural disasters, civil unrest, etc) occur

Why Register with the Embassy

Required information to apply.

Once You Have Registered With Your Embassy Or Consulate, You Will Need To Update Your Data If:

• your contact details change,
• your civil status changes,
• you are going back to your home country.

Learn More: Tourist Visa

What you need to know.

The maximum validity is no more than 30 days per entry.

Your entry type (single, double, or multiple) depends on your travel purpose, and is determined by the Russian Government.

Allowed activities: Tourism, business negotiations and visiting friends and family.

Fee exemptions: Travelers on a cruise or ship entering and staying in Russia for up to 72h. Holders of diplomatic, service, official, and special passports from several countries, business individuals holding an APEC Business Travel Card.

You may need to attend an appointment, but our experts will handle the scheduling. You just need to approve the date and prepare your documents—no need to stress.

Apply online for the Russian Tourist Visa with us today!

Last updated: December 2023

Planning a trip to Russia? The Russian Tourist Visa is an essential step in your travel preparations. iVisa is here to guide you through the process, offering a straightforward and efficient path to obtaining your Russian tourist or business visa.

With our expertise and easy-to-use platform, you can focus on your travel plans while we handle the complexities of visa application. Trust us to simplify your travel documentation needs for the Russian Federation so you can embark on your journey with peace of mind.

What is the Russia Tourist Visa?

The Russian Tourist Visa is a type of travel authorization that allows foreign nationals to visit Russia for tourism and business purposes . The process includes dropping off the supporting documents at the nearest Russian Embassy, and sometimes, an interview must be carried out.

With our expertise and streamlined online platform, you can easily apply for a Russian Tourist Visa from the comfort of your home.

What can I do with the Russia Tourist Visa?

With this visa, you’re allowed to:

• Visit the country for tourism.
• Go on a business trip.
• Visit friends and family.

What can’t I do with the Russia Tourist Visa?

Keep in mind that foreign citizens can’t:

• Reside in the country.
• Establish a business.
• Work, volunteer, or engage in profit-related activities.

If you’re looking to do any of the above activities, apply for the appropriate visa or Russian citizenship on the Russian government website or at your nearest embassy.

Eligibility criteria to apply for the Russia Tourist Visa

To be eligible for this Russian Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

You’re from one of the eligible countries (read more below).

You currently don’t have another valid visa for Russia.

Who must apply for the Russia Tourist Visa?

To find out if you need this visa to enter Russia, use our handy Visa Checker Tool and apply instantly online!

Do children require a visa to visit Russia?

Yes, each minor under 18 must also have a valid visa if they come from an eligible country. Families can apply together by clicking ‘Add another person’ during the online application process.

Who is visa-exempt for Russia?

Visas are not required for the following visitors:

Travelers on a cruise or ship entering and staying in Russia for up to 72 hours.

Holders of diplomatic, service, official, and special passports from several countries.

Business travelers holding an APEC Business Travel Card.

Russia Tourist Visa validity: How long is the Russian visa valid?

Choose from the following validity options:

Russia Tourist Visa - Single Entry: With this visa, you can visit the country once for a stay of up to 30 days. Only citizens of the United States can get Russian visas for a stay of up to 90 days.

Russia Tourist Visa - Multiple Entry: With multiple-entry visas, you can visit the country multiple times within 90 days, for a stay of up to 14 days each time.

It’s ultimately up to the Russian government which validity you’ll receive, as it can depend on nationality and other factors.

Russia Tourist Visa: Required documents

When applying with us today, you only need the following documents to apply:

Passport valid for at least six months from arrival, with two blank visa pages.

Applicant photo.

However, during the application process, we’ll send you a complete list of documents that must be submitted during your government appointment, which typically includes:

Your application form: Completed by us, printed, and signed.

A tourist invitation letter: From a Russian travel agency, hotel, or hostel.

Detailed travel itinerary: Download our free template here!

Two color photos: Not older than 6 months, glued to your application form.

Proof of your financial capability: Stamped or signed bank statements from the last 3 months proving you have enough funds for each day you plan to stay in Russia. This doesn't apply to kids traveling with adult family members.

Accommodation confirmation: Include the contact information. This booking must have been made before the application process.

10 year travel history: Only required if you have visited Russia before.

iVisa tip: We recommend booking with flexible dates in case your application is delayed or rejected.

Proof of return: Such as round-trip flight tickets.

If visiting friends or family: An invitation letter with a copy of their ID or residence permit.

If traveling for business: A confirmed Russia business invitation letter from the relevant institution explaining the purpose of the trip. Also, include a business bank statement.

Travel insurance: That covers you for medical expenses in Russia.

For minors: A birth certificate and a parental consent letter must be included in the application.

We’ll contact you by email if we need more information or documentation for your Russian Visa application!

How to apply for the Russia Tourist Visa

With our simplified application and constant guidance, you’ll be surprised at how stress-free this process is:

Step 1: Fill out your information on our simplified visa application form on our website or the iVisa app . Always double-check all information to avoid errors.

Step 2: Select your preferred processing time and pay the processing and visa fees securely online using a debit or credit card, Venmo, or PayPal.

After the payment, we’ll send you a complete document checklist, instructions to guide you through the next steps, and tips to ace your interview (if applicable).

• Step 3: Upload the required documents, bring them to the visa interview, and await your visa approval!

Russia Tourist Visa costs and processing times

The Russia Tourist Visa fees can vary based on factors such as the applicant's nationality, type of visa, and the number of intended entries.

We currently offer one processing option for the Russia Tourist Visa:

• Standard processing: This takes up to 30 days and costs USD $218.99 , excluding the government visa fees.

Do I need the Russia Tourist Visa to transit through the country?

If you're transiting through the country, you require a valid visa for the final destination . In addition, the following applies:

If you're changing terminals at a Russian airport and have to go through immigration control, you must get a Russian transit visa before you travel.

If you're staying in the Airport Transit zone and not going through Russian immigration, you don't need a transit visa.

Find out more about getting a transit visa by contacting the nearest Russian Embassy or Consulate.

Russia entry requirements or restrictions

There are no COVID-19 requirements for entering Russia.

Insider tip

All Russian visas must be registered upon arrival in the Russian Federation within 7 business days of your arrival. This applies if you are staying 7 days or more. When you arrive in Russia please ensure that your Russian visa and Migration card are stamped at the border. This stamp is important for Russian visa registration purposes.

For a complete guide on arrival to Russia, check out our Moscow Vnukovo Airport Guide

Differences between the Russia Tourist Visa and Russia eVisa

The Russian Tourist Visa and the Russian eVisa differ in several key aspects, including the application process, duration, and usage. Here's a breakdown of the main differences:

Russia eVisa : Ideal for brief visits, this electronic visa simplifies entry into Russia for eligible travelers. Complete your application online without any need for physical embassy visits. The Russia eVisa is typically valid for short stays of up to 16 days.

Russia Visa: For longer visits or broader travel purposes, consider the regular Russia Visa. This traditional visa accommodates extended stays and various travel objectives. The application process is more involved, requiring a visit to a Russian Consulate or Embassy and submission of a comprehensive set of documents.

In essence, your choice between the Russia eVisa and the regular Russia Visa will depend on factors like nationality, the purpose of your visit, and how long you plan to stay.

Need more info about the Russia Tourist Visa?

Do you have questions about the application for the Russia Tourist Visa or another document? Contact our customer support team via online chat or email us at [email protected] for assistance.

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What are ivisa's accreditations and recognitions, when should i apply for the russia tourist visa, how long does it take to apply for the russia tourist visa form, what documents do i need to apply for the russia tourist visa.

• Valid passport.
• Applicant’s photo.

What documents do I need to bring to the Russia Tourist Visa appointment?

• Your application form. Completed, printed, and signed.
• A tourist invitation letter from a Russian travel agency, hotel or hostel.
• Detailed travel itinerary. Download our free template!
• Two color photos, not older than 6 months, glued to your application form.
• Passport. Valid for 6 months after visa expiry with 2 blank pages. Include a copy of previous visas, if any.
• Proof of your financial capability. Stamped/signed 3-month bank statements proving you have enough funds for each day you plan to stay in Russia. This doesn't apply to kids traveling with grown-up family members.
• Accommodation confirmation and their contact information. This booking must have been made before the application process.
• Proof of return to your country, such as return or round-trip tickets.
• If a minor , you'll need parental consent.
• If visiting friends or family, a confirmed invitation letter with a copy of their ID or residence permit.
• If a student , a recent, signed, and dated, letter from the institution specifying your enrollment.
• If traveling for business , a confirmed invitation letter from the Russian institution explaining the purpose of the trip. And, a business bank statement.
• For medical travel , a certificate from the Russian institution confirming treatment availability and financial capability.
• Health insurance with enough coverage in the area.

Can I get the Russia Tourist Visa for free?

Unfortunately not. There is a government fee you will need to pay. Visa costs for a Russia Tourist Visa application can vary based on factors such as the applicant's nationality, type of visa, and the number of intended entries.

iVisa currently offers one processing option for Russia Tourist Visa:

• Standard processing: This takes up to 30 days and costs $193.99, excluding the government visa fees.

Are there any COVID-19 requirements to enter Russia?

Who can i talk to if i have more questions, where can i read more.

• How to get a Russia tourist visa
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• Russia Tourist Visa for Tunisian citizens
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Other Available Visas: Russia?

• eVisa Application
• Tourist Invitation Letter
• Tourist Invitation Letter Application
• Business Invitation Letter
• Business Invitation Letter Application
• Russia E Visa
• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: http://www.gov.ru