Getting one is not difficult. All you need to do is go to your local Russian embassy and apply for one. However, before you apply you will need to have an invitation letter. iVisa can make things easier for you by helping you get your invitation letter quickly.
What is the easiest way to get a visa to Russia?
If you want to travel to Russia, you need a Russian visa. In order to get a Russian visa, the first thing you need is an invitation (also known as visa support letter). After that, you can apply for the visa at a Russian consulate either by yourself or through a local travel agent (usually for an extra fee).
Is it hard for an American to get a Russian visa?
Applying for a Russia visa in the US is not as hard as it may seem. In fact, the process is almost identical to applying from other countries in the world. If you are an American, or applying for a Russia visa in USA, follow the steps listed below: Get the Invitation (Visa Support).
How difficult is it to get a visa to Russia?
- Complete the Russian visa online application form. The application form for a Russia visa for US citizens is available at kdmid.ru. ...
- Collect the Russia visa required documents for US citizens. Proceed with collecting the required documents for a Russian visa. ...
- Apply at a Russian Visa Processing Center in the US. ...
- Wait for the processing of your visa. ...
Who needs a visa to enter Russia?
Please be advised that the visas may be issued only for the U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries, who possess U.S. Green Cards. All U.S. nationals who wish to enter Russia for an excursion, sightseeing, cultural events, or other forms of tourism need a Russian visa.
What is the Russia E-visa?
A Russian E-visa is an electronic visa which allows eligible citizens to travel to a specific region in Russia for a short stay. At the moment, it...
How do I apply for an electronic visa for Russia?
Eligible citizens are currently able to apply for an electronic visa Russia for a specific region through a simple online application. Applicants a...
Who is eligible for a Russia eVisa?
Citizens of 54 eligible countries are able to apply for the 3 Russia eVisa types. Citizens of an additional 5 countries are also able to apply for...
What ports of entry can I use with the Russia eVisa?
The ports of entry that can be used with a Russian eVisa depends on which region-specific electronic visa the traveler obtains.
What ports of entry can I use with the Russia E-visa to Saint Petersburg and Leningrad?
The following ports of entry can be used with the Saint Petersburg and Leningrad eVisa: By air: Pulkovo airport By land: Ivangorod, Torfyanovka,...
What ports of entry can I use with the Russia E-visa to Kaliningrad?
The following ports of entry can be used with the Kaliningrad eVisa: By air: Kaliningrad (Khrabrovo) By land: Bagrationovsk, Gusev, Mamanovo (Gzh...
What ports of entry can I use with the Russia E-visa to the Far East?
The following ports of entry can be used with the eVisa for the Russian Far East: By Air: Anadyr (Ugolny), Blagoveschensk, Vladivostok (Knevichy),...
What do I need to submit an application for the Russia electronic visa?
In order to submit an application for a Russia electronic visa, it is necessary to have the following: Passport valid for at least 6 months from th...
Do I need a Russia E-visa for all my children? Should I include them on my application?
Yes, all travelers from E-visa- eligible countries, no matter their age, are required to have an individually approved visa for Russia to travel to...
What are the main types of Russian visas?
Tourist Visa - e.g.: tourism, sightseeing; Business Visa - e.g.: conferences, business negotiations; E-Visa - e.g.: short-term visits; Work Visa -...
How can I get a visa to Russia?
To obtain a Russian visa you need: Fill in our online order form and get a Visa invitation to Russia Refer to our Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Ru...
Do Americans need Visa to Russia?
Yes. A required document to enter Russia for a citizen of the USA is a visa.
Where to apply for a Russian visa in USA?
You can obtain a visa to Russia in any of the Consulates of the Russian Federation located in USA. See the list of Russian Consulates in USA, along...
How to apply for a tourist invitation to visit Russia?
A tourist invitation can be issued by a travel company which is registered in the Federal Register of the Tour Operators and has its reference numb...
How long is tourist visa for Russia valid?
A Tourist Visa is issued for citizens of the USA for a maximum period of 30 days. Due to the simplification of the visa regime between Russia and t...
When will Russia get an E visa?
An approved E-visa for Russia allows the holder entry to the designated territory at select air and seaports, and certain land border checkpoints, in the relevant region. It is expected that a Russia-wide E-visa will also be introduced in 2021 by the Russian Government.
Why is Russia using electronic visas?
The Russian government has implemented the electronic visa system in order to expedite the process of applying for a visa to travel to select regions in the country.
How long is an E visa valid in Russia?
E-visas for Russia are valid for 30 days to enter the territory from the date of approval.
Where is Kaliningrad E visa?
The online Kaliningrad visa allows travelers to visit the Kaliningrad Oblast, a Russian exclave located between Lithuania and Poland on the Baltic Sea.
When will Russia introduce E visas?
It is expected that a Russia-wide E-visa will also be introduced in 2021 by the Russian Government. Information about this electronic visa type will be published on this site once available.
When does an evisa expire?
For example, if the traveler passes through Russian border control upon entry at 8:00 pm on the first day of a month, then they will need to have exited the territory by 11:59 pm on the 8th day of the same month , when the eVisa validity will expire.
Do you need a visa to travel to Russia?
The visa policy of Russia states that it is not necessary to provide any additional supporting documents, such as hotel booking confirmations or a tourist invitation, for an E-visa for Russia to be approved.
Where to apply for a Russian visa?
IV. Applicants for Russian visas may apply directly to the Consular Division of the Embassy of the Russian Federation.
How long is a Russian visa valid?
In accordance with the Agreement between the Russian Federation and the United States of America on the simplification of visa formalities for nationals of the Russian Federation and nationals of the United States of America, the US citizens shall as a rule be issued multiple-entry business, private, humanitarian and tourist visas that are valid for three years (36 months) from the date of issue of the visa.
How long does a passport last after expiration date?
The passport of the applicant, as a rule, must be valid for at least full six months after the visa expiry date.
What to do after receiving a visa?
After receiving the visa, please check all the data indicated in it and, if necessary, return it to the Consular Division for corrections. The Consular Division will not be responsible for any mistakes in the visas, which were not brought to our attention prior to departure from the US.
When does visa processing start?
Visa processing starts only after the Consular Division has collected all necessary documents.
What form do I need to apply for a visa for a non-US citizen?
Non-US citizens should also provide proof of legality of their long-term stay in the USA (US Resident Alien status, form I-94) when applying for a visa.
What is a multiple entry visa?
A multiple-entry visa allows subsequent trips with a purpose other than what was initially indicated in the visa. Thus, the new purpose of each trip and information on the new hosting organization must be indicated in the Migration Card form in order to clear Russian customs and border control.
What is a tourist visa in Russia?
Tourist visa or visitor visa . This kind of visa is for visiting Russia for sightseeing and general tourism, but can also be for short business meetings or participating in auctions or exhibitions.
When will the Russian visa end?
Most likely it won’t be lifted until November 2021. However, some exceptions have been made over the last few months.
How long does a Russian passport last?
A valid travel passport of your country with at least two blank pages designated for visas and expiring no sooner than 6 months after the end date of the visa you are applying for. We highly recommend to check the expiration date of your passport before applying for a Russian visa. Also, please make sure that you have signed your passport.
What is required to get a visa for a child under 18?
If you are applying for a visa for a child under the age of 18, a copy of the child’s birth certificate is required along with copies of both parent’s passports and marriage certificate when applicable. For non-U.S. citizen applicants, proof of having medical travel insurance is required.
What age can a non-Russian citizen travel to Russia?
According to the current rules a close relative is a spouse or their children under the age of 18. An invitation for a private visa.
Can an American citizen travel to Russia?
This is only possible for American citizens when the Russian citizen has a valid Russian internal passport and there is a stamp with residence registration in Russia in the internal passport. Both requirements, the internal passport and stamped residence registration, are necessary to obtain a multiple entry visa.
Do you need a copy of your Russian passport for a double entry visa?
There are no requirements about the amount of coverage. You can choose minimum coverage options. A copy of your airline ticket is not required for a Russian visa, unless you are requesting a double entry visa or you need urgent processing of your visa.
When will Russia be available for e-visa?
According to the Government of the Russian Federation, e-visa processing for the citizens of USA shall become available starting January 1st, 2021. We recommend citizens of USA obtaining a common tourist visa for a stay up to 30 days. Get Russian Visa Invitation.
How long does an American work visa last in Russia?
An Invitation for a Work Visa is issued on a special form of the FMS for a period of 90 days. Within this period an American citizen should enter Russia and fulfill the migration registration. After this his/her Work Visa may be extended for a period of the contract but no longer than a year.
What is an invitation for a private visa?
An Invitation for a Private Visa will be issued only on a special form from the FMS with an individual number. It should have all passport details of an American applicant. Information on the inviting party, terms of visa and number of entries. The issuing of this Invitation takes a certain amount of time during which all necessary investigations take place as to whether there are any previous convictions, expulsions or administrative violations of the applicant. If any such violations are found the applicant will be denied in an Invitation.
What is required to get a tourist visa at a consulate?
When issuing a tourist visa at a consulate, a foreigner may be required to demonstrate the purchase of air tickets and to confirm a booking at a hotel for the period specified in the invitation, as well as an insurance policy.
What is an e-visa?
An electronic visa (hereinafter referred to as "e-visa") is a new type of a visa document. A visa invitation to Russia is not required for obtaining an e-visa. To obtain an e-visa to Russia use our “E-visa to Russia” service. An e-visa can be only single-entry.
How long is a private visa valid?
Private visa can be single or double-entry. It is issued for a maximum period of 3 months (90 days).
What is a business visa in Russia?
Business visa suits the foreign applicants who are concerned in exploring business opportunities of Russia.
ON RESUMING VISA ISSUANCE
Start June 28, 2021 Russian consulate in the U.S.A. resumes the issuance of visa of all categories (including tourist visas). Please be advised that the visas may be issued only for the U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries, who possess U.S. Green Cards.
Russian Business Visa Application Requirements
All travelers to Russia on official or private business visits require a business visa.
Russian Private Visa Application Requirements
A Russian private visa is one of the various visas issued by the Russian Federation for foreigners who wish to enter Russia for personal reasons like visiting friends and family. According to Russian legislation, foreigners who wish to apply for a private Russian visa must have an invitation.
FAQ – Visa For Russia
One of the favorite destinations of travelers and tourists around the world is Russia. Russia is a beautiful country located on a vast expanse of land with many attractions for people all over the world. While Russia welcomes some nationalities into its soil without a visa, one needs to have an invitation to apply.
Where do US citizens apply for a Russian visa?
US citizens need to submit their Russia visa application at the Russian visa service in the American state they live.
How long does it take to get a visa for Russia?
The average processing time for a Russia Visa is 10 days. Yet, the processing can take from seven to 20 working days. Those in a hurry can apply for expedited processing, which takes three working days. A higher fee will be charged to those that want to benefit from the expedited visa application processing.
What is visa support?
Visa support. This is an invitation to travel to Russia. It may be an invitation issued by a hotel, friends, a business etc., depending on the purpose of your trip.
How many Americans visited Russia in 2018?
United States citizens are among the top twenty most frequent visitors to Russia. In 2018, 337,395 Americans traveled to Russia marking an increase of 15% from the previous year. However, traveling to Russia from the US is not an easy thing to do. Due to the political relations between the US and Russia, both countries have introduced many ...
Where to get invitation for visa in Russia?
Get the Invitation (Visa Support). The Invitation is the basement of your application. You should get this document in collaboration with your host in Russia. The host may be a friend, a family member, an employer etc. If you are planning to travel to Russia for tourism purposes, you can get your invitation from a travel agency or a hotel.
Is it hard to get a visa for Russia?
Applying for a Russia visa in the US is not as hard as it may seem. In fact, the process is almost identical to applying from other countries in the world.
Is there a transit area at the Russian Federation airport?
You are flying with an international airline and changing flights in the Russian Federation. There is one sole condition that this airport has a transit area.
How to get a visa for Russia?
Basil’s Cathedral are some of the more well known landmarks, but there are plenty of other unique attractions you can enjoy. Keep in mind most visitors need a visa to enter Russia. Getting one is not difficult. All you need to do is go to your local Russian embassy and apply for one. However, before you apply you will need to have an invitation letter. iVisa can make things easier for you by helping you get your invitation letter quickly. All you need to do is apply online and you can have your invitation letter in as little as 30 minutes.
How long does it take to get a Russian visa??
A Russian visa can be processed in 9 days for standard processing. We also have rush and super rush pricing options available for a higher fee.
How long does it take to apply for a Russia Tourist Invitation Letter?
Applying online with iVisa will take you less than 10 minutes. Then, shortly after we will let you know of the status of your application by email.
How much does the Russia Tourist Visa Cost?
The Russia tourist visa costs $160.00 which does not include the administrative fees or letter of invitation letter fee. Please Note: there may be cheaper Russia Tourist visas available depending on your nationality. Enter your nationality into the visa checker to see all available visa types.
Is it safe to use iVisa to get my Russia Invitation Letter?
Many people think that information online leaks and that it can get into the wrong hands. However, that is not the case with our services. We provide maximum safety for your personal data, confidentiality, and we invest a lot in the security of our database. Your personal information could not be safer. You can check what hundreds of happy customers say about us here.
What is the difference between a Tourist Invitation Letter and a Russian Visa?
The Tourist Invitation Letter is a document that must be presented along with your visa application. It is not an actual visa, but a document that the Russian government requires for you to apply for an actual visa.
Does the Invitation letter guarantee that a visa will be issued?
No, it is merely a document that allows you to apply for the actual visa. The approval of your visa will be at the discretion of the Russian government.
How long can you stay in Russia without a visa?
Passengers of Cruise Ships and Ferries at St. Petersburg and Vladivostok are permitted to stay in Russia for 72 hours without a visa when accompanied by a tour operator licensed by Russian authorities. Ferry schedules may not permit visitors to stay more than two nights without exceeding the 72-hour limit. If you plan to sightsee on your own, you must have a tourist visa. A visa is also required if you plan to depart Russia by another mode of transportation.
How long can you be detained in Russia?
You can be arrested, detained, fined, deported and banned for 5 years or more if you are found to have violated Russian immigration law.
What are administrative violations in Russia?
Traffic Laws: Russian authorities have been known to consider traffic or parking infractions as “administrative violations” that provide a sufficient basis for deportation and/or denial of entry back to Russia at a later date.
What are the penalties for violating Russian laws?
If you violate these laws, even unknowingly, you may be arrested, fined, imprisoned, or expelled and may be banned from re-entering Russia.
What are the terrorist groups in Russia?
Terrorism: Terrorist groups, transnational and local terrorist organizations, and lone actors inspired by extremist ideology and messaging continue plotting possible attacks in Russia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas
Do you need a Russian transit visa?
Travelers must have a Russian transit visa if they plan to transit through Russia by land en route to a third country or if they transfer to another airport. Travelers must possess a Russian transit visa in addition to a Belarusian visa if their travel route either to or from Belarus goes through Russia.
Does Russia allow dual citizenship?
Russia enforces special restrictions on dual U.S.-Russian nationals and may refuse to acknowledge dual nationals’ U.S. citizenship, including denying access to U.S. consular assistance and preventing their departure from Russia.
What determines what type of visa is required?
The purpose of your intended travel and other facts will determine what type of visa is required under U.S. immigration law. As a visa applicant, you will need to establish that you meet all requirements to receive the category of visa for which you are applying.
Is the US consulate in Russia suspended?
All consular services at the U.S. Consulates in Yekaterinburg and Vladivostok remain in suspended status.
