Russian visa resources
How to apply for a Russian visa
The general steps for obtaining a Russian visa, from securing an invitation or e-visa to submitting your application at a consulate.
Important
Most Russian visa categories (tourist, business, private, work, study) require an official invitation before you can apply. Invitations are issued by Russian tour operators, host organisations, employers or individuals, and are confirmed either by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or by the Ministry of Internal Affairs (GUVM MVD), depending on the visa type.
With an invitation in hand you complete the electronic visa application form on the MFA consular portal, print it, and submit it with your passport, a photo and supporting documents to a Russian embassy, consulate or authorised visa centre. Biometric data (fingerprints) may be collected at submission.
Nationals of eligible countries can instead apply for the unified electronic visa entirely online through the official portal evisa.kdmid.ru, without an invitation or supporting documents. Citizens of visa-free states do not apply for a visa at all but must observe permitted stay limits and migration registration rules on arrival.
General application steps
- Determine the correct visa category for your purpose of travel and check whether you are eligible for the e-visa or visa-free entry.
- Obtain the required invitation (telex/reference number or original letter) where the category requires one.
- Complete the official electronic visa application form on the MFA consular website.
- Submit your passport, photo, application form and supporting documents to a Russian embassy, consulate or visa centre.
- Pay the consular fee and collect the visa, then complete migration registration after arrival in Russia.
Next steps
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.