In order to receive a Russian visa, you need to first obtain an invitation (also called visa support). Different visa types require different visa support documents. For a tourist visa, it is a "travel voucher" and a "hotel reservation confirmation" issued by a Russian travel agency.

Both papers are called “invitation” or “tourist visa support” and can be ordered online through this page.

You will then need to take your visa support along with other application materials to the consulate in order to receive a Russian visa. These materials usually include your passport, one passport photo, a completed application form, and payment. Consular fees for non-rush processing range from $50-150, but these fees increase for shorter turnaround time. Depending on your visa type and duration, HIV test results may be necessary. We recommend that you contact the Russian consulate in your country to confirm the materials needed. It is not possible to apply by post and if you are not able to go to the consulate yourself you should contact a visa agency (see on Russian Visa Net) to whom you can ship your materials. If you are in the USA, you may also contact SRAS for full visa processing.

To obtain Russian Business Visa Support Authorization (Official Visa Invitation from Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Federal Migration Service or Authorized organizations) choose Your Visa Type and complete Visa Support Application Form below.

1. A foreign citizen can obtain a visa to Russia ONLY in the country of his/her citizenship. Exceptions include those who have a residence permit for a foreign country for the period more than 90 days. However, the final decision is left up to the consulates. We recommend that you get in touch with the Russian consulate in the country of your current location and make sure that your application will be accepted.
2. A multiple entry business visa allows nationals of all countries to stay in Russia up to 90 days out of the period of 180 days. .

Attention: a multiple entry visa is only available for people who have been issued a Russian visa before. If this is your first visit, you are only eligible to obtain a single or double entry visa for 1 to 3 months.

Effective April 13, 2009 the visa processing time and fees at the Russian consulates have changed. The visa processing takes no less than 3 business days. To obtain up to date information on the visa processing time and fees, please contact your local Russian consulate.

visa support for EU citizens

visa support for non-EU citizens

Business visa support for EU citizens

for EU, Norway and Denmark, except for UK and Ireland

Business visa support for non-EU citizens

including citizens of UK and Ireland