Russia introduces new e-visa for citizens of 52 countries

whereas Russia's borders have in part reopened following an almost complete border shut-down in the spring, most foreigners are nevertheless no longer able to enter the country. 

however starting on January 1, 2021, residents of 52 international locations might be capable of discuss with Russia with new digital visa. the new e-visa provision turned into announced in Russian top Minister's order posted Wednesday. 

The e-visa equipment is anticipated to raise Russia's tourism trade — which has already misplaced at least $7 billion in profits due to the fact that pandemic restrictions have been brought in late March — once borders reopen.

who's eligible? 

residents of 52 international locations, including eu member states, China, India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Japan. 

E-visa holders can enter Russia for tourism, enterprise and humanitarian actions in addition to for private reasons akin to visits to Russian relatives or chums. 

a way to get it? 

Eligible guests will be in a position to observe for a visa on a unique web site administered through the Russian foreign Ministry or via a cell application. 

applicants will be requested to fill out a kind, add a photograph and scanned replica of their passport and pay a $forty processing payment. little ones beneath the age of six are exempt from the processing price. 

E-visa candidates don't seem to be required to post an invite letter, proof of accommodation or ticket bookings. 

How long will it take?

purposes might be processed in no greater than 4 days.

The visas may be legitimate for 60 days from the day of issuance. 

A single e-visa enables foreigners to stay in Russia for up to sixteen days. guests need to reap a new visa each time they plan to enter Russia.

What to do at the border? 

E-visa holders can enter Russia via 29 border crossings, together with foreign airports in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Krasnodar and Novosibirsk. 

guests will should existing a printed reproduction of their e-visa notification as well as a sound passport at border manage.