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Russia
In general
For entering the country a valid international passport is required. It has to be valid throughout the intended stay.
A visa is required by all except the following nations:
- Former USSR countries (except nationals of Georgia and Turkmenistan who need a visa if they intend to visit Russia) as long as they are traveling from their home countries
- Cuba for a stay up to 30 days
- Mongolia (only with an invitation letter)
- Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia and Serbia & Montenegro only for business travellers
Validity
Dependent on purpose of trip. Transit visas are valid for up to three days.
Visa application
In order to apply for a visa for Russia one has to submit the following documents:
- A valid international passport (valid at least six months beyond intended stay)
- A recent passport photo (with your name written on the back of the photo
- Application form (available online)
- Visa fee in cash or by post order
- A return ticket or ticket for your onward journey to another country
- A letter of invitation from the employer (company) specifying the reason for the trip and the length of stay (for business visa only)
- A travel confirmation from a Russian or local travel agency
For the different types of visas some additional documents might be required. Please ask for further information at your local Russian Embassy.
Please note
Lost Passport/Visa: You cannot leave the country without a valid visa and passport. In case that you have lost your visa during your trip you need a new Russian visa that can be obtained at authorized agencies.
Migration card: Foreigners travelling to Russia receive a migration card with their personal data (names, type of visa, length and purpose of stay as well as their current accommodation). The completed card has to be presented to the police authorities after three days.