Russia Tourist Visa for Indian: Requirements, Fees & How to Apply

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Russia is a wonderfully diverse travel destination that combines a rich cultural heritage with breathtaking landscapes. For Indian nationals who intend to see Russia's beauty, the first step is to get a tourist visa. Knowledge of the visa process will simplify the application procedure and allow you to have an enjoyable visit to this beautiful land.

Hence, the following guide covers everything you need to know about applying for a Russian tourist visa, from application procedures to documents required and some handy travel tips.

Do Indians Need to Apply for a Russian Tourist Visa?

Yes, individuals travelling from India must apply for a valid visa for Russia to enter this magical country. As an Indian, you must have an approved Russian visa to visit the country for tourism purposes. However, there are speculations that Indians can travel to Russia without a visa, as the bilateral agreement between both countries is expected to take effect as early as spring 2025.

What are the Different Types of Russia Tourist Visas?

The following are the different types of Russia visas for Indian tourists:

E-Visa

The E-visa is valid for 60 days and allows a maximum stay of 16 days. It is designed for a one-time visit, making it ideal for short trips.

Double-Entry Visa

This visa is valid for 30 days and permits a stay of up to 16 days per entry. It allows travellers to enter and exit Russia on two separate occasions within the specified timeframe.

Multiple-Entry Visa

The multiple-entry visa is valid for 180 days and allows for stays of up to 90 days per entry. It is suitable for frequent travellers who need to enter Russia multiple times within that period.

What are the Requirements of a Russia Tourist Visa for Indian Citizens?

The following are the different documents required for a Russia tourist visa from India:

Valid Passport

You should have a valid Indian government-issued passport. The passport should be computer-readable and valid for at least six months after application for the visa.

Digital Photo of Passport Data

Submit a digital photo of the data page of the passport in JPEG format. It must comply with stringent Russian specifications and satisfy all clarity and precision requirements for smooth processing.

Digital Photo of Your Face

Provide a JPEG photo of your face. It should meet the corresponding requirements according to the Russian authorities to allow unobstructed views of facial features.

Sufficient Funds

You must hold a valid bank account with enough balance to cover your stay in Russia.

Valid Travel Insurance

Russia travel insurance is mandatory for Indian applicants seeking a Russia tourist visa. It ensures you are protected against high healthcare costs while in Russia.

What are the Eligibility Criteria for a Russia Tourist Visa for Indians?

The following are the eligibility criteria for Russia tourist visa that you must fulfil before applying for this visa type:

Clearly State Your Purpose of Visit

You must specify clearly why you intend to visit Russia. If a visit is planned for acquaintances, an invitation letter from a Russian resident will be required.

Meeting the Health Criteria

The applicants must provide evidence of good health through a medical test. This prevents the entry of sick persons who may pose health risks while they are in Russia.

Fulfillment of Character Criteria

Applicants may be called upon to provide a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) when required by the authorities that serves as proof of good character.

Being Funded Enough

You must demonstrate you have enough funding for your stay and expenses in Russia during that time. The bank statements or equivalent will serve as proof of financial support during the visit.

How to Get a Russia Tourist Visa from India?

Here is a step-by-step guide you can follow for a Russia tourist visa apply online through ACKO:

Step 1

Click on the link to go to ACKO’s website for visa application.

Step 2

Select Russia as the country you wish to visit.

Step 3

Select the tourist visa type you want to apply for.

Step 4

Fill in the required details on their designated places, including your passport number, name and planned travel dates.

Step 5

Upload the scanned copies of your documents, including your passport, passport-size photographs and other required details.

Step 6

Pay the applicable fees, and you will get your Russia visa on your registered email address once the verification process is completed.

What is the Russia Tourist Visa Processing Time?

The Russia tourist visa processing time can range between 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the workload of the authorities and the type of visa you have applied for. In summary, applicants will need to prepare for a total period of approximately 1 month from the day they plan to visit Russia to receive the requisite visa and permits.

What are the Russia Tourist Visa Fees for Indians?

The following table highlights the Russia tourist visa fees for Indian citizens:

Russia Tourist Visa Type	Fees
E-visa	Rs. 8050
Double Entry Visa	Rs. 6426
Multiple Entry Visa	Rs. 8330

Is There a Visa on Arrival for Russia Tourist Visa for Indians?

No, Indian citizens cannot get a visa on arrival for Russia, no matter the reason for their visit. However, you can apply for a Russia e-visa online beforehand to enter the country for your trip purpose.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Russia Tourist Visas for Indians?

Travel insurance is mandatory for Indian applicants seeking a Russia tourist visa. The insurance must cover medical expenses, including emergency medical treatment and repatriation. It ensures you are protected against high healthcare costs while in Russia.

Final Words

Henceforth, Indian travellers willing to travel to Russia must procure a Russia tourist visa. Understanding the types of visas, eligibility, and required documentation is of utmost importance for a hassle-free application process. With enough preparation and adherence to guidelines, Indian citizens can relish a memorable journey through Russia's rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about a Russia tourist visa:

Who needs a tourist visa to enter Russia?

Most non-Russian citizens, including Indian nationals, require a tourist visa to enter Russia for leisure or sightseeing purposes.

What is the validity period of a Russian tourist visa?

A Russian tourist visa is typically valid for up to 30 days, allowing for single or double entries during that time.

What documents are required for the application?

Essential documents for a Russia tourist visa include a valid passport, passport-sized photos, and proof of medical insurance.

Can I travel to multiple cities in Russia on a tourist visa?

Yes, you can travel to multiple cities within Russia on a single tourist visa as long as it remains valid.

Can I apply for a Russia tourist visa if I have previously been denied?

Yes, you can reapply for a Russia tourist visa after addressing any issues that led to the previous denial.

Is travel insurance required for the Russia visa application?

Yes, proof of valid travel medical insurance is required when applying for a Russian tourist visa.

Are there any specific health requirements for entering Russia?

While there are no mandatory vaccinations, travellers should be in good health and may need to provide medical documentation if requested by Russian authorities.