Russia Expands e-Visa Program to 64 Nations, Considers Extended Validity
The Russian government has expanded its e-Visa program to include citizens from 11 additional countries, such as Barbados, Bhutan, and Jordan, making travel to Russia more accessible. This streamlined system reduces paperwork and speeds up visa processing, aiming to attract more tourists and business visitors.
New Countries Added to e-Visa Eligibility
On December 5, 2024, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed an order extending the e-Visa program to citizens of the following countries:
Barbados
Bhutan
Eswatini
Jordan
Kenya
Papua New Guinea
Saint Lucia
Tonga
Trinidad and Tobago
Turkmenistan
Zimbabwe
At the same time, Andorra and Serbia were removed from the e-Visa program due to new visa-free travel agreements with Russia. This expansion brings the total number of eligible countries to 64.
Key Features of Russia’s e-Visa Program
The e-Visa program, relaunched on August 1, 2023, offers a simplified visa process for travelers:
Versatile Use: Suitable for tourism, business, humanitarian, and private visits.
No Additional Documents: Invitation letters and hotel bookings are not required.
Fast Processing: Visas are issued within five days.
Child-Friendly: Children under six can obtain visas free of charge.
How to Apply for a Russian e-Visa
Applying for an e-Visa is straightforward and done online via the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal:
Access the Portal: Visit the official e-Visa website.
Fill Out the Form: Complete the online application form.
Upload Documents: Submit a digital passport photo and passport details.
Pay the Fee: Pay the required processing fee, if applicable.
Wait for Approval: Applications are typically processed within five days.
Receive the Visa: Approved visas are valid for 60 days and allow stays of up to 16 days.
Proposed Enhancements to the e-Visa Program
To make the e-Visa even more appealing, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is considering extending its validity from 60 to 120 days and increasing the maximum allowable stay from 16 to 30 days. If approved, these updates will provide travelers with more flexibility for both tourism and business purposes.
Since its relaunch, the program has issued over 541,000 e-Visas, reflecting its growing popularity.
Full List of Eligible Countries
In addition to the newly added nations, citizens from a wide range of European, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries can also apply for Russian e-Visas. These include:
Europe: Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and more.
Asia: China (including Taiwan), Japan, India, Singapore, Vietnam, and others.
Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Bahrain, and Iran, among others.
Why the Updates Matter
The expanded e-Visa program simplifies travel for millions and strengthens Russia's appeal as a destination for both tourism and business. By easing visa requirements, Russia hopes to attract more international visitors, foster cultural exchange, and boost economic ties.
Russia Introduces Biometric Data Collection for Foreign Visitors
Starting December 1, 2024, Russia has begun implementing biometric data collection at key border entry points. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance border security while streamlining the entry process for foreign visitors.
Initial Phase of Biometric Data Collection
The program’s trial phase includes four major Moscow airports—Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo, and Zhukovsky—as well as the Mashtakovo border crossing in the Orenburg region. Foreign travelers and stateless individuals will be required to provide fingerprints and facial images upon arrival.
Future Expansion
By June 30, 2025, Russia plans to extend biometric data collection to all border crossings nationwide. Eligible travelers, including those entering Russia visa-free, will have the option to pre-submit their biometric data via a smartphone app to expedite processing.
Exemptions to Biometric Requirements
Certain groups are exempt from providing biometric data, including:
Citizens of Belarus.
Children under six years old.
Accredited diplomatic and consular personnel.
Representatives of international organizations and their families.
Multilingual Support for Travelers
To ensure clarity, Russia’s Ministry of Digital Development will provide multilingual guidance on the new procedures. Instructions will be available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, French, and Spanish, via the national public services website.
Global Security Alignment
Russia’s adoption of biometric technology aligns with global trends in border management. Similar systems are already in use in regions like the Schengen Zone. The initiative aims to enhance national security by offering more comprehensive data on incoming travelers.
Long-Term Goals
If successful, Russia intends to make biometric data collection a permanent requirement by 2026. This step reflects the country’s commitment to adopting modern security measures while facilitating smoother travel experiences for international visitors.
A New Era for Travel in Russia
These updates to Russia’s travel and visa systems demonstrate a strategic push to attract global visitors while maintaining robust security. From the expanded e-Visa program to the introduction of biometric requirements, these measures highlight Russia’s focus on modernizing its border management and fostering international connections.
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