Entry Requirements to Russia
Citizens of 55 countries can apply for an e-visa. It is easy and convenient; in 2024, 400,000 travelers took advantage of this opportunity. To receive an e-visa, you only need a passport, photos, a completed application form, and payment of $52 in government fees. It will take roughly four working days to process your request. The 60-day total validity term of this type of visa will allow you to stay in Russia for 16 calendar days. You can simply and quickly apply for an electronic visa by clicking here.
Travelers from other countries will need a printed visa, which is issued at a Russian embassy or consulate in their home country. The rules of application submission, the need to make an appointment in advance, and the exact set of documents vary from country to country. For up-to-date information, please check the website of diplomatic missions in the country or city where you intend to submit a visa application.
In 2024, citizens of more than 50 countries are allowed to enter the Russian Federation without a visa. This includes all CIS countries, a number of countries in Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East.
Look up your country on the list and see which visa requirements apply.
Payment for Services
Currently, Visa and MasterCard payment systems are not accepted in Russia, but in most places, you can pay with MIR, UnionPay, WeChat or Alipay. You have the option to order a MIR bank card online by registering with YooMoney, an electronic payment service, and receive it immediately upon arrival at Sheremetyevo Airport. Alternatively, you can apply for this card at one of Sberbank’s branches.
Cash is accepted absolutely everywhere, though. You can exchange foreign currency for rubles at an exchange office — there are more than a hundred of them throughout the city. It is worth noting that the rate at the airport is not the most favorable, so it is better to exchange larger amounts in the city.
You can bring currency, but any amount equivalent to more than $10,000 will have to be declared. Also, you cannot take any foreign currency in an amount exceeding $10,000, in cash, out of Russia.
Useful Contact Numbers
Emergency Services: 112
A single toll-free number for all telecom operators, suitable for any emergency situation, and operators speak 18 languages. You can get through even with a negative balance on your phone and without an active SIM card.
Firefighters and Rescuers: 101
Police: 102
Ambulance: 103
EMERCOM Hotline in Moscow: +7 (495) 637-22-22
Hotline of the Moscow Center for Tourist Information Support: +7 (495) 122-01-11
Citywide Contact Center: +7 (800) 300-61-22
In the event of an emergency, an English-speaking operator will help call the police, ambulance or other special services.
Tourist information centers in Moscow where you can receive information on the city’s main events and attractions:
- Zaryadye Park;
- Dream Island Amusement Park;
- North River Terminal;
- South River Terminal;
- Sheremetyevo Airport;
- Vnukovo Airport.
There is also a tourist police in Moscow. Its employees can be identified by their “Tourist Police” armband; they speak different languages and help you navigate the city, find items forgotten on public transportation or call a taxi.
If you have a complaint, request or suggestion, drop the Moscow Tourism Committee a line: moscomtour@mos.ru
