russian tourist visa 2023

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Tourist Visa In Russia: A Simple Guide 

Dreaming of exploring Russia’s vast landscapes and rich cultural tapestry? A tourist visa is your first step into this land of Tsars and timeless tales . Don’t worry! We’ve got your back in this!

From the majestic Red Square in Moscow to the opulent palaces of Saint Petersburg, our guide will help you navigate the intricacies of the Russian tourist visa process , ensuring your journey is as majestic as the destinations you’ll explore.

Let’s dive in!

Understanding The Russian Tourist Visa

Russia, the land of czars, vast landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, is a dream destination for many travelers. 

However, to explore this immense country, one must first grasp the intricacies of obtaining a Russian tourist visa .

A Russian tourist visa serves as your gateway to experiencing the wonders of this vast nation. 

It’s essential to understand its key aspects :

Visa Validity And Duration Of Stay 

Russian tourist visas typically come in varying durations, ranging from a few days to several weeks or months. 

The validity of your visa determines the window during which you can enter Russia. 

Once inside, your duration of stay usually depends on the visa type and the itinerary specified in your invitation letter .

The primary purpose of a Russian tourist visa is clear: it’s for tourism. You’ll be expected to engage in activities such as sightseeing, exploring cultural attractions, and experiencing the local way of life.

Single/Double/Multi-Entry

Tourist visas are available in different formats. Single-entry visas allow you to enter Russia once during the specified period. 

Double-entry visas permit two entries , and multi-entry visas allow multiple entries during their validity. Choose the type that aligns with your travel plans .

No Employment Allowed 

It’s crucial to note that a Russian tourist visa strictly forbids any form of employment or business activities. This visa is exclusively for leisure and travel purposes.

Registration Requirements 

Upon arrival in Russia, tourists must register with local authorities within a specific timeframe, usually within 7 days . Failure to do so could lead to fines or complications during departure.

Types Of Russian Tourist Visas

When planning a trip to Russia, understanding the different types of tourist visas available is crucial. Russia offers several categories of tourist visas, each designed to suit various travel needs . 

Here, we’ll explore these visa types :

Single-Entry Tourist Visa 

This is the most common type of Russian tourist visa. As the name suggests, it allows a single entry into Russia during the specified period of validity. 

Once you exit Russia, the visa becomes invalid, even if the visa’s duration hasn’t expired. Single-entry visas are suitable for travellers planning a one-time visit.

Double-Entry Tourist Visa 

A double-entry tourist visa permits two entries into Russia within the visa’s validity period. 

This is an excellent choice if your travel itinerary involves leaving Russia to visit a neighbouring country and then returning to Russia during the same trip.

Multi-Entry Tourist Visa

As the most flexible option, a multi-entry tourist visa allows multiple entries into Russia within the visa’s validity. 

This type of visa is ideal for travellers with complex itineraries that involve multiple trips in and out of Russia during an extended stay.

Group Tourist Visa

Group tourist visas are issued to groups of travelers (usually more than five) who share a common itinerary. 

These visas are convenient for organized tours or group travel , as a single visa is issued for the entire group.

Application Process

Embarking on a journey to Russia as a tourist requires meticulous planning, and it all begins with understanding the visa application process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on where to begin:

Determine Your Visa Type

The first step is to identify the type of Russian tourist visa you need based on your travel plans. Are you visiting for a short stay or a more extended period? 

Do you plan on making multiple entries ? Understanding your itinerary is crucial as it will influence the visa type you should apply for.

Collect The Necessary Documents

Once you’ve determined your visa type, gather the required documents. 

These typically include a valid passport, a visa invitation ( tourist voucher ), a completed visa application form, and a recent passport-sized photo. 

Ensure that your passport has at least 6 months of validity beyond your intended departure date from Russia.

Visa Invitation

The visa invitation, also known as a tourist voucher, is a crucial document. You can obtain it through various channels, such as hotels, travel agencies, or online services .

The invitation should detail your itinerary, including accommodation details for your entire stay in Russia.

Completing The Visa Application Form

The visa application form is a pivotal component of the process when applying for a Russian tourist visa. 

It’s essential to approach this form with precision and attention to detail to ensure a smooth and successful application. 

Here’s a comprehensive guide on completing the Russian visa application form:

Obtain The Correct Form

Begin by obtaining the official Russian visa application form. 

You can usually find this form on the website of the Russian consulate or embassy responsible for your jurisdiction. 

Ensure that you download the latest version of the form, as requirements may change periodically.

Provide Personal Information

The form will ask for your personal details , including your full name, date of birth, gender, nationality, and passport information. 

Be meticulous when entering this information, and double-check for accuracy.

Travel Itinerary

Clearly outline your travel itinerary in the application form. 

Specify your intended entry and exit dates from Russia, as well as the cities you plan to visit. 

Ensure that this information aligns with your visa invitation and any other supporting documents.

Accommodation Details

List the places where you’ll be staying during your visit to Russia. Ensure that these details match the information provided in your visa invitation. 

Include the names and addresses of the hotels or accommodations.

Visit The Russian Consulate Or Visa Center

Once you’ve meticulously completed your Russian visa application form and gathered all the necessary documents, the next crucial step in the application process is visiting the Russian Consulate or Visa Center.  

This in-person visit is where you’ll submit your application and go through the necessary procedures. 

Here’s what to expect when visiting the Russian Consulate or Visa Center:

Scheduling An Appointment

Before visiting the Consulate or Visa Center, check their specific requirements regarding appointments. 

Some locations may require you to schedule an appointment in advance, while others may offer walk-in services during designated hours. Ensure that you have all the required documents ready before your visit.

Consulate Or Visa Center Location

Be aware of the physical address of the Russian Consulate or Visa Center you need to visit. 

Consulates are typically located in major cities , and Visa Centers may be established to facilitate the application process.

Submission Process

When you arrive at the Consulate or Visa Center, you will be directed to the visa application submission area. 

There, you’ll present your application form, passport, visa invitation, and all other supporting documents to the consulate or visa center staff. They will review your application to ensure that it meets the necessary requirements.

Visa Fee Payment

At the Consulate or Visa Center, you’ll be required to pay the visa application fee, which varies depending on your nationality, visa type, and processing time. 

Payment methods may differ, so inquire in advance whether they accept cash, credit cards, or other forms of payment.

Pay the Visa Fee

Paying the visa fee is a pivotal step when applying for a Russian tourist visa. 

This fee covers the cost of processing your application and varies depending on several factors, including your nationality , visa type, and processing time. 

Understanding how to pay the visa fee correctly is essential to ensure a smooth application process. Here’s what you need to know:

Fee Determination

The visa fee for Russia is not uniform and can differ significantly depending on your circumstances. 

Your nationality plays a role, as some countries have reciprocity agreements with Russia, affecting visa fees. 

Additionally, the type of visa you’re applying for, such as single-entry, double-entry, or multi-entry, can influence the fee. The processing time you choose, whether standard or expedited, also affects the cost.

Accepted Payment Methods

Russian consulates and visa centres typically accept various payment methods for the visa fee. These may include cash, credit cards, money orders, or bank transfers. 

It’s essential to check with the specific consulate or visa centre where you plan to submit your application to determine which payment methods they accept. 

Some locations may have preferences or restrictions regarding payment options.

Fee Payment Process

When you arrive at the Russian Consulate or Visa Center to submit your application, you’ll be directed to the payment area.  

Here, you will provide the necessary payment using the accepted method. Keep in mind that fees are subject to change, so verify the current fee before your visit. 

Ensure that you have the exact amount if paying in cash or follow the specific instructions for credit card payments.

Retaining Payment Receipt

Once you’ve paid the visa fee, you will receive a payment receipt as proof of payment. This receipt contains essential information, including the date and amount paid. 

It’s crucial to retain this receipt throughout the application process, as you may need it when collecting your visa.

Additional Fees

In some cases, you may encounter additional fees, such as service fees charged by the Visa Center or consular fees for expedited processing. 

Be aware of these potential additional costs and budget accordingly.

Waiting For Processing

Once you’ve submitted your Russian visa application, the next phase in the process is waiting for the authorities to process your request. 

Understanding the processing time is crucial for planning your trip and ensuring a smooth visa application experience. 

Here’s what you need to know about waiting for processing:

Processing Time Variability

The processing time for Russian tourist visas can vary widely depending on several factors. 

These include your nationality , the type of visa you’re applying for (single-entry, double-entry, or multi-entry), and the processing speed you’ve chosen (standard or expedited). 

It’s essential to be aware of these variables, as they can significantly impact the duration of your wait.

Standard Processing Time

Standard processing for a Russian tourist visa typically takes several business days to a few weeks. 

The exact timeframe can differ based on your nationality and the specific consulate or visa centre where you submitted your application. 

Be prepared for this wait by applying well in advance of your intended travel dates.

Expedited Processing

If you require your visa more urgently, some consulates and visa centres offer expedited processing services for an additional fee. 

This can shorten the waiting period to a matter of days. 

However, availability and the fee structure for expedited processing can vary by location, so check with your consulate for details.

Visa Collection Date

When you submitted your application and paid the fee, you received a payment receipt with a specified date for collecting your visa. 

Ensure you mark this date on your calendar and make arrangements to retrieve your visa promptly.

Patience And Preparation

While waiting for your Russian tourist visa, use this time to prepare for your trip. 

Research your travel destinations, book accommodations, and plan your itinerary. 

Remember that you may need to register with local authorities upon arrival in Russia, so familiarize yourself with those requirements as well.

Tracking Your Application

Some consulates and visa centres offer tracking services that allow you to monitor the status of your visa application online. 

This can provide peace of mind and keep you informed about any updates.

Contacting The Consulate

If your visa processing time extends beyond the standard duration, consider contacting the consulate or visa centre for updates. 

Delays can sometimes occur due to high application volumes or additional processing requirements.

 Filling Out The Visa Application Form

Filling out the visa application form is a pivotal step when applying for a Russian tourist visa. 

This form serves as the official document that provides the Russian authorities with crucial information about your intended visit. 

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to navigate this crucial aspect of the application process:

Access The Correct Form

Start by accessing the latest version of the Russian visa application form. You can typically find this form on the website of the Russian consulate or embassy responsible for your jurisdiction. 

Ensure that you download the most recent version, as requirements may change periodically.

Personal Details

The form will begin by requesting essential personal information. This includes your full name, date of birth, gender, nationality, and passport information. 

Be exceptionally careful when entering this data and ensure it precisely matches your passport details.

Clearly outline your travel itinerary within the form. Specify your intended entry and exit dates from Russia, as well as the cities you plan to visit. 

Ensure that this information aligns perfectly with your visa invitation and any other supporting documents.

List the names and addresses of the places you’ll be staying throughout your visit to Russia.

These details should closely mirror the information provided in your visa invitation. Ensure accuracy to avoid complications.

Employment And Financial Information

The form may inquire about your current employment status, job title, and employer. 

Additionally, you may need to provide information about your financial means to cover your trip to Russia.

Family Information

Some visa application forms may request details about your family, including the names of your immediate family members.

Travel History

You may be asked to list your previous international travels, including destinations and dates of travel.

Photo And Signature

Attach a recent passport-sized photo to the designated section of the form. Additionally, you’ll need to sign the form in the appropriate space. 

Ensure that your signature matches the one on your passport.

Consulate Or Visa Center Specifics

Review the specific guidelines of the Russian consulate or visa centre where you plan to submit your application. 

Some consulates may have additional requirements or preferences regarding the application form.

Thorough Review

Before submitting the form, meticulously review all the information you’ve provided for accuracy and consistency. Errors or discrepancies can lead to delays or complications in the application process.

Online Vs. Offline Filling

Some consulates offer the option to complete the application form online, while others may require a printed copy . 

Be sure to follow the method specified by the consulate you’re applying to.

With insights on securing your Russian tourist visa in hand, the vast expanse of this enigmatic nation awaits.

From its storied past to its vibrant present, Russia beckons. Ready to explore?

Russia Revealed!

But wait! There’s lot more that you might be interested in to follow:

• Types Of Visas In Russia
• Tax Refund In Russia
• Temporary Residence In Russia

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Russian E-Visa to Be Available from August 1

24 July 2023

August 1, 2023 will mark the relaunch date of Russia’s electronic visa (E-Visa). Authorities at the Kremlin have announced that the online visa will be available to eligible travelers from the start of the month.

Russia’s E-Visa service has been suspended since 2020 , when the COVID-19 pandemic led to global travel restrictions.

Although many countries have since reinstated their digital visa systems, Russia has maintained travel restrictions into 2023 , including insisting that visa applications be made in person at embassies.

Now, this is finally set to change. The Russian Foreign Ministry released a statement via its website stating that international travelers would be able to get an electronic visa from August 1 .

Who Will Be Able to Get a Russian E-Visa in August?

According to the statement from Russia’s Foreign Ministry, citizens of 52 different countries will be able to obtain an electronic visa.

When the E-Visa was previously launched in 2020, over 50 nationalities were eligible , and it is believed that most, if not all, of these will be able to apply from August.

These nationalities include citizens of European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, China, India, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Turkey, among others.

It is unknown whether the launch of the E-Visa will come with further changes to Russia’s visa policy .

Terms of the Russian E-Visa from August 2023

In the Russian Foreign Ministry’s statement, it is stated that passengers will be able to get the electronic visa by submitting an application online .

The visa will allow the traveler a single entry to the Russian Federation for any of the following purposes:

• Holidays/tourism
• Business trips
• Guest of a Russian citizen/resident/organization
• Participate in sporting events
• Participate in cultural events
• Participate in scientific, sociopolitical, or economic events

The visa is said to be valid for use for 60 days and the holder must enter the country during this time. Once in Russia, the E-Visa allows a stay of up to 16 days .

Russia has 92 border points equipped with the necessary technology to scan and verify E-Visas.

This allows passengers with an E-Visa to enter the country by air, land, or sea .

The Return of Russia’s Electronic Visa

Russia’s E-Visa service has taken some time to come to fruition, but it finally seems to be ready to be launched permanently .

Previously, the Russian government had introduced separate E-Visas for certain regions , including:

• Kaliningrad
• Leningrad Oblast
• Saint Petersburg
• The Far Eastern Federal District

The plan had been to unify these E-Visa systems and create one single E-Visa for the entire country.

However, as the system was being implemented, the pandemic began. Russia introduced travel restrictions, which included suspending all E-Visas . It was no longer possible to apply using the online platform.

In February 2023, Russia announced that it planned to reintroduce the E-Visa later in the year. June was tentatively stated to be the date of the relaunch. However, this did not come to pass.

In June, the date of the E-Visa launch was pushed back to July . This has now been delayed further .

Now, the Foreign Ministry has given the date of August 1 for the return of Russia’s E-Visa service. With the proximity of this date, it is unlikely to be delayed further, although this remains a possibility.

The electronic visa will now be a unified visa for access to the whole country . This was Russia’s ultimate goal to make traveling easier and encourage more visitors to promote tourism in the nation.

Related News

Maxim Reshetnikov, the Russian Minister of Economic Development, has announced that an electronic visa application system for Russia will finally launch in 2023.  An E-visa for Russia was first announced in 2020, when the government passed a law that would allow citizens of over 50 countries to apply for a Russian visa online. It was

Russian authorities have announced the decision to restart the electronic visa system. The government will confirm a date for its reintroduction by June 1, 2023. The Russian E-Visa program was activated in 2020. The online system allowed citizens of eligible countries to obtain a visa for their trip to Russia completely online. The new visa

Disclaimer Handyvisas.com is not owned by, or affiliated with any government agency. We are a private, online agency that provides assistance in submitting applications for tourist visits to different countries around the world. Applications can also be made directly through government websites.

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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The Russian Embassy in the Netherlands does not accept visitors

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Official visa center of Russia in Australia

Welcome to the website of russian visa centers in australia.

The official Russian Visa Centers in Australia are the only agencies authorized by the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Australia and the Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Sydney for the submission of documents for visa to Russia.

It has become easier to apply for a visa to Russia!

Get your visa to Russia now!

Pay attention

Dear Customers,

Russian Visa Application Centre in Sydney suspends the acceptance of visa applications as of 16 March 2023 until further notice. All applications lodged before 16 March 2023 will be processed and returned to the applicant upon completion.

We recommend using the services of the new travel visa agency Travelvisa2go to get your Russian visa.

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What was it like to visit Russia in 2023?

 1.  Breaking prejudices & expectations

Travelers that we spoke to emphasized the importance of setting aside media-driven perceptions. Ari from Brazil has visited Russia more than 15 times in the last 12 years, advises: “Switch off your TV and ditch your prejudice.”

Rachael Weston from the U.S. echoed this sentiment. She found Russia to be vastly different from its portrayal in Western media when she visited Moscow for the first time in 2023.

Despite initial concerns about visa complications and diplomatic tensions, her experience at the Russian consulate was unexpectedly welcoming, she admits.

2. Moscow’s attractions & safety

Rachael explored Moscow’s famous sites including the Red Square , the GUM, the Kremlin, Gorky Park and Izmailovsky Bazaar.

“GUM and the Red Square were my favorites! I went there several times and especially liked them at night,” she says. 

Due to sanctions, Rachael had to bring a lot of cash, which was initially stressful. However, she found Moscow to be very safe and had no problems.

Rachael used the subway and taxis to get around the city and felt safe, even when sightseeing alone. She was particularly struck by the quietness of the Moscow Metro: “I was surprised at how quiet people are, especially on the subway, where everyone kept to themselves, listening with headphones or talking softly with their partners. It was a really nice change from the subways in other major cities.”

 3.  Cultural encounters and language barriers

Ilaria from Italy, who visited her Russian boyfriend in Novosibirsk, jokes that the only thing she didn’t like about visiting Russia was having to leave. “I traveled to a lot of countries and I can confirm that Russians are amazing people!” she says. Despite her limited Russian, locals were eager to help.

However, Fateme from Iran had a contrasting experience in St. Petersburg, where she found communication difficult, due to limited English proficiency among locals. She suggests learning at least some basic Russian for a smoother experience. 

Ari from Brazil notes significant changes in Russia since her first visit in 2011. She observes that the nation is evolving and becoming even more open to foreigners. 

“They used to be colder and more reserved in the past. Now, I find that they are opening up a lot recently and becoming friendlier,” Ari shares. She is continuously amazed by Russian cultural traits, such as excessive tea-drinking, adding dill to every dish and wearing high-heels in snowy weather!

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