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Russia is expanding its e-Visa policy, doubling its validity to 120 days and extending the stay period to 30 days. This change aims to boost tourism and simplify entry for international travellers.
Exciting news for global travellers! Russia is preparing to enhance its electronic visa (e-Visa) program, making it easier than ever to explore this vast and culturally rich nation. Expect longer stays, increased flexibility, and a shift towards digital immigration processes.
Extended E-Visa: Doubling Your Russian Adventure
Get ready to plan longer trips! The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, spearheaded by spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, has announced upcoming changes to the e-Visa framework.
• Increased Validity: The e-Visa’s validity period will jump from 60 to a generous 120 days. This means you’ll have four months to enter Russia after your visa is issued.
• Longer Stays: The authorized length of stay within Russia will be extended from 16 to 30 days. Perfect for in-depth explorations or extended business trips.
These changes, slated for implementation “in the near future,” are designed to boost tourism, facilitate business, and strengthen international ties. For travellers, it translates to unparalleled flexibility in planning their Russian adventures.
Key Changes to Russia’s e-Visa
• Extended Validity: E-visas will now be valid for 120 days instead of 60.
• Longer Stay Period: Travellers will be allowed to stay for up to 30 days, compared to the previous 16-day limit.
• Easier Entry Process: Plans are underway to replace paper migration cards with electronic authorization, streamlining entry procedures.
Why Is Russia Expanding the e-Visa?
Russia aims to revive tourism and strengthen international ties by easing entry rules. Travel restrictions and geopolitical issues have led to fewer visitors, impacting the economy.
The policy also supports Russia’s immigration modernization efforts. President Putin advocates for digital entry systems to boost security, streamline processes, and improve migration control.
Digital Migration: Goodbye Paper, Hello Efficiency
President Vladimir Putin has also announced plans to replace traditional paper migration cards with electronic authorization. This move reflects Russia’s push for modernization and enhanced security.
• Modernized Migration Control: The shift to electronic authorization aims to streamline the entry process for foreign nationals.
• Enhanced Security: Utilizing contemporary technologies will strengthen public security and combat illegal immigration.
This digital transformation aligns with Russia’s broader strategy to modernize its migration policy and embrace technological advancements.
Russia’s e-Visa: Who Can Apply?
The current Russian e-Visa is available to citizens of 64 countries, including many European nations. This streamlined process allows for stays of up to 16 days for:
• Tourism
• Business
• Private visits
• Participation in scientific, cultural, socio-political, economic, and sporting events.
List of Countries Eligible for Russian e-Visa:
Currently, the list of countries eligible for the Russian e-Visa is extensive, containing 64 countries. It is advised to check the official site of the Russian MFA for the most up to date list, as it can change.
Europe
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican.
Asia
Bahrain, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Korea (North), Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkmenistan, and Vietnam.
Middle East & Others
Eswatini, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Mexico, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Saint Lucia, Saudi Arabia, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Zimbabwe.
How Will These Changes Benefit Travellers?
• More Flexibility: Visitors can plan longer trips and explore multiple destinations within Russia.
• Simplified Paperwork: The shift to electronic authorization will eliminate the need for traditional migration cards.
• Boost for Tourism & Business: Easier entry encourages more foreign visitors, supporting Russia’s economy.
When Will These Changes Take Effect?
Russia is expected to roll out the changes soon, though officials have not announced an exact implementation date. Travellers planning a trip to Russia should stay updated on official government announcements for further details.
Final Thoughts
Russia’s decision to extend its e-Visa validity and stay period is a welcome change for international travellers. With easier access and digital entry processes, visiting Russia will soon be more convenient than ever. Whether for tourism, business, or family visits, these updates mark a step towards a more open and traveler-friendly Russia.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/russia-new-evisa-rules-120-day-validity-30-day-stay/
