Russia Visit Visa for Indian Citizens:

Your Application Guide

Key requirements for your Russia visit visa

Passport & photographs essentials

• Passport: You need an original passport. It must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Russia. Additionally, it requires a minimum of two blank pages for visa stamping. Submit all old passports as well, if applicable. A specific requirement for Russian visas involves submitting copies of all pages of other valid or expired international and internal passports.
• Photographs: Include two recent color passport-size photographs (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm). These should be taken within the last six months. They require a white background and matte finish. Ensure your face occupies 70-80% of the photo area. Maintain a neutral expression and a closed mouth. Typically, glasses are not allowed unless medically necessary, without glare or reflections.

Application forms and required letters

• Visa Application Form: Submit a completely filled and signed Russia visa application form. You can find this form on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. Alternatively, access it through an authorized visa center like VFS Global. It is important to fill out all sections truthfully.
• Invitation Letter (Visa Support Document): For a Russia visit visa, you require a Tourist Confirmation Letter (or Voucher). A registered Russian tour operator or hotel issues this document. This letter acts as an invitation, verifying your booked accommodation and itinerary in Russia. The quality of this Invitation Letter is crucial for a successful visa application.
• Cover Letter: Prepare a personal covering letter. Employed individuals should use plain paper. Conversely, if you are self-employed, use company letterhead. This letter should state the purpose of your visit, your designation, passport details, and travel dates.

Travel arrangements confirmation

• Flight Tickets: You must have confirmed return flight tickets. These tickets demonstrate your intent to return to your home country.
• Accommodation: You need confirmed hotel vouchers and reservations. Alternatively, provide an invitation letter from a host or guarantor in Russia. This letter needs to specify the host’s address and contact details. It must also detail the activities planned for your stay. Vague descriptions like ‘tourism’ are unacceptable.
• Travel Itinerary: Prepare a detailed, day-to-day plan for your stay in Russia. This demonstrates clear travel intentions and helps support your visa application.

Financial proof (if requested)

• Bank Statements: While not always strictly mandatory for a Russia visit visa, submitting original, updated bank statements from the last six months is advisable. They should show sufficient funds to cover your stay in Russia. It is important to have these stamped and signed by the bank authority.
• Income Tax Returns (ITR): Submitting ITR or Form 16 for the last three years can demonstrate financial stability, especially if requested by the consulate.

Mandatory travel insurance

• Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is mandatory when applying for a Russia visa. You must provide proof of comprehensive travel insurance coverage. This insurance must cover medical expenses and emergencies for the entire duration of your stay in Russia.

The Russia visa application process

• Determine Visa Type: First, identify that you need a Russia visit visa (Tourist Visa) based on your travel purpose.
• Obtain Invitation Letter: Next, secure a Tourist Confirmation Letter (Voucher) from a registered Russian tour operator or hotel.
• Complete Application Form: Subsequently, fill out the online visa application form via the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or a designated visa center. Ensure all details are accurate and match your supporting documents.
• Gather Supporting Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including passport, photos, invitation letter, flight tickets, accommodation proof, and travel insurance.
• Submit Application: Submit your completed application form and required documents to the designated Russian Visa Centre or Consulate.
• Biometrics: If required, attend a biometrics appointment at the visa center. Biometric data submission is mandatory for all applicants.
• Pay Fees: Pay the applicable visa fees at the Visa Application Centre. Fees can be paid in cash or by credit/debit card, typically in Russian Rubles.
• Attend Interview: You may need to attend an interview at the consulate if requested. In this case, answer all questions honestly and clearly.
• Await Processing: After submitting your application, await the visa processing. Standard processing takes about 5 to 10 working days. However, processing times can vary based on visa type and application accuracy. Apply well in advance of your trip.
• Collect Passport: Once a decision is made, collect your passport with the visa from the Visa Application Centre. You can also opt for courier delivery for added convenience.

Russia e-Visa option for Indian nationals

Russia visa fees and processing time

• Fees:Russia visa fees vary by type and urgency. For instance, a single-entry visa issued within 4-20 days costs USD 50 (approximately INR 4100). Conversely, an urgent single-entry visa (3 days) costs USD 100 (approximately INR 8200). These fees exclude service fees. An additional service fee is charged by the visa center. Therefore, check official sources for the latest fee details.
• Processing Time: Standard Russia visa processing typically takes 5 to 10 working days from submission. Urgent processing takes 1 to 3 working days. Nevertheless, processing times depend on the visa type and the completeness of your application. Applying well in advance is always advisable, particularly during peak travel seasons.

How ATSOL Visa assists with your Russia visit visa

• Expert Guidance: The team clarifies the exact Russia visit visa requirements for your trip. This includes advising on passport validity, photo specifications, financial proof, invitation letters, and application forms.
• Document Review: ATSOL VISA meticulously reviews all your documents. This includes bank statements, invitation letters, flight tickets, accommodation proofs, and travel insurance. They ensure everything meets the stringent guidelines set by the Embassy or Consulate, consequently minimizing rejection chances.
• On-the-Spot Assistance: They offer same-day service for eligible applications for enrolled clients. This dedication to efficiency streamlines your application process, minimizing delays.

Important disclaimer

Conclusion