United States to Russia tourist visa
Complete Russia tourist visa requirements, fees, processing times, and application guide for US citizens. Updated December 2025.
- Visa
- Russia Tourist Visa
- Fee
- $160 + $38 service fee
- Processing time
- 10 calendar days
- Length of stay
- Up to 6 months per visit
Required documents
- Tourist Invitation Letter — Official invitation titled 'Confirmation of hosting a foreign tourist' from a registered Russian travel agency or hotel
- Valid Passport — Original US passport that meets Russian visa requirements
- Online Visa Application — Electronic visa application completed on the official Russian consular website
- Passport Photo — Recent passport-style photograph meeting Russian visa specifications
- Passport Data Page Copy — Photocopy of your passport’s biographical data page
How to apply
- Entry and exit dates — Your visa specifies exact validity dates in European format (day/month/year). You must enter Russia within these dates.
- Number of entries — Confirm it matches what you applied for
- Personal details — Check your name and passport number
- No explanation required — The consulate is not obligated to provide specific reasons for denial
- No refund — Consular and service fees are non-refundable
- Review your documents — Most refusals result from documentation errors
Common questions
- Do Americans need a visa to visit Russia?
- Yes, US citizens must obtain a tourist visa before traveling to Russia. Visas cannot be obtained upon arrival. You will need an invitation letter from a registered Russian travel agency and must apply through VFS Global or directly at a Russian consulate.
- How long can Americans stay in Russia on a tourist visa?
- A single or double entry tourist visa allows stays of up to 30 days per entry. US citizens can also apply for a 3-year multiple entry tourist visa, which allows multiple visits during the validity period, though each stay is still limited.
- How much does a Russian tourist visa cost for US citizens?
- The total cost is $198, which includes a $160 consular fee and a $38 VFS Global service charge. The fee is the same for single entry, double entry, and 3-year multiple entry visas. Fees are non-refundable if your application is denied.
- What is a tourist invitation letter and where do I get one?
- A tourist invitation letter, officially called a 'Confirmation of hosting a foreign tourist,' is a required document issued by a Russian travel agency or hotel registered with the Federal Agency of Tourist Operators. You can obtain one online from services like iVisa, Russia Support, or through your hotel booking.
- How long does Russian visa processing take?
- Standard processing takes approximately 10 business days from when your documents are submitted to the consulate. Expedited processing (3 business days) is available only under emergency circumstances and at the consulate’s discretion.
- Do US citizens need travel insurance for a Russian visa?
- No, US citizens are not required to provide proof of travel insurance when applying for a Russian visa. This is different from EU citizens who must show valid health insurance for Russia. However, having travel insurance is still recommended.