Expedited Russian Visa Application. Russian Visa Service | Visa Express

THE FAST AND EASY WAY TO GET A VISA TO RUSSIA

Russian Visa Application & Requirements

THE FAST AND EASY WAY TO GET A VISA TO RUSSIA

ON RESUMING VISA ISSUANCE

Starting from June 28, 2021, the Russian consulate in the United States has resumed the issuance of visas of all categories, including tourist visas. However, please note that these visas are only available to U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries who possess U.S. Green Cards.

 

Russian Tourist Visa Application Requirements
Gather and send the following documents to Visa Express:

If you’re a U.S. national planning to visit Russia for tourism, whether it’s for excursions, sightseeing, cultural events, or any other form of tourism, you’ll need a Russian visa. Here are the key requirements to obtain a Russian tourist visa:

Invitation and Voucher

This is the initial document you’ll need to initiate the Russian visa application process. It’s also referred to as the visa support document, and it contains essential information required to complete the visa application form. You can obtain this document after confirming your booking with a Russian hotel, cruise ship, or a rented apartment. Be sure to request both confirmation and a voucher. If you plan to stay at multiple locations, request this document from each place you intend to visit. Note that there is no specific standard format for these documents. You can also order the invitation/voucher through our service.

Passport

  • Your passport plays a crucial role, so make sure it meets the following requirements:

– It must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry.

– It should have a minimum of two blank visa pages, which are specifically designated for visa stamps. Endorsement and amendment pages do not qualify for this requirement.

Photographs

  • You’ll need a recent passport-sized photograph that adheres to the following specifications:

– White background.

– Dimensions: 2 inches by 2 inches.

– Neutral expression (no smiling).

– Full-frontal view with your face centered.

– No eyeglasses or headwear, with exceptions for religious purposes.

– The photo must not be affixed to the application, and any signs of adhesive or staples will disqualify it.

Application Form

Complete and sign the Russian visa application form. You can access it [here]. This form, hosted by the Foreign Ministry in Russia, requires detailed information. Make sure to select “UNITED STATES” as your country from the drop-down menu. Also, specify “Russia Visa Center Houston” as the visa issuing office based on the state that will process your visa. Provide accurate answers to all fields, and ensure that your name matches your passport. For minors below 18 years, a parent’s signature is required.

Notarized Authorization letter

click here to access the Authorization Letter, which must be notarized. This letter authorizes our company to submit your Russian visa application on your behalf.

Three-Year Multiple Entry Visa Option

  • If you wish to apply for a three-year multiple-entry Russian visa, here are the application guidelines:

Indicate “Multiple Entry” in the number of entries on your Russian visa application form.

Ensure the Entry and Departure Dates from Russia cover three years, based on your Confirmation and Voucher. For example, if your Confirmation and Voucher start on 12/01/2020 (Date of Entry), the departure date must be 11/30/2023, not the date you’ll depart as listed on the Confirmation and Voucher.

Former USSR or Russia Nationals:

Individuals who were formerly nationals of the USSR or Russia may need to provide various documents for specific purposes. Below are the documents that may be required, along with their respective purposes:

  • Copy of USSR Passport with Departure Stamp (Pre-February 6, 1992):

This document proves your departure from the USSR before February 6, 1992, for permanent residence abroad.

  • Copy of Visa to Israel (Pre-February 6, 1992):

If you emigrated to Israel from the USSR before February 6, 1992, a copy of the visa issued during that time period serves as evidence of your historical immigration status.

  • Copy of Certificate of Naturalization (Pre-1996):

This certificate signifies your acquisition of citizenship in a foreign country through the process of naturalization. It is essential for confirming your legal status as a citizen of another nation.

  • Document Confirming Renunciation of Russian Citizenship:

If you have officially renounced your Russian citizenship, providing documentation of this renunciation is necessary to confirm that you are no longer a Russian citizen.

  • Copy of the Main Pages of Passport from Former USSR State (Post-February 1992):

If you possess a passport from a former USSR state that was issued after February 1992, a copy of the main pages is required to establish your current citizenship status

These documents are often used in immigration, legal, or administrative contexts to confirm your nationality or immigration history. Depending on the specific situation or institution requesting these documents, the requirements may vary, so it’s advisable to verify with the relevant authorities what documents are needed for your particular case.

According to Russian law, visas cannot be issued to Russian citizens with expired passports. Additionally, it’s important to note that, as per Article 12 of the Russian law “On citizenship of the Russian Federation,” children born to two parents who are Russian citizens automatically acquire Russian citizenship, regardless of their place of birth.

Minors

Minors applying for a Russian Visa must provide copies of a valid Birth Certificate and valid copies of passports from both parents.

Processing Time and Fees

PROCESSING TIME VALIDITY CONSULATE FEE SERVICE FEE TOTAL COST
18 business days MULTIPLE  $293 $109 $402
15 business days MULTIPLE  $293 $179 $472
8 business days MULTIPLE  $293 $249 $542

Visa Express Order Form:

Complete the online order form [click here]. Input your personal information, order details, and payment information. After entering your data, click “Place Order” to generate the completed order form. Print it, sign it, and send it along with the required documents to the address specified on the order confirmation page.

russian-visa-business

Russian Business Visa Application Requirements

If you plan to travel to Russia for official or private business purposes, you’ll need a Russian business visa. This type of visa is also required for those who intend to stay in Russia for more than 90 days, those without specific itineraries, and travelers who wish to visit Russia multiple times within a certain period.

Here are the requirements for US citizens traveling to Russia for business purposes:

Russian Business Invitation

  • To apply for a Russian business visa, you must provide an official invitation letter from Russia. This document is crucial for your visa application. You can obtain a Russian business invitation letter through Visa Express. If you have an invitation from the Russian government, you need to submit the original copy. However, electronic invitations do not require the original. It’s important to apply for your visa in the city where the Telex was approved, which may not be the same as where your visa is processed.
  • For those with direct invitations from host companies in Russia, the letter must adhere to the following criteria:

– The letter must be in Russian on the company’s letterhead.

– Address it to the Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Houston.

– It must bear the official company seal.

– Include the full name of the host organization with a verifiable address and the full name of the signatory.

– For legal enterprises, provide the taxpayer identification number.

– The letter should request a 3-year multiple-entry Russian visa, including the applicant’s details, reason for travel, intended destination, places to be visited, and the duration of the stay.

– Specify the exact date range for the 36-month visa.

– Display the Tax ID number of the Russian company.

– Include a signature, stamp, and date of the company’s director with the full name and position.

You can obtain Russian business invitation through us, check out the processing time and fees below:

Russian Business Invitation Processing Time & Fee

5 business days 2 business days 1 busines day
$99 $149 $199

Passport

You need to send your original signed passport with the following requirements:

  • Two blank visa pages marked “Visas” side by side.
  • Passport expiration date must not exceed six months.
  • Submit any former valid Russian visa, regardless of whether it’s in an expired or canceled passport.
  • If you’ve lost or had a valid Russian visa stolen, provide a police report.
  • For single-entry visas, one blank visa page is required. For multiple-entry visas, at least two blank visa pages are needed.

Photographs

You’ll need a recent passport-sized photograph with these specifications:

  • No older than six months, printed on high-quality photo paper.
  • White background.
  • Dimensions: 2 inches by 2 inches.
  • Neutral expression (no smiling).
  • Full-frontal view with your face centered.
  • No eyeglasses or headwear, except for religious purposes.
  • Do not affix the photo to the application; any signs of adhesive or staples will disqualify it.

Application Form

Complete and sign the Russian visa application form online [click here ]. This application is hosted by the Foreign Ministry in Russia and requires detailed information. Remember to write down the application password on the top of the printed form.

  • Select “UNITED STATES” as your country from the drop-down menu.
  • Specify the visa issuing office based on your state: “Russia Visa Center Houston.” Applications without “Russia Visa Center” will not be accepted.
  • Provide authentic answers to all fields.
  • Your name should match your passport.
  • List all places you intend to visit in Russia.
  • Print the application, sign it in the specified box. For minors under 18, a parent must sign.

Notarized Authorization letter

Click here to access the Authorization Letter, which must be notarized. This letter authorizes our company to submit your Russian visa application on your behalf.

Former USSR or Russia Nationals:

  • Individuals who were formerly nationals of the USSR or Russia may need to provide various documents for specific purposes. Below are the documents that may be required, along with their respective purposes:

    1. Copy of USSR Passport with Departure Stamp (Pre-February 6, 1992):

      • This document proves your departure from the USSR before February 6, 1992, for permanent residence abroad.
    2. Copy of Visa to Israel (Pre-February 6, 1992):

      • If you emigrated to Israel from the USSR before February 6, 1992, a copy of the visa issued during that time period serves as evidence of your historical immigration status.
    3. Copy of Certificate of Naturalization (Pre-1996):

      • This certificate signifies your acquisition of citizenship in a foreign country through the process of naturalization. It is essential for confirming your legal status as a citizen of another nation.
    4. Document Confirming Renunciation of Russian Citizenship:

      • If you have officially renounced your Russian citizenship, providing documentation of this renunciation is necessary to confirm that you are no longer a Russian citizen.
    5. Copy of the Main Pages of Passport from Former USSR State (Post-February 1992):

      • If you possess a passport from a former USSR state that was issued after February 1992, a copy of the main pages is required to establish your current citizenship status.

    These documents are often used in immigration, legal, or administrative contexts to confirm your nationality or immigration history. Depending on the specific situation or institution requesting these documents, the requirements may vary, so it’s advisable to verify with the relevant authorities what documents are needed for your particular case.

Processing Time and Fees

PROCESSING TIME VALIDITY CONSULATE FEE SERVICE FEE TOTAL COST
18 business days MULTIPLE  $293 $109 $402
15 business days MULTIPLE  $293 $179 $472
8 business days MULTIPLE  $293 $249 $542

Visa Express Order Form:

Complete the online order form [click here]. Input your personal information, order details, and payment information. After entering your data, click “Place Order” to generate the completed order form. Print it, sign it, and send it along with the required documents to the address specified on the order confirmation page.

Russian Private Visa Application Requirements

A Russian private visa is designed for foreigners who wish to visit Russia for personal reasons such as seeing friends and family. To apply for a private Russian visa, you must have an invitation, which can be obtained in the following ways:

Invitation

  • Official invitation from the Russian Federation OR
  • An invitation letter from a Russian citizen based in the US, addressed to the Consulate of Russia on behalf of the applicant (relative, friend, spouse, or minor). The invitation letter should be supported by:

i. A copy of the Russian internal passport of the inviter.

ii. A copy of the registration stamp inside the Russian passport.

iii. A copy of the marriage certificate or birth certificate of the child.

For a three-year visa, you’ll need:

  • A notarized written statement prepared on a notary blank by the hosting party in Russia. This document should include details of the host, such as full name (first, middle, and last name), citizenship, date of birth, sex, registration address, passport number, and the actual address of the host.

Alternatively:

  • A written invitation that is notarized by Russian citizens based in the USA. This letter should be accompanied by an authentic Russian internal passport, Russian foreign passport, and a US passport or green card. The invitation should contain the applicant’s full name (last, middle, and first name), sex, date of birth, citizenship, visa multiplicity, passport number, the purpose of the trip, visa length revealing the full three-year period (e.g., Entry date of 23/08/2020 until departure date 22/08/2023), the host’s proposed address of residence in Russia, and the proposed cities to visit.

Passport

  • Submit your original passport with at least six months of validity before expiration. Ensure there are at least two blank visa pages available for the Russian visa stamp.

Photographs

Provide a recent passport-sized photograph with the following specifications:

  • No older than three months, printed on high-quality photo paper.
  • White background.
  • Dimensions: 2 inches by 2 inches.
  • Neutral expression (no smiling).
  • Full-frontal view with your facial features aligned in the middle.
  • No eyeglasses or headwear, except for religious purposes.
  • Do not attach the photo to the application; any evidence of adhesive or staples will disqualify the photo.

Application Form

  • All applicants must complete the Russian visa application form online. Registration generates a Declarant ID and a password, providing access to the application portal.
  • Provide accurate information in your application, as honesty and accuracy are crucial for a successful application. Visa Express offers an Application Pre-Check service to review your application for errors before the final submission. The Russian visa application form is available online here.

Notarized Authorization letter

  • Click here to access the Authorization Letter, which must be notarized to authorize Visa Express to submit your Russian visa application on your behalf.

Processing Time and Fees

PROCESSING TIME VALIDITY CONSULATE FEE SERVICE FEE TOTAL COST
18 business days MULTIPLE $293 $109 $402
15 business days MULTIPLE $293 $179 $472
8 business days MULTIPLE $293 $249 $542

Visa Express Order Form:

Complete the online order form [click here]. Input your personal information, order details, and payment information. After entering your data, click “Place Order” to generate the completed order form. Print it, sign it, and send it along with the required documents to the address specified on the order confirmation page.

russian-visa-faq

FAQ – Visa For Russia

One of the favorite destinations of travelers and tourists around the world is Russia. Russia is a beautiful country located on a vast expanse of land with many attractions for people all over the world. While Russia welcomes some nationalities into its soil without a visa, one needs to have an invitation to apply.
A Russian Visa is an official document that gives one permission to enter Russia and stay for a given period. The visa is issued for various reasons ranging from business, tourism, research, etc. The visa is a document affixed to the passport. There is different information on the visa, like the duration of stay, the number of entries and exits allowed, and information about your trip.

It is essential for visitors into Russia to keep their visa even when on Russian soil. Getting out of Russia without a passport could be pretty much harder than entering Russia.

This article sheds light on various questions people might have as regards Russian Visa.

With the exception of Turkmenistan and Georgia, some citizens of the former CIS Republic can enter Russia with their national passports. Besides that, most foreigners, including travelers from the U.S., will need a visa to Russia.

People going through Russia to other countries might not need a Russia visa since they will likely not leave the airport. However, one needs a visa if one has to leave the airport, even if it is for a sleepover. Transferring to another airport to continue your journey might require a passport.

No. If you are entering Russia for whatever purpose, it is essential to have a valid U.S. Visa and a genuine Visa that you got from the Russian Embassy or Consulate of your country. You cannot get a Russia visa at the port of entry, so it is good to apply for your visa on time.

Typically, a Russian visa is valid for up to 30 days. U.S. Citizens can get a valid visa valid for three years with the opportunity to stay for 90 days from every 180 days on their Russian Visa.

No, the Russian consulate does not accept applications by mail. Anyone interested in entering Russia can contact us at Visa Express to help with the Russian Visa application process, even if your place is far from the Russian Consulate.

No. While you might present both your new and old passport at the border, the only valid visa is the new passport with the correct visa. If the passport is expired or canceled, the visa is not valid.

Travelers to Russia on a Tourist Visa have a month validity, and holders get either a single or a double entry and exit. On the other hand, business visas are valid for a maximum of 36 months, which could allow holders to enter and exit Russia multiple times.

A US passport holder can stay in Russia for as much as 180 days.

There is no opportunity to extend a tourist or business visa while on Russian soil.

Russian visa takes a minimum of 8 working days and three weeks at most. The length, most time, is a factor like a visa you need. It is important to note that processing days are working days only and does not include holidays, postal time, or weekends.

You have to submit your original passport for your Russian visa application.

Depending on the visa you need, your Russian Visa will take between 8 to 30 working days. Also, the cost is a factor of the nature of the visa and the processing time you want.

Weekends, U.S. public holidays, Russian public holidays, etc., are not counted as part of the processing days.

The consulate fee for the Russian visa is $198

One needs a tourist invitation letter as it is one of the essential official documents one need to process a Russian Visa. It is not a real visa, but it must be submitted alongside other documents when applying for a Russia visa.

All foreign nationals entering Russia must register their visa on arrival within seven days. This does not include weekends and official holidays.

Your point of registration is where you will stay – the exact place you will live. This could be a hotel or an apartment.  To register your visa, you must present important documents like migration cards and your passports to the apartment owner or hotel admin.

One can also register a visa at the local Federal Migration Service or the local post office nearest to you. The receiving party will give you a copy of the notification form after registering you.

However, for people who will stay in Russia for less than seven days, they might not need to register their visa.

No. There is no opportunity to extend a Russian visa, whether business or tourist visa. However, you might need an exit visa if your stay is more than what you have on your visa. If this happens, make sure to contact us at Visa express to help you with detailed information and the paperwork you need to leave Russia.

No, you cannot

The Russian government authorizes only the Russian consulate in foreign countries to handle the processing of Russia Visa. The visa cannot be processed on Russian soil.

However, some people might prefer to send their passports to their home country from Russia using FedEx. You can get in touch with us at Visa Express for necessary steps on how to go about this.