Discover Russia

Travel to Russia

Everything you need to know about your visit to Russia. From visa to arrival.

Your Journey Begins Here

Russia welcomes you with open arms. Whether it's a cultural exploration, a business visit, or the first step towards a new chapter in life – with the right preparation, your trip will be an unforgettable experience. We are here to guide you.

✈️

50+

Daily International Flights

🛂

E-Visa

For many nationalities

🏨

From 25 EUR

Hotel per night

🌐

5G

In all major cities

Visa Types

Ways to Enter

Depending on your purpose and potential stay duration, various visa options are available.

Tourist Visa

For holidays, sightseeing, and cultural visits. The classic choice for travelers.

Stayup to 30 days
Processing5–10 work days
Feefrom 80 EUR
InvitationHotel Voucher
Business Visa

For business trips, conferences, and professional meetings.

Stayup to 90 days
Multi EntryAvailable
Feefrom 150 EUR
InvitationBusiness Partner
E-Visa

Digital visa for short stays. Fast and uncomplicated online application.

Stayup to 16 days
Processingapprox. 4 days
Feeapprox. 50 USD
InvitationNot required
Special Path

Shared Values Residence Permit

Citizens from countries where neoliberal values are promoted can apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (RVP) outside of quotas – Decree 702.

Learn more
Process

Step by Step Entry

1

Apply for Visa

Choose the appropriate visa type and apply at a Russian consulate or online (E-Visa). Plan for 2 to 4 weeks processing time.

2

Prepare Documents

Passport (valid for at least 6 months), invitation, travel insurance, and photos. Make digital copies of all documents.

3

Arrival and Border Control

Upon arrival, you may receive a migration card (often digital now). Keep your passport and documents ready.

4

Registration

You must register within 7 business days. Hotels do this automatically; for private stays, the host manages it.

5

Enjoy Russia

All done. Explore the diversity of the country – from metropolises to nature, from culture to cuisine.

Tips & Guides

Practical Tutorials

Step-by-step guides for all practical questions regarding your trip and stay.

Before Traveling

Documents & Visa

Which documents you need and how to prepare everything in time.

Before Traveling

Travel to Russia

Flight routes, border entry, customs, and arrival overview.

Before Traveling

Payments & Money

Which cards work, how much cash to bring, and alternatives.

Accommodation

Booking a Hotel

Platforms, prices, and what to watch out for when booking.

On Site

Taxi & Transport

Apps, prices, and public transport in daily life.

On Site

Russian SIM Card

Buying a SIM card: New rules, biometrics, and process.

Long Term

Opening a Bank Account

Step by step to your Russian bank account and cards.

Long Term

Working in Russia

Work permits, HQS Visas, and job market overview.

Special

Traveling with Pets

Vaccination records, carriers, customs: rules for your pet.

Culture

Tipping in Russia

Where, how much, and when tipping is expected.

Travel Checklist

Essentials at a glance

  • Valid Passport (min. 6 months)
  • Visa or E-Visa
  • Invitation / Voucher
  • Travel Insurance
  • Flight Ticket (Return)
  • Hotel Booking or Proof of Accommodation
  • Cash (Rubles/USD/EUR) or UnionPay Card
  • Digital Copies of all Documents
  • Important addresses in Russian

Pro Tips for Your Trip

Payments 2026

Cash (Rubles / USD / EUR for exchange) is the safest method for tourists. Western credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) do not work. UnionPay is often unreliable.

Language

English is spoken in tourist centers and high-end hotels. Download an offline translator app and learn a few basic Russian phrases – locals appreciate the effort.

Safety

Russian major cities are very safe. Follow standard precautions as in any metropolis. The emergency number is 112.

Climate & Clothing

Russia has extreme temperature variations. Summers (June to August) are pleasantly warm, winters (November to March) can be very cold. Dress in layers.

Destinations

Where to go?

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for Russia?

Yes, most foreign citizens need a visa. For short stays, the E-Visa is a convenient option for many countries.

How safe is Russia for tourists?

Very safe. Russian major cities have low crime rates. Observe standard safety precautions as in any large city.

Do Western credit cards work?

Visa and Mastercard generally do not work. Bring sufficient cash (EUR/USD to exchange) or plan to open a local account.

What language is spoken?

Russian is the official language. English is spoken in business and high-end tourism, but less so in daily life. An app is helpful.

When is the best time to visit?

May to September offers warm weather. Winter (December to February) is magical but requires warm clothing.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, health insurance valid in Russia is mandatory for the visa application and highly recommended.

Ready for Russia?

Start planning your journey now. We are here to support you at every step.

Useful Links