Business & investor visas
Russian Business Visa
A visa for business travel such as meetings, negotiations and contracts, without the right to take up employment in Russia.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Business-visa entry options and maximum validity/stay periods (which vary by nationality) were not confirmed on an official page during research; verify with the MFA consular service.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Russia government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Business visa
- Route type
- Commercial/business visitor visa (no employment)
- Entries
- Single, double or multiple entry
- Invitation
- Business invitation from the MFA or MVD
- Number of entries
- Single, double or multiple entry
- Validity
- Single/double up to 3 months; multiple-entry up to 1 year (up to 3 years for some nationalities under bilateral agreements)
- Figures not verified against the official mid.ru source in this pass
- Maximum stay
- Multiple-entry holders: no more than 90 days within any 180-day period
- Figure not verified against the official mid.ru source in this pass
- Where to apply
- Russian embassy, consulate or authorised visa centre
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals attending meetings, negotiations, conferences or signing contracts in Russia.
- Business travellers who need multiple entries over a longer period.
- Not for taking up paid employment — that requires a work visa.
Requirements
- A business invitation from an authorised Russian organisation, processed by the MFA or MVD.
- A valid passport, application form and photo.
- Supporting company or purpose documents where required.
How to apply
- Obtain an official business invitation from your Russian host or company (via the MVD or MFA).
- Complete the visa application form on the Russian Consular Department portal.
- Submit the form, passport, photo and invitation to a Russian embassy, consulate or authorised visa centre.
- Pay the consular fee and collect the visa.
Documents you may need
- Signed passport valid for 6+ months with two blank visa pages
- Completed visa application form
- One passport photo, 3.5 x 4.5 cm
- Original or electronic official business invitation
- Medical insurance, where required
Frequently asked questions
No. A business visa covers business activities such as negotiations, conferences and meetings. Taking up paid employment requires a work visa, which is a separate category with its own permit and invitation.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.