Indian citizens can apply for an e-Visa to travel to Russia for tourism.

• Government fee Set by the destination and charged when you submit the e-Visa application.
• Processing / card charge Some official portals add a small payment-handling charge on top.
• Third-party sites Unofficial sites charge far more for the same application — always apply on the official portal.

We deliberately do not publish fee amounts: they differ by visa type and nationality and change often, and a stale number is worse than none. Check the current amount on the official source.

• PassportMust be valid for at least 6 months from the date of e-Visa application and have at least one blank page for stamps.
• Digital PhotographA recent color photograph meeting specific requirements (e.g., 35x45 mm, plain light background, no headwear unless for religious reasons).
• Travel Medical Insurance PolicyValid for the entire period of stay in the Russian Federation and covering the entire territory of the Russian Federation.

1. 1
   Access the official Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-Visa portal.

   e-Visa Application Portal
2. 2
   Fill out the electronic visa application form accurately and completely.
3. 3
   Upload your digital photograph according to the specified requirements.
4. 4
   Pay the consular fee online using a bank card.
5. 5
   Wait for the e-Visa decision. Processing typically takes up to 4 calendar days.
6. 6
   Upon approval, you will receive an e-Visa confirmation by email. Print it or save it on your mobile device to present upon entry to Russia.

• Incomplete or inaccurate application form

  How to avoid: Double-check all information entered on the application form for accuracy and completeness before submission. Ensure names, dates, and passport details match your passport exactly.

• Passport not meeting validity requirements or damaged

  How to avoid: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your e-Visa application and is in good condition with no damage or missing pages.

• Digital photograph not meeting specifications

  How to avoid: Carefully review the photo requirements (size, background, facial expression, headwear) on the official e-Visa portal and ensure your uploaded photo adheres to them strictly.

• Lack of valid travel medical insurance

  How to avoid: Obtain a travel medical insurance policy that is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Russia and covers the entire territory of the Russian Federation, as required.

• Previous violations of Russian visa regulations

  How to avoid: Ensure you have no history of overstaying previous Russian visas or violating immigration laws, as this can lead to future visa rejections.

• Register your visa: If staying longer than 7 working days, your host (hotel or private individual) must register your visa with the local migration office. Keep proof of registration.
• Carry copies of documents: Always keep copies of your passport, visa, and migration card separately from the originals.
• Learn basic Russian phrases: While English is spoken in major tourist areas, knowing some basic Russian phrases can be very helpful and appreciated.
• Be aware of local laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs, especially regarding public conduct and photography near government buildings.

• Can I extend my e-Visa once I am in Russia?

  No, the unified electronic visa cannot be extended. You must depart Russia before your permitted stay expires.

• Can I work in Russia with an e-Visa?

  No, the unified electronic visa is issued for tourism, business, private visits, or humanitarian purposes. It does not permit employment or any other professional activity.

• What if my e-Visa application is rejected?

  If your e-Visa application is rejected, you may apply for a traditional visa through a Russian Embassy or Consulate, or re-apply for an e-Visa if the reason for rejection can be addressed. There is no appeal process for e-Visa rejections.

• Do I need a separate transit visa if I have an e-Visa?

  The e-Visa is for entry into Russia for the specified purposes. If you are only transiting through Russia to another country and remain in the international transit zone of the airport, you generally do not need a visa. However, if your transit requires you to leave the transit zone or involves an overnight stay, a transit visa or an e-Visa (if applicable for your nationality and purpose) might be required. Always verify with the airline and official sources.

• Which entry points can I use with an e-Visa?

  The unified electronic visa is valid for entry into and exit from the Russian Federation through air, sea, and land checkpoints listed on the official e-Visa portal. Always check the updated list of entry points on the official website before travel.

• My passport expires in 5 months - can I still apply for Russia?

  For an e-Visa to Russia, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your e-Visa application. It must also have sufficient blank pages for any stamps. Please ensure your passport meets these requirements before applying.

• I'm traveling next week, is it too late to apply for an e-Visa?

  The processing time for a Russian e-Visa can vary, but it is generally recommended to apply at least 4 days before your intended travel date. While some applications may be processed quicker, there is no guarantee of approval within a very short timeframe. It is advisable to apply as soon as your travel plans are firm.

• I am self-employed, what documents do I need to show for my e-Visa application?

  As a self-employed Indian citizen applying for a Russian e-Visa, you typically need to provide proof of your financial stability and occupation. This may include bank statements or business registration documents. Always refer to the official e-Visa portal for the most up-to-date and specific document requirements for self-employed applicants.

• I am traveling to Russia with my child, do they need their own e-Visa?

  Yes, every individual, including children, must have their own valid e-Visa to enter Russia. Each child will require a separate e-Visa application, even if they are traveling with their parents. Ensure all required documents for minors are prepared for their application.

• My travel dates changed after my e-Visa was issued, what should I do?

  A Russian e-Visa is issued for a specific period and allows a single entry within that timeframe. If your travel dates change significantly, you might need to apply for a new e-Visa if the new dates fall outside the validity period of your current visa. Always check the validity dates on your issued e-Visa and the official guidelines for any changes.

• How much does a Russia visa cost for Indian citizens?

  You pay online when you apply. The total is usually the government e-Visa fee plus any card or processing charge. Government fee: Set by the destination and charged when you submit the e-Visa application. Processing / card charge: Some official portals add a small payment-handling charge on top. Third-party sites: Unofficial sites charge far more for the same application — always apply on the official portal. Fees change regularly, so confirm the current amount on the official source linked on this page before you apply.

• Do I need a separate visa for Moscow, or does this cover all of Russia?

  You do not need a separate visa for any individual city. Entry rules are set nationally, not city by city, so a Russia visa is valid for the whole country — including Moscow, St. Petersburg, Golden Ring cities and Lake Baikal. Apply once for Russia and you can travel anywhere inside it, up to the permitted length of stay.