The world's largest country offers impressive authenticity and diversity. Although much of the country is cold and snow-covered, you can still admire its beautiful landscapes in summer. Before booking your plane ticket, it would be wise to have your visa in hand, to avoid any disappointment. To do this, you need to prepare your application carefully and take into account the time required to obtain your visa.
How long does it take to obtain a classic Russian visa in your passport?
To obtain a tourist visa for Russia, you will need to provide proof of an invitation, known as a "voucher". This invitation can be issued by a travel agency, a Russian host, or an organisation registered in the Russian trade register. In addition to this invitation, you will need to enclose proof of reservation for a tourist service. Without these two items, it will be difficult for your application to reach the validation stage for your visa.
Your application must be made up of :
- a completed, signed and dated visa application form (available online)
- a photocopy of the passport with the pages showing your photo and signature (colour)
- a health and repatriation insurance certificate
- a recent passport photo (colour)
- a voucher and proof of stay.
⚠️ This file must be submitted directly to the authorities.
Deadlines for an e-Visa
If you don't want to be burdened with travel and files, you can also opt for a electronic visa. To obtain this visa, you can go through a private immigration agency or the authorities' website. The only eligibility criterion for this visa is your nationality. This electronic visa will enable you to visit the country, go there on a business trip or carry out a humanitarian aid operation. The e-Visa entitles you to a single entry into the country, for a maximum stay of 16 days.
This alternative is more attractive because it allows applications to be made for several people at the same time. What's more, the online application process is easier.
To apply for an e-Visa, you must inform :
- Contact details foraccommodation (no voucher required)
- A passport valid for at least 6 months at the time of application
- A passport photoin any format
- A travel insurance repatriation + medical expenses
- A certificate of residence insurance
- If your stay in Russia exceeds 7 working days, you must register with Russian immigration
You will also need to enclose a scan of the pages of your valid passport (containing your signature and photo) in colour, as well as valid passport photos in colour. Finally, you will receive a notification confirming the availability of your visa within 4 days.
An agency service 