Russia is an enormous country with a long history, and it offers plenty to see and do. Whether you want to see world-famous landmarks like the Kremlin, go sightseeing on the canals of St Petersburg or travel to the Pacific on the famous Trans-Siberian Railway you'll find something to interest you. Russia has strict visa requirements, though, and it's essential to plan ahead. This guide will make it easier.

No visa required for

citizens of Serbia or member states of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

Visa on arrival

not available

Where to get the visa

A visa application can generally be submitted at any Russian embassy or consulate. It's best to apply at one in your own country, as using one in a third country can result in delays. Many embassies and consulates no longer accept visa applications by mail, and a personal visit is required; you should check your local Russian mission before applying. In some countries, such as the UK, visa applications have been outsourced to private companies. This information will also be available from your country's Russian embassy.

Lake Baikal in winter

Picture copyright by Jim Linwood

Which documents have to be provided

• Completed visa application form. Forms are available online. 

• Passport valid for at least six months after the expiration date of the visa and with at least two blank pages available.

• One passport photo taken within the last six months.

• Money order or certified bank check for the full visa fee, made out to the Russian Embassy or Consulate. Applications handled through private companies may offer other payment options.

• Proof of reason for travel. This can be obtained from your tour operator or travel agent.

• Proof of medical insurance cover. Citizens of the following countries can use their national health insurance: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Hungary, Greece, Spain, Italy, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Germany, Finland, France, Czech Republic, Sweden, Switzerland, Estonia.

Visa characteristics

A tourist visa is normally valid for 30 days unless special restrictions apply. Tourist visas are available in two types. A single entry visa allows entry to Russia then automatically expires on departure. A double entry allows two entries during the validity period.

Visa fee

The standard fee for a tourist visa is 140 USD, with the application being processed within ten business days. Express processing within three business days is available for a fee of 250 USD.

Processing fees are not refundable if the application is rejected.

Process at the immigration desk of airport or land border

On arrival in Russia you must complete a migration card. These are usually handed out by flight attendants or staff on trains, and are also available at entry points before the customs desk. The customs officer will keep Part A of the card and you get Part B. You must carry this at all times when you are in Russia. It's important not to lose it; if you do, you'll need to return to the checkpoint where you got the original card to be issued a duplicate.

Tips

• Russian consulates don't all operate to the same rules when it comes to issuing visas. For information about your local consulate and any special requirements or other issues you could e.g. check with the website Way to Russia. If possible don't arrange your visa until you have firm dates for travel. It's not possible to change the dates on a visa once it's been issued.

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