how do i get a tourist visa to russia

How to Get a Tourist Visa to Russia

1. Apply in person at one of the official visa centers (ils-usa.com) This is a great option if you live close enough to a visa center because you can save ...
2. Apply by mail to one of the official visa centers (ils-usa.com) If you can’t make it down to a visa center yourself, you can apply by mail for an ...
3. Apply through a visa agent like LetsRussia

Full Answer

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. ...

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.

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.

How long does it take to get a Russian tourist visa?

3 to 14 daysAfter submitting your visa application, you will get your Russian visa within 3 to 14 days (depending on the fee you pay). Consular Fees: You will need to pay the consular fee and the visa processing fee, which depend on the type of visa, the country where you apply, and your citizenship.

How hard is it to get a tourist visa to Russia?

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.

Is Russia giving tourist visa right now?

Due to Covid-19 epidemy the visa processing is temporarily suspended since March 18 by the Ministry Of Internal Affairs. The restrictions are likely to remain in force through September 15.

How much does a Russian tourist visa cost?

Visa Fees At A GlanceNUMBER OF ENTRIESCONSULAR FEE REGULAR* / EXPEDITED**Single Entry**$160 / $160Double Entry**$160 / $1603 Year Multiple Entry **$160 / $160

What documents do I need for a Russian tourist visa?

Russian Tourist Visa Your original passport with at least 2 blank visa-designated pages (passport must be valid for at least 6 months after intended departure date from Russia). Two copies of Russian visa application form, completed and signed. ONE passport-size photo signed on the back.

How long can I stay in Russia on a tourist visa?

A tourist Russian visa is single-entry or double-entry only and can be valid for the period up to 30 days. If you are a US citizen, you can get a tourist visa to Russia valid for 3 years, and you can stay every 90 out of every 180 days on that type of visa.

How do I get an invitation letter from Russia?

Indeed, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the AFMS (administrative migration federal service) can be solicited in order to provide the invitation letter. With this document, a person (a Russian citizen) or an institution registered in Russia is inviting you to visit him or them in Russia on a specific purpose.

Can I fly to Russia now?

Russia - AVOID ALL TRAVEL 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.

Is it hard to travel to Russia?

Russia is known for its unnavigable bureaucracy, but thankfully, travel to Russia has become easier since Soviet times. You'll still have to register, and you still need a visa, but Russia travel is as easy as it is enjoyable, if you bear in mind the following tips.

Can Americans travel to Russia now?

Do not travel to Russia due to the unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces, the potential for harassment against U.S. citizens by Russian government security officials, the singling out of U.S. citizens in Russia by Russian government security officials including for detention, the ...

How far in advance can I apply for a Russian visa?

You can apply for a tourist visa at a Russian consulate not earlier than 90 days before your requested visa start date. It is not recommended to apply more than 6 months in advance, as some consulates may have issues with visa support letters which are older than 6 months.

Is it safe to travel to Russia as an American?

Crime against foreigners is a serious problem. Harassment and assaults are prevalent, particularly against foreigners of Asian and African descent. Some victims have died as a result of assaults. Foreigners in the areas to which we advise against all travel are particularly vulnerable.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

What is a Tourist Invitation Letter?

It is a document stating that you are officially invited to Russia by a Russian travel company or a hotel that is accredited by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. This document has two parts: A Voucher and a Confirmation of the Admission of a Foreign Tourist. It is necessary to present an Invitation Letter for you to apply for a Russian visa.

What are the documents required to apply?

To apply for an Invitation Letter with eVisa, you will need the following:

How to get a Russian visa?

Complete the online Russian Tourist Visa application form. The form is available online, and you can complete it for free. It contains questions on your identity and your intended trip to Russia.

Who Needs a Russia Tourist Visa?

According to the Russian visa policy, most citizens of most countries will need a tourist visa for Russia. However, there are several countries the nationals of which are excluded from this requirement. In addition, several categories are exempt or can enter with an e-visa. These categories are:

What is the most important part of a Russian tourist visa application?

Collecting the required documents is the most important part of a Russian tourist visa application. Based on the documents that you submit to apply for a Russian tourist visa, the Russian authorities take a decision on your application.

How long does it take to get a Russian visa?

The processing time for a Russian tourist visa application is as follows: For citizens of the European Union, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway and Switzerland – 7 to 20 working days. For citizens of Angola, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, North Macedonia and Vietnam – seven calendar days.

Where to submit Russian visa application?

Submit your completed application. Submit the documents you have collected at a Russian Consulate or Russian Visa Processing Center. You should submit these documents in person. Depending on your home country, you may have to make an appointment prior to that.

How long do you have to register your visa in Russia?

The border police keep one part of the card, and the other one is for you. Register your visa. If you will be staying more than seven days in Russia, you will need to register your visa. If you are planning to stay at a hotel, the hotel is responsible to register your visa.

What to do after arriving in Russia?

However, there are additional things you need to do after you arrive in Russia. Get the immigration card. When you arrive at the Russian port of entry, the border police will give you an immigration card. The card consists of two identical parts, which you should fill in with your information.

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.

What is included in a tourist invitation?

The look of a tourist invitation is not regulated by law but it must contain the name of the travel company and its reference number, passport details of the tourist, cities to be visited, the validity period of the visa, number of entries and some other information.

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.

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.

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 ...

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.

Who is the Russian National Tourist Office?

The Russian National Tourist Office is the leading company in the UK for Russian visas, having provided Russian visa assistance to customers since 1997. For all your visa needs and any questions on the subject, feel free to contact us or apply online.

How long is a business visa valid in Russia?

Business Visa – valid for 90 days and allows a maximum of two entries. This Visa allows you to conduct business meetings in Russia.

What are the different types of visas?

There are many types of Visas, and knowing which one you need is essential: 1 Tourist Visa – valid up to 30 days and allows a maximum of two entries into the country. 2 Special Purpose Tourist Visa – valid up to 30 days and allows a maximum of two entries. This Visa also allows you to attend events in Russia. 3 Business Visa – valid for 90 days and allows a maximum of two entries. This Visa allows you to conduct business meetings in Russia. 4 Multiple Entry Business Visa – valid for 365 days and has no limit on the number of entries. 5 Transit visa – can be valid up to 30 days and allows a maximum of two entries. This Visa allows you to stay in Russia for transit purposes only. 6 Private Visa – valid up to 90 days and allows a maximum of two entries. This Visa is intended for private purposes. 7 Humanitarian Visa – can be valid for up to 365 days and may have no limit on the number of entries. This type of Visa is intended for cultural, sports and charity purposes. 8 Student Visa – valid for up to several years, it is intended for students. 9 Work Visa – valid for up to several years, this Visa is intended for people who are constantly employed in Russia.

How long is a humanitarian visa valid?

Humanitarian Visa – can be valid for up to 365 days and may have no limit on the number of entries. This type of Visa is intended for cultural, sports and charity purposes.

How long is a private visa valid?

Private Visa – valid up to 90 days and allows a maximum of two entries. This Visa is intended for private purposes.

Do British citizens need a visa to travel to Russia?

British passport holders require a visa to travel to the Russian Federation. 2. Find out what type of visa you need to apply for. There are many types of Visas, and knowing which one you need is essential: Tourist Visa – valid up to 30 days and allows a maximum of two entries into the country.

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.