Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Russia?
In general nationals of all foreign countries shall apply for entry visas in order to enter and stay in Russia for predetermined periods. There are some countries which are exempted from visa requirements depending on the nature of bilateral relations. Accordingly, citizens of some countries are eligible to apply for electronic visas. You can find the complete list of countries whose citizens can apply for e-visas within minutes. Citizens of about 60 nations are not asked for a visa to visit Russia given that their stay is not exceeding 90 days in 180 days periods starting from the first day of entry. Nationals of Belarus and South Ossetia are entitled the right to visa-free travel to Russia without any time restrictions. Make sure to double check with the Russian diplomatic missions in your country of residence to make sure whether you will need an entry visa to go to Russia.
Russia Visa Types
Different types of visas for entry to Russian Federation are as following: tourist visa, business visa, private visa, work visa, student visa, humanitarian and transit visa. Single, double or multiple-entry visas distinguish the holder’s term of stay. Visa holders cannot stay in Russia longer than 90 days in periods of 180 days unless stated otherwise. E-visa can be obtained by citizens of listed countries for restricted travels and on single-entry terms within 30 days. In the case that the objective of your trip does not correspond to any of the mentioned visa types please apply for a traditional (non electronic) visa at authorized diplomatic missions.
Type C (Short-term Stay) Visa
Short-term visa is issued for predetermined periods in line with the applicant’s request for stays that are not exceeding a maximum of 90 days. Russia visa applications can be processed from the authorized diplomatic missions or delegated visa processing centers in one’s country of residence.
Russia Tourist Visa
Russia tourist visa is issued to third country nationals who are obliged to obtain an entry visa to travel to the country for tourism and entertainment related purposes. Tourist visa holders can remain in Russia for up to 30 days.
Russia Visa for Business and Fair Visits
Business visa is granted to foreign nationals who wish to visit Russia solely for business reasons whether it requires the applicant to attend a conference or engaging in commercial activities. Travelers can stay in the country for up to three months with single or double entry visas. However, multiple entry business visa which will be valid for up to one year can be obtained if the applicant is able to prove the necessity of frequent travels.
Russia Visa for Visit to Family, Relatives and Friends
Travels to Russian Federation by third country nationals with the intention of visiting family, relatives or friends shall refer to private visa category. The application must be supported through a private invitation from relative or friends who are in Russia. Private visa is valid for periods up to 90 days.
Russia Visa for Cultural, Sports Activities and Participation to Conferences
Foreign travelers are asked to obtain an entry visa to enter Russia in order to participate cultural or sports related events. Humanitarian visa is issued on single or double-entry terms for sport, cultural, scientific, religious, charity or humanitarian purposes. An official invitation letter provided by the host organization in Russia is mandatory. The multiple entry visa can be issued for 1-3 years although it does not mean a long-term residence permit.
Russia Visa for Short-term Education and Traineeship
Foreign travelers who would like to visit Russia for short-term education or training purposes can obtain a short-term student or work visa which will be valid for periods up to 90 days. An official invitation letter from the prospective employer or education institution based in Russia is mandatory to apply for such visa.
Type D (Long-term Stay) Visa
Long-term visa grants its holder the right to visit to Russia for periods extending 90 days. Foreigner students who wish to study in Russian education institutions shall obtain a student visa. The visa is granted for maximum one year with multiple entry possibility, however applying for a residence permit is mandatory for long-term stays. Admission letter from the Russian high education institutes is among the requirements to apply for a student visa.Third country nationals who wish to remain in Russia to work in a given period are required to apply for work visa. Experts, artists or scholars can obtain a work visa if it will be approved by the Ministry of Interior. Foreigners who would like to extend his/her stay in Russia must apply for a residence permit from relevant government bodies, before the expiry date of their visa.
Russia Transit Visa
Transit visa enables the travelers to change flights at the international zone of Russian airports on the way to third destinations. Russian transit visa is valid for maximum 3 days. The traveler must be able to submit an eligible travel document or passport that is valid for minimum six months after the travel dates, travel tickets and a visa if necessary for the next destination.
General Requirements to Apply for Russia Visa
Tourist visa requirements for Russian Federation are explained in detail below. Please be aware of the fact that the required documents may differ depending on the term and purpose of your stay, hence the category of your visa. The Consulate always reserves its right to ask for additional documents.
Russia Visa Applications
- A passport or travel document with at minimum two blank pages, valid for at least six months and for at least 90 days after the end of travel. Copy of the first page including personal data and previous visas if obtained.
- Completed and signed visa application form along with two biometric photo that is not older than 6 months.
- Proof of travel with confirmed both-way tickets.
- Bank account details proving that the passenger can sufficiently fund his/her travel.
- Evidence of occupation in the form of certified documents through employer letter, student certificate, document of registration or demonstration of pension funds.
- Accommodation details through an invitation letter or proof of your hotel reservation throughout your stay.
- Documentation of travel health insurance which will be valid in Russia for the entire period of stay.