Tourist Visa to Russia
Requirements for travel to Russia as tourist
Most overseas tourists need a visa for Russia, even for short stays. Tourist visas are available to foreign nationals visiting Russia on vacation.
There are 2 ways to get a tourist visa for Russia, in person or online. This page explains the different tourist visas and how to apply for each.
What is a Tourist Visa to Russia?
The Russia Tourist Visa is the visa you need to go to Russia on vacation.
There are 2 ways to get a tourist visa for your trip to Russia.
1. Tourist e-visa for Russia
Travelers from more than 50 countries can get a tourist visa for Russia online. Simple to request online, the e-visa is the best option for short vacations.
With the tourist e-visa, you can visit Russia for up to 16 days. The same visa is also valid for short business trips and humanitarian purposes.
2. Traditional Tourist Visa for Russia
If you are not eligible for an e-visa, or if you want to spend longer than 16 days in Russia, you can apply for a traditional Tourist Visa for Russia.
You need to apply for a traditional Tourist Visa in person. Several documents are required including a tourist confirmation document, such as a hotel reservation. With a Tourist Visa, you can visit Russia for up to 30 days.
Which Countries Need a Tourist Visa to Enter Russia?
You need a Tourist Visa for Russia if you are not from an exempted country. According to Russia’s visa policy, most international tourists need a visa to visit Russia on vacation.
Russian tourist visas on arrival are not available. If you need a visa for your trip, you must apply in advance.
You can get a tourist visa for Russia online if you’re from one of the e-visa-eligible countries.
Online Application for Russian Tourist Visa
Applying for a Russia Tourist Visa online is quick and simple. You need to fill out the Russia e-visa application form and upload a copy of your passport and a digital photo.
Advantages of the electronic tourist visa for Russia:
- No invitation letter required
- No need to visit the embassy
- Visas processed in 4 to 6 days
Provided you meet the e-visa requirements, you can save time and effort by opting for the online tourist visa.
Bear in mind that you can stay for a maximum of 16 days, including your days of arrival and departure. For longer stays, you need to apply for a traditional tourist visa as explained below.
Traditional Tourist Visa Requirements for Russia
This section explains how to apply for a tourist visa for Russia if you:
- Are not from an eligible country
- Will stay for more than 16 days
You must have made all your accommodation bookings before you can apply for this tourist visa.
It's a longer and more complex process than when applying for a visa online. Apply several weeks before your travel to allow time for processing.
Documents to apply for a traditional tourist visa
As well as your passport and completed visa application form you need:
- Recent passport-style photo attached to the visa application form
- Tourist confirmation document, such as a hotel booking for your entire stay
- Medical insurance certificate valid for Russia
Physical copies of these documents must be presented at your visa appointment at the Russian consulate.
Traditional Russia tourist visa application process
- Complete the tourist visa application form found on the website of the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation
- Print out your completed application form
- Make a visa appointment at a Russian consulate in your country of residenceMake a visa appointment at a Russian consulate in your country of residence
- Present your application and supporting documents at the embassy
You then need to wait to receive the decision on your application. This can take several weeks. You cannot travel to Russia until you receive your approved tourist visa.
Traveling to Russia with a Tourist Visa or Tourist e-visa
With your approved visa you can visit Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and other popular Russian tourist destinations. If you’re traveling with an e-visa, check the full list of permitted entry ports.
You need to carry your tourist visa and the passport you used to apply with you when traveling to Russia.
At the border, you'll need to present your passport with the tourist visa. The immigration officer might wish to see your return ticket and proof of accommodation. They may also ask about your travel plans in Russia.
You need to keep the immigration card given to you by the immigration official. You'll need it for registering your visa at your place of stay and for the exit process when leaving Russia.
Remember, within 7 working days of arrival, you must register your tourist visa. This is usually done by your hotel or the host of your accommodation.