Russia has formally opened its brand-new unified e-visa application system to nationals of 57 countries, including Austria, India, Japan, China, France, Saudi Arabia, and more, marking a significant advancement for international mobility. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched this digital visa program, which would enable visitors to enter Russia for a maximum of 16 days with a single-entry e-visa without requiring the submission of conventional documentation such as hotel confirmations or invitation letters.
A New Era for International Visitors has started!
By applying online, citizens of the qualifying countries—which include those in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East—can now travel to Russia for leisure, business, personal visits, or cultural events. The unified e-visa is one of the most effective travel authorization systems in the area since it guarantees approval in as little as four calendar days and minimizes paperwork.
Eligible Countries Include:
Vietnam, Sweden, Kuwait, Bhutan, North Macedonia, Vatican, Jordan, Spain, Lithuania, Tonga, Indonesia, Monaco, Ireland, Portugal, Liechtenstein, Czech Republic, Kenya, Philippines, China, Turkmenistan, Cyprus, Norway, Trinidad and Tobago, Iceland, Romania, India, Finland, Croatia, Iran, France, North Korea, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Austria, Malaysia, Saint Lucia, Malta, Myanmar, Germany, Japan, Estonia, Singapore, Eswatini, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Belgium, San Marino, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Greece, Hungary, Denmark, Latvia, Oman, Cambodia, Poland, Slovenia, Bahrain, Papua New Guinea, Italy, and Mexico.
What the Unified E-Visa Offers?
Stay Up to 16 Days
- permits guests to spend up to 16 days in Russia.
- Applicable to private visits, business travel, tourism, and event attendance.
Valid for 60 Days from Issue
- The e-visa must be utilized within 60 days of being issued.
- The 16-day stay starts at arrival, and entry must take place within this window of time.
Freedom to Travel Within Russia
- With the exception of a few limited or restricted areas, you are free to travel anywhere throughout Russia.
- Excellent for visiting several cities and regions without obtaining extra permissions.
No Supporting Documents Required
- Unlike traditional visas, the Unified E-Visa does not require:
- An invitation letter
- A hotel booking confirmation
- A detailed explanation of travel purpose
How to Apply?
Eligible travelers from approved countries can apply online without visiting an embassy.
Application Timeline
Apply between 4 and 40 days before your planned travel date.
Required Documents
- Valid Passport
- Must be machine-readable and valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date.
- Digital Photos
- A scan of your passport’s photo page
- A recent passport-style photo (in JPEG format)
- Medical Insurance
- Must cover your entire stay in the Russian Federation
- Exceptions apply only to travelers from certain countries.
- Bank Card for Payment
- Used to pay the e-visa fee
- Children under 6 years old are exempt from the fee
Submission Process
- Go to the official portal: https://evisa.kdmid.ru/
- Fill out the online form with your personal details and travel information, and upload required documents.
- Submit and pay the visa fee online.
Conclusion
The introduction of the unified e-visa system by Russia represents a significant advancement in the simplification of international travel. This program provides new opportunities for visitors, business travelers, and culture seekers with a simplified application process, fast acceptance, and no requirement for supporting documentation. Eligible tourists now have a simpler method to discover Russia’s immense beauty and rich history, whether they are planning a work trip or a vacation. Start your Russian experience now by submitting an online application!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the new unified e-visa to Russia?
Nationals from 57 eligible countries, including India, China, France, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Austria, and many others, can apply for the e-visa.
What is the duration of stay allowed with the e-visa?
The e-visa allows a single-entry stay of up to 16 days in Russia.
