What is a visa?

Before going to Russia, it is necessary for all visitors (with the exception of citizens of certain ex-Soviet countries) to obtain permission (a visa) from a Russian Embassy to do so. The visa is a document prepared by the Embassy, and attached to a page in your passport. It then acts as a permit to enter and leave Russia within a specified period of time.

Different types of visa

There is a number of different types of visa. However, the main question when deciding what type of visa you require is how long you wish to stay in Russia.

• For trips of up to 30 days, you need a tourist visa
• For trips of more than 30 days, you need a business visa.

If you need to stay in Russia for more than 30 days at one time, business visas can give you the flexibility of visits of up to 12 months. Whatever type of visa you choose, you require an invitation before applying for the visa itself. To order an invitation, you can use our online ordering service.