Russia visas
Whether you need a visa to enter the Russian Federation depends on your nationality and the purpose of your trip: some nationals travel visa-free under bilateral or CIS agreements, some can use the unified electronic visa, and others must obtain a traditional visa supported by an invitation. Entry visas are issued through the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and Russian embassies and consulates, while residence permits, work permits and citizenship are handled by the Main Directorate for Migration Affairs of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (GUVM MVD). Always confirm the current rules for your nationality with the official MFA consular service before you travel or apply.
Russian visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Russia — tourism, visiting family or friends, business visits and transit, plus any visa-free or e-visa options.4 visas
- Work visasComing to Russia to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.2 visas
- Study visasStudying in Russia — student visas and permits for accepted students.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a partner, child or other relative in Russia.1 visa
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Russia as a highly skilled individual.1 visa
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Russia long term — residence routes and, where available, the path to citizenship.3 visas
Russian visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Russia — key facts
- Visa authority
- Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation (visas); Main Directorate for Migration Affairs of the Ministry of Internal Affairs / GUVM MVD (residence, work permits and citizenship)
- Application
- Online (in most cases)
- Biometrics
- Usually required
- Currency
- Russian ruble (RUB)
- Time zone
- Moscow Standard Time (MSK, UTC+3) — Russia spans 11 time zones
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.