Russian humanitarian visa
For culture, sport, science and religious activity.
In short
A Russian humanitarian visa is for participation in cultural, sporting, scientific, educational or religious activities. It requires an invitation from the inviting Russian organisation. Validity and entries depend on the programme and the inviting body.
At a glance
- Who it's for
- Participants in cultural, sporting, scientific, educational, charitable or religious activities invited by a Russian organisation.
- Invitation
- Invitation from the inviting Russian organisation.
- Validity / stay
- Varies by programme; single, double or multiple entry.
- Entries
- Single, double or multiple entry.
- Indicative cost
- Consular fee by nationality + service fee.
Documents you'll need
- Passport valid 6+ months with blank pages
- Completed visa application form
- One passport-size photo
- Invitation from the inviting organisation
- Travel medical insurance (most nationalities)
How to get a humanitarian visa
- 1
Obtain an invitation letter
Get a tourist confirmation/voucher or a business invitation. This can be ordered online in minutes.
- 2
Complete the application form
Fill in the official visa application form for the consulate that serves your country of residence.
- 3
Prepare your documents
Valid passport, photo, invitation, and (for some nationalities) travel medical insurance.
- 4
Submit at a consulate or VFS center
Apply in person or by post at the Russian consulate or an authorised visa center (e.g. VFS Global).
- 5
Collect your visa
Pay the consular and service fees, then collect your passport with the visa once processed.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Russian humanitarian visa for?
It covers cultural, sporting, scientific, educational, charitable and religious activities carried out at the invitation of a Russian organisation.
How do I get a humanitarian visa?
The inviting Russian organisation issues an invitation, after which you apply at the Russian consulate with the standard documents.