If you need a visa for your visit to Russia, you'll likely need one of these types:
- Tourist (for single or double entry, valid up to 30 days)
- Business (for single or double entry, valid up to three months; multiple entries, valid for one year)
- Private (valid up to three months, based only on a private invitation from a relative or friend)
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).
Do US citizens need a visa to visit Russia?
Yes. A required document to enter Russia for a citizen of the USA is a visa. A visa to Russia from USA can be received in the consulates and embassies of the Russian Federation. When applying for a visa an American citizen should give in an Invitation, sent by an individual or a juridical person from Russia. The visa applicants should also fill in an application form and pay the consulate fee.
Do you need a passport to go to Russia?
You dont need a passport just to travel within Russia but you will need it to buy plane or train tickets or check in a hotel. So if you are traveling by car or by bus and plan to stay in your friends place any ID will suffice (in case of car it must be a driver license ofc).
Which countries do not require visa for Russia?
Where Can Russians Travel Without a Visa?CountryAllowed stayJamaica90 daysKazakhstan90 daysSouth Korea60 daysKyrgyzstanIndefinite period78 more rows
Which countries need visa for Russia?
Visa policy for citizens of foreign countriesCitizenshipDo foreign citizens need a visa to enter Russia?CommentsAmerican SamoaVisa requiredAnguillaVisa requiredAngolaVisa requiredup to 90 days without visas for diplomatic and official passportsAndorraNo visa requiredup to 90 days of uninterrupted stay of every 180111 more rows•Feb 15, 2022
Do I need visa for Moscow?
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.
How much is a visa to Russia?
$160 / $160Visa Fees At A GlanceNUMBER OF ENTRIESCONSULAR FEE REGULAR* / EXPEDITED**Single Entry**$160 / $160Double Entry**$160 / $1603 Year Multiple Entry **$160 / $160
How long does it take to get a Russian visa?
It takes between 4 working days and 6 weeks to get your Russian visa depending upon the type that you need. The cost also varies according to the visa's type and how quickly you need it.
Where can Americans travel without a visa?
The following countries do not require that US citizens traveling for tourist purposes have a visa....North America and Central America.CountryLength of Stay without Tourist VisaBelize1 monthCosta Rica90 daysEl Salvador3 monthsGuatemala90 days5 more rows
How do I get a Russian tourist visa?
The application process for a Russian Visa is as follows:Get the Invitation (Visa Support). ... Complete the online application form. ... Collect the required documents. ... Apply in Person at a Russian Consulate / Russian Visa Processing Center. ... Get the immigration card. ... Register your visa.
Which country gives free visa?
List of Countries where Visa is not Required for Indian CitizensBhutanNepalHaiti (for up to 90 days)MicronesiaEcuadorDominicaVanuatuSvalbardSaint Kitts and NevisGrenada (for up to 90 days)6 more rows
Is it safe to travel to Russia right now?
Avoid all travel to Russia due to the impacts of the armed conflict with Ukraine, including limited flight options and restrictions on financial transactions. If you are in Russia, you should leave now while commercial means are still available.
Can I use my credit card in Russia?
Russians can use their new cards only while traveling abroad, as Mastercard and VISA cards issued in Uzbekistan or any other foreign country cannot be used inside Russia. Russian officials also remind people to inform the tax authorities about their foreign bank accounts.
Can I apply for Russian visa online?
In order to apply for a unified e-visa, it is necessary to submit an application from your personal account on the specialized website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia or through the Russian Foreign Ministry mobile application.
Can you visit St Petersburg without a visa?
Thanks to the law that allows cruise ship passengers to visit St. Petersburg without visas, it is also possible to take the ferry from Helsinki or Tallinn and stay in St. Petersburg for up to 72 hours without a Russian visa.
Does Indian need visa for Russia?
Overview. Tourist Visa is required in case you enter Russian Federation for tourism purposes. Tourist visa can be valid for up to 30 days and can be issued for single or double entry. Dates of validity of the visa will correspond with the dates mentioned on your tourist confirmation.
Is Russia visa free for UAE residents?
Russia tourist visa is not required for citizens of United Arab Emirates for a stay up to 30 days.
Do I need a visa to visit Russia from UK?
Do UK Nationals Need a Visa for Russia? Yes, UK passport holders need a visa to travel to Russia. Every British national will be asked to present a visa at the Russian port of entry. A visa is required even for transiting.
Which passport is the strongest in the world?
Japan has the world's most powerful passport - providing hassle-free entry to 193 countries. Just one country short, Singapore and South Korea are tied in second place, according to the latest Henley Passport Index from Henley & Partners, an immigration consultancy.
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...
How long do you have to register a visa in Russia?
Travelers who spend more than seven days in Russia must register their visa and migration card through their sponsor (at the local Federal Migration Service (FMS)) or landlord (at the local post office or FMS). Travelers staying in a hotel must register their visa and migration card with their hotel within one day.
How long does it take to get a visa to leave Russia?
A valid visa is necessary to depart Russia. Travelers who overstay their visa’s validity, even for one day , will be prevented from leaving until their sponsor intervenes and requests a visa extension on their behalf. Russian authorities may take up to 20 calendar days to authorize an exit visa, during which time the traveler will be stranded in Russia at his or her own expense. The ability of the Embassy or Consulates General to intervene in these situations is extremely limited.
What is the Russian law?
Under Russian law, every foreign traveler must have a Russian-based sponsor, which could be a hotel, tour company, relative, employer, university, etc. Even if a visa was obtained through a travel agency in the United States, there is always a Russian legal entity whose name is indicated on the visa and who is considered to be the legal sponsor. Russian law requires that the sponsor must apply on the traveler’s behalf for replacement, extension, or changes to a Russian visa. U.S. citizens are strongly advised to ensure that they have contact information for the visa sponsor prior to arrival in Russia, as the sponsor’s assistance will be essential to resolve any visa problems.
Where to go if you are in Moscow but do not know who your visa sponsor is?
If you are in Moscow but you do not know who your visa sponsor is, or if the sponsor is located elsewhere in Russia and you cannot travel to the region, please go to the FMS of Russia, 4 Verkhnyaya Radishchevskaya St., Bldg 1., tel. (495) 698-0078, Metro Taganskaya.
What are the quotas for Russian work visas?
Work Visas: There are quotas on invitations to foreigners to enter Russia in order to work. These quotas are established by territorial agencies in the regions and are approved annually by the Russian Government. According to the law, quotas take into account the demographic situation in the relevant region of Russia and its ability to accommodate foreign nationals. This is theoretically based on the principle that priority should be given to the use of domestic labor. The prospective employer must initiate the application process for this type of visa at the FMS. Prospective employers who hire foreigners must also receive permission from the local branch of the FMS. The FMS office then issues the foreigner a document confirming his legal employment. Please note that Russian authorities may require tests for drugs and infectious diseases for holders of work visas.
How many dates are there in a Russian visa?
A Russian entry/exit visa has two dates written in the European style (day/month/year) as opposed to the American style (month/day/year). The first date indicates the earliest day a traveler may enter Russia; the second date indicates the date by which a traveler must leave Russia. A Russian visa is only valid for those exact dates ...
What are the different types of Russian visas?
There are seven basic types of Russian visas: Commercial, Tourist, Student, Guest, Diplomatic, Transit, and visas for entry into the Russian Federation for the purpose of requesting asylum. Russian visas are issued only upon presentation of the appropriate invitation (tourist vouchers or hotel reservations will often suffice) from a Russian source. Only Russian individuals and agencies (hereafter referred to as sponsors) can invite Americans to visit Russia. In doing so, the sponsor takes full responsibility for both the welfare and actions of their American guests.
What is a business visa in Russia?
Business visa suits the foreign applicants who are concerned in exploring business opportunities of Russia.
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.
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.
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 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.
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).
Can a US citizen be refused a visa?
However such an investigation would be done by the consulate where a USA citizen applies for a visa. If he/she is found to have incurred any penalties during any previous visits, he/she will be refused a visa. Thus an invitation from a travel company does not guarantee you will be granted a visa.
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 documents are needed for a Russian visa?
These documents, known as the Standard Requirements for a Russian Visa, are as follows: Visa Application Form. Make sure your answers are correct and then print the form. Valid Passport.
How long is a passport valid in Russia?
These criteria are: Your passport must be valid for at least six more months after the expiration of the visa you are applying for. Your passport must have at least two blank pages, which do not have to be consecutive. A recent passport size photo. Make sure this photo complies with the requirements for a Russia Visa photo.
What is an autobiography in Russia?
A written request from a legal person, company, organization, enterprise, institution, or their branches, state and local authorities, organizing committees, of the Russian Federation. If you are a citizen of Australia traveling to Russia for business purposes, you are required to submit a detailed autobiography in the Russian language ...
Does multiple entry visa cover Russia?
The list of medical services that the insurance covers, including repatriation in case of death. The geographical area coverage the insurance covers. It must include Russia. Invitation issued by the company in Russia.
How long can you stay in Russia without a visa?
According to the Russian Federation law, cruise or ferry passengers are the only tourists visiting Russia who are allowed to stay on the territory of the Russian Federation without a visa for up to 72 hours.
Can you travel on a cruise ship without a visa?
This visa-free exception applies, only to persons who travel within an organized group and do not intend to explore the cities on their own. Cruise passengers are free to use any authorized local travel agencies ( not only cruise ship tour companies) for visa-free shore tours.
Can you disembark in Russia?
You may disembark independently if you have a valid Russian visa.
Visa Free Countries for Russian Citizens
If you are a Russian citizen, you can enter visa-free in the following countries:
What Documents Do I Need to Enter a Visa-Free Country?
You need to have a valid passport issued from Russia; usually, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months or 6 months after returning to your country. Some countries may also ask you to provide travel health insurance, evidence that you have enough money to finance your trip and proof that you have booked a return flight ticket to Russia.
Visa on Arrival for Russian Citizens
When you enter the following countries, you need to get a visa on arrival (VOA):
Visa Required for Russian Citizens
You cannot enter these countries without applying for a visa before you depart:
Visa Reciprocity Between Russia and Other Countries
Even though the following countries allow entry without visa for Russians, citizens of these countries cannot enter Russia without a visa:
Can a Russian Citizen Visit the US?
Yes, you can visit the US, but you need to have a valid visa to enter the country. Also, please remember that a visa won’t guarantee you entry into the US; if a border patrol officer decides to deny you access, you cannot enter the country.
Replacement Visas
Certain countries allow you to enter if you have any of the following visas: