Tourist Visa to Russia for Foreign Citizens
A tourist visa is the most popular visa type for foreign citizens visiting Russia. It allows a stay of up to 30 days with single or double entry.
Requirements: tourist invitation (voucher + hotel confirmation), valid passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages), application form, photo (3.5×4.5 cm), travel insurance.
The tourist invitation can be ordered online and received via email within 5 minutes. Cost: from $19. Accepted by all Russian consulates worldwide.
Consulate processing: standard 4–20 business days, express 1–3 business days. Consular fee depends on nationality ($50–160 for most countries).
Limitations: maximum 30 days, no extension possible, no employment allowed, must exit before expiration. For longer stays, consider a business visa.
Best for: short tourism trips, city sightseeing, cultural events, Trans-Siberian Railway journeys, cruise ship stops.
