On 13 December, the State Duma approved a new law that changes the landscape for visas for citizens of the European Union, Denmark, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The aim of this legislation is to harmonise visa fees classic and e-visasfollowing the unilateral suspension of international agreements promoting the easing of visa for these countries. For example, the cost of obtaining a visa Russian prices will rise considerably, from USD 50 to USD 300, depending on the urgency of demand, underlining the financial and economic stakes involved in this transition.
New visa legislation in Russia
On 13 December, the State Duma adopted a landmark law aimed at suspending certain provisions of Russia's international agreements concerning the easing of visa requirements for citizens of the European Union, Denmark, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. This legislation comes at a time when Russia is harmonising the fees for traditional visas and e-visas, thus affecting European travellers. The aim is to adjust costs and regulate entry to Russia.
Suspension of international agreements
The new law follows the unilateral decision by several European countries to suspend visa simplification agreements with Russia, which has led to a revision of the costs of obtaining visas. Citizens of the above countries will now have to pay visa fees of up to USD 300 (€264), almost triple the previous fee for certain categories of visa, including e-visas. This represents a significant change in visa policy, increasing the prices and revenues associated with issuing visas.
Harmonised visa fees
With the harmonisation of fees for traditional and e-visa, the Russian government intends to align the costs applied to these two forms of visa. The price of an e-visa will now be comparable to that of traditional visas, at between 50 USD (€44) and USD 300depending on the type and speed of processing required. The direct consequence of this tariff increase is to raise the revenue that Russia receives from visa fees, thereby generating additional income for the country.
Additional restrictions for certain categories
This law is not limited to raising fees. It also introduces restrictions on entry to Russia. For example, visa-free entry facilities for diplomats have now been suspended, and the visa preferences previously granted to members of official delegations, governments and parliamentarians have also been abolished. The aim of these measures is to control access to Russian territory more strictly, while preserving bilateral agreements for certain countries that continue to facilitate trade.
Conditions for visa-free stays
Despite these new restrictions, certain facilities remain in place for nationals of certain countries. For example, the maximum visa-free stay for these nationals remains unchanged, allowing those who meet the established conditions to continue travelling to Russia without additional formalities. These measures reflect Russia's ambivalence, as it seeks to maintain diplomatic relations while exercising greater control over who enters its territory.
To find out more about Russian visas
For those wishing to learn more about the new visa regulations, a series of articles and resources are available to make it easier to obtain visas. Various guides and details on e-visas and entry requirements for Russia can be consulted to help you prepare for your trip. Articles such as Preparing for your trip to Russia and Valid visa for Russian territory provide valuable information.
Conclusion on the new visa requirements
The implementation of this new law marks a turning point in Russia's visa policy, aligning the fees for traditional visas and e-visas while imposing unprecedented restrictions. This development warns travellers from the European Union and the countries concerned of the need to adapt their approach in the face of constantly changing regulations. For more information and variables on obtaining visas for Russia, visit this site to remind you of current requirements.
Comparison of visa fees in Russia
| Type of visa | Fees |
|---|---|
| e-Visa | 50 USD (€44) |
| Classic Visa (urgent) | 300 USD (264 €) |
| Classic visa (normal) | Varies by consulate |
| Additional cost | Increase for European citizens |
| Length of stay (e-Visa) | 16 days (15 nights) |
| Entry points (e-Visa) | Limited access to certain locations |
| Visa exemptions | Certain nationalities are still preferred |
| Restrictions for diplomats | Deleting preferences |
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