New rule: Indians to get visa free entry to Russia
The new rule will come into effect from Spring 2025 after both countries finalise arrangements
Dubai: Indian nationals across the globe will soon get visa-free entry to Russia.
This development comes under an agreement currently being worked out, which is set to increase the number of travellers from India visiting Russia. The new rule is expected to come into force by spring 2025
The initiative will make travelling very smooth for Indian tourists to Russia. It will allow entry into Russia without the need to apply for a visa in advance. Travellers just present their passports upon arrival, making the process quicker. Indian passport holders already enjoy visa-free access to 62 countries.
Moscow has been attracting more Indian visitors over the years. In the first half of 2024, 28,500 Indian travellers visited the Russian capital, a 1.5-fold increase from the previous year.
India ranked high among non-CIS countries, with over 60,000 visitors in 2023, a 26% rise from 2022, according to reports in the Indian newspapers.
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Various visa options
- Tourist Visa: for leisure travel and sightseeing
- Business Visa: for attending business meetings or professional events
- Private Visa: for visiting family or friends in Russia
- Work Visa: for employment opportunities
- Student Visa: for those enrolling in Russian educational institutions
- E-Visa: for short-term visits to specific regions of Russia
Gulf Nations to Join India in Visa-Free Travel to Russia
While UAE citizens are already travelling to Russia without taking visa in advance, citizens of some other Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar will also enjoy visa-free entry to Russia, reflecting Russia’s interest in building stronger ties with the Gulf region. Malaysia, Myanmar and Kenya are also on the list of visa-free entry to Russia from 2025.