64 countries, one click: How to apply for Russia’s convenient eVisa
Jordan and Zimbabwe among 11 nations joining the new streamlined process
Russia has expanded its eVisa programme to include citizens of 64 countries, aiming to boost tourism and business travel.
Last week, Russia’s Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed an updated policy that adds 11 new nations to the eligibility list.
This modernised system simplifies the visa process by eliminating unnecessary paperwork, making travel to Russia more accessible while maintaining robust migration protocols.
Russia’s eVisa list expands
The latest update to Russia’s eVisa programme reflects its effort to connect with a broader range of nations. Citizens of the following countries can now apply for an eVisa:
- Barbados
- Bhutan
- Eswatini
- Jordan
- Kenya
- Papua New Guinea
- Saint Lucia
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Turkmenistan
- Zimbabwe
With these additions, the total number of eligible countries rises to 64. Meanwhile, Andorra and Serbia have been removed from the list following newly established visa-free agreements with Russia.
What is Russia’s eVisa programme?
Originally launched in 2020 and updated in August 2023, the Russian eVisa system is designed for convenience. It removes traditional requirements like invitation letters and hotel confirmations, offering a simplified and efficient process.
Key highlights:
- Versatile Use: Valid for tourism, business, humanitarian, and personal visits.
- Quick Approval: Applications are processed within five business days.
- Child-Friendly Option: Free visas for children under six years old.
- Fully Online Process: No physical visits required.
How to apply for Russian eVisa
Applying for an eVisa is simple and entirely online. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Access the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal.
- Complete the Application Form: Provide accurate personal details and travel information.
- Upload Supporting Documents: Submit a digital passport photo and a scanned copy of your passport.
- Pay the Visa Fee: Fees vary by nationality.
- Wait for Approval: Most applications are processed within five business days.
The approved eVisa is valid for 60 days and allows a stay of up to 16 days. Proposed changes aim to extend the validity to 120 days and increase the stay limit to 30 days.
Upcoming Changes
To enhance its appeal, the Russian government has proposed updates to the eVisa system:
- Extended Validity: Increasing from 60 days to 120 days.
- Longer Stays: Raising the maximum stay duration from 16 to 30 days.
While the eVisa will remain a single-entry document, these changes are expected to encourage longer visits and support both tourism and business engagements.
Russia's tourism sector has seen significant growth in recent years, with the introduction of the eVisa system playing a key role in increasing international visits. In 2023 alone, Russia welcomed over 8 million international tourists, a 20% increase compared to the previous year. The eVisa programme, which has issued over 541,000 visas since its relaunch in August 2023, is a crucial driver of this growth, accounting for 70% of all foreign visas granted during this period.