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Russian Visa requirements

The following documents should be submited to the Russian Embassy or Consulate to obtain visa to enter Russia.

NEW REGULATIONS ON A VISA OBTAINING PROCEDURE IN EU COUNTRIES

The Russian consulates located in Europe take 3 to 10 business days for the visa processing. In addition, Russian visas issued by the consulates in Europe now have a five day "waiting period" on entering Russia, i.e. the person can not travel to Russia for at least 5 days after the visa is issued.
This rule has been applied sporadically and it seems to largely depend on a consulate. If your travel plans are urgent, we strongly recommend you to contact the Russian consulate you plan to collect your visa at and make sure that your visa will be available in time.

Russian Tourist Visa

Your original passport with at least 2 blank visa-designated pages (passport must be valid for at least 6 months after intended departure date from Russia).
Two copies of Russian visa application form, completed and signed.
ONE passport-size photo signed on the back.
If Tour Group or Cruise Passenger: Letter from tour company or cruise line confirming itinerary and including a copy of the confirmation from authorized Russian travel company which shows the reference number and confirmation number for the visa.
If Individual Travel: Confirmation of hotel arrangements from authorized Russian travel company, or directly from the Russian hotel, showing reference number and confirmation number for the visa.

Russian Business Single, Double and Multiple-Entry Visa

Your original passport with at least 2 blank visa-designated pages (passport must be valid for at least 6 months after intended departure date from Russia).
Two copies of Russian visa application form, completed and signed.
ONE passport-size photo signed on the back.
For stay exceeding 3 months, or multi entry visa, a HIV test required.
Official invitation from an organization authorized to invite business visitors to Russia.
The Invitation to Russia must be from the Russian Foreign Ministry or its regional representatives; The Ministry of Interior or its local offices; or other authorized Russian Agencies. The letter must contain: official seal and legal address of the agency, signature and name of official authorized to invite foreigners to Russia. The Embassy reserves the right to request the original invitation.

Russian Private or Homestay Visa

Your original passport with at least 2 blank visa-designated pages (passport must be valid for at least 6 months after intended departure date from Russia).
Two copies of Russian visa application form, completed and signed.
ONE passport-size photo signed on the back.
Visa entitlement certificate (IZVESHENIYE) from the local OVIR in Russia. Your host must obtain this certificate for you and send the original certificate to you. Your host will need to know:
Your Full Name;
Address;
Nationality;
Passport Number and Date of Birth;
Your Date of Arrival/Departure in Russia.
(The cost of OVIR application is about USD35. Allow 4-6 weeks for OVIR's approval).