THE RUSSIAN VISA The visas are divided into two categories: Official visas – Multiple entry and Business visas – invitation is prepared through the Ministry of Internal Affairs of RF. Reserve at least 30-45 days for application.
Ordinary visas – Tourist visas are granted against confirmed purchased local services such as accommodation or excursions. Visa can be issued only on the basis of a confirmation (visa support) of the Russian travel agency responsible for the trip and a travel voucher with reference number. For the visa support the travel agency needs your full name, date and place of birth, nationality and passport number. The visa is applied in the country of residence and besides the confirmation letter and voucher with reference number a foreign citizen is to submit his/her passport, application filled out in the required form, one passport photo and a medical travel insurance. Notice! The list of documents varies in different countries.
MIGRATION CARDS AND REGISTRATION
All foreign citizens entering the Russian Federation are required to complete a migration card. The card consists of two parts - the first is collected immediately at the border’s issuing immigration control-point, and the second carries an indication on the back that the foreigner is legally registered in Russia and it must be submitted upon leaving the country. According to the law, foreign citizens must register within 3 days of their arrival in Russian Federation.
Official visas – registration can be done by the inviting party at the territorial Federal migration office. Tourist visas – registration is perfromed by the hotel.
CUSTOMS
Nonresidents are allowed to export cash, without declaration, the sum equal of USD 3000. If you have less than 3000 USD cash, when entering Russia, customs declaration form is not required. If you have more than the mentioned sum, you must fill up the declaration form when entering Russia for declaring it when exiting. Check that you receive a stamp on your declaration form when entering, it is not stamped automatically.
Notice! When you carry jewels, expensive cameras, laptops or other valuable items, it is recommended to fill up the customs declaration form.
