Do you need to get your e-visa to Russia and don’t know where to start? The country is the ideal destination for people who want to experience old-world charm. It also has a rich history and is a unique country with a fresh and one-of-kind culture.

Russia offers imperial, Soviet, and modern attractions, as well as an exuberant nature. Most travelers focus their trip around cities like Moscow and St Petersburg. But if you have time, there are many other amazing destinations around Russia, such as cities around the River Volga like Samara and Volgograd, or Sochi, which is both a summer beach resort and a winter ski destination.

How to get an e-visa to Russia
One of the landmarks in the city of Kazan

Before setting off, most visitors will need to get a Russian e-visa. In the past, the visa process to get a visa to Russia was lengthy, bureaucratic, and required you or a representative to visit a consulate in person. Today, it has been streamlined and you can travel to the country with an e-visa.

What Is e-Visa To Russia?

If you want to fly to Russia, you’ll need a visa. Visit the government’s website and check if your country is eligible for an electronic visa to get started on your online application. It will save you from Embassy visits and wasting your time on getting there. 

With an e-visa, you can stay in Russia for up to 8 days and travel for tourism or business. This visa is valid for 30 days,s from the date it was issued, which makes it easy to plan your trip.

e-visa to Russia: find out how to get a Russian evisa
The fountains at Peterhof Palace, near St Petersburg

It can take up to 96 hours for your application to be processed, but most applications are approved in about 3 business days.

Types of Russian e-Visa

There is only one online visa type to Russia that can be distinguished, which is the single-entry e-Visa. It allows you to enter Russia only once for an 8-day stay. You can use it within 1 month from the date it was issued.

As a holder of Russian e-Visa, you can:
  • pay a visit to friends/relatives who live in Russia
  • go to Russia for holidays
  • meet with business partners/participate in business meetings
  • manage any business issues in Russia

Can You Transit Through Russia Visa-Free?

There’s no need to get an online transit visa when you’re traveling through Russia. All you need is a valid passport so that you can wait for your connecting flight to your final destination.

To visit Moscow, you will need an eVisa to Russia:
The River Moskva, one of the main attractions in Moscow

However, bear in mind that when making transit through Russia without a visa, you must stay within the airport’s designated transit zone. Leaving the zone requires you to obtain an e-Visa. Therefore, if you wish to explore Russia before going further to another destination, make sure you have a valid visa.

Which documents are required to apply for a Russian visa online?

Having the following documents at hand will make your application process easy and smooth:

  • The applicant’s passport photograph (complying with the passport photographs requirements) 
  • a confirmation that you have travel insurance covering your trip to the Russian Federation
  • passport valid for at least 6 months, starting from your entry date to Russia.

How Can You Get an e-Visa To Russia?

  1. Open a visa online form: You’ll be asked to provide your full name, date of birth, passport number, expiration date, nationality, the purpose of travel, email address. There are also a few supporting documents to be attached.
  2. Make a payment for your visa application: There is a wide range of online means of payment options you can choose from. Choose only one and cover the fee.
  3. Refresh your email address: The message with a confirmation number should have been already sent there. After maximally 4 business days your visa should reach your inbox too!
How to get a Russian e-visa
Moscow’s Bolshoi Theater at dusk

Important Information About The Russian e-Visa

  • It’s best to apply for an e-Visa to Russia no later than 5 days in advance.
  • You must obtain an e-Visa before arriving in Russia.
  • You can transit through Russia without a visa as long as you won’t leave the transit zone at the airport.
  • Every foreign national from countries outside of the Russian Federation must have a separate online visa to enter the country. One visa can be attached to only one person.
  • You have to print and hand over the Russian electronic visa at the airport upon arrival.
  • It’s not possible to prolong your stay with the Russian e-Visa.
  • Russia’s electronic visa isn’t a work permit.
  • Russian e-visas are not multiple-entry. You can visit the country only once and after leaving, you need a new one to re-enter Russia.

 

Pedro has travelled to almost 120 countries and has made his nest in London. He has also lived in Spain, Australia, the US, Georgia and Turkey. A former hotel management professional, he loves exploring local cultures, is now learning his 8th language and has a soft spot for the Middle East and the CIS countries.