Russian tourist visa
For leisure travel and sightseeing in Russia.
In short
A Russian tourist visa is for leisure travel and sightseeing. To get one you need a tourist invitation (a 'tourist confirmation' and 'voucher') from an authorised Russian tour operator — which can be ordered online from about USD 16-20 — then you submit your application at a Russian consulate or an authorised visa centre. It usually allows a stay of up to 30 days.
At a glance
- Who it's for
- Travellers visiting Russia for tourism, sightseeing or short leisure trips who are not eligible for (or prefer not to use) the e-Visa.
- Invitation
- Tourist confirmation & voucher from a registered Russian tour operator (orderable online).
- Validity / stay
- Typically up to 30 days (single or double entry); US citizens may receive up to 3-year multiple-entry tourist visas.
- Entries
- Single or double entry (longer multiple-entry for some nationalities).
- Indicative cost
- Consular fee varies by nationality (e.g. ~USD 185 for US citizens) + visa-centre service fee; invitation from ~USD 16-20.
Documents you'll need
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond the visa, with 2 blank pages
- Completed visa application form
- One passport-size photo
- Tourist confirmation & voucher (invitation)
- Travel medical insurance (for many nationalities)
How to get a tourist 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
How do I get a Russian tourist visa?
Order a tourist invitation (confirmation + voucher) online, complete the visa application form, then submit your passport and documents at the Russian consulate or visa centre that serves your country of residence.
How much is a Russian tourist visa?
The consular fee depends on your nationality. The tourist invitation costs roughly USD 16-20 online, and visa centres add a service fee (often around USD 30).
How long can I stay on a tourist visa?
Most tourist visas allow up to 30 days. US citizens can be issued multiple-entry tourist visas valid for up to 3 years.
Do I need an invitation for a tourist visa?
Yes. Unlike the e-Visa, a standard tourist visa requires a tourist confirmation and voucher from an authorised Russian tour operator.