Consular fee
$160
Processing
5-10 days
Invitation
from $19
e-Visa
Available
Step-by-Step Guide
Determine your visa type
For tourism — tourist visa (up to 30 days). For business — business visa (up to 1 year). Consular fee: $160.
Get an invitation letter
Order a visa invitation online at iVisaOnline.com. Tourist invitation from $19 — delivered to your email in 5 minutes.
Gather documents
Valid passport (6+ months validity), completed application form, photo 3.5×4.5 cm, invitation letter, travel insurance.
Submit your application
Book an appointment at the Russian consulate in Washington or visa center. Submit documents in person or through a representative.
Receive your visa
Processing time: 5-10 business days. Express processing in 1-3 days available for an additional fee.
Russia Entry Options Comparison
Which visa type is right for you
| Criteria | Regular Visa | Electronic Visa (e-Visa) | Visa-Free Entry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Available | Available | Not available |
| Max. stay | up to 30 days | up to 16 days | — |
| Processing time | 5-10 business days | 5 minutes online | — |
| Cost | $160 + from $19 | $40 | — |
| Invitation required | Yes | No | — |
| Multiple entry | Yes | No | — |
| For business | Yes | No | — |
✅ Data verified as of May 2026. Source: Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Consular fee: $160. e-Visa: available. Visa-free: not available.
Since 2022, obtaining a Russian visa for US citizens has become more complex. The Russian Embassy in Washington continues operations, but appointment wait times have increased. We recommend applying 2-3 months before your trip.
Travel Tips
Registration upon arrival
Foreign citizens must register within 7 business days of arrival. Hotels do this automatically. If staying privately, register through the local migration office or post office.
Currency and payments
Russia uses the ruble (₽). Visa/Mastercard cards issued in the USA do not work in Russia since 2022. We recommend bringing cash dollars and exchanging at a bank upon arrival.