10 top tips for traveling to Russia

Traveling to Russia can be an enriching experience, offering a unique blend of history, art, food, and architecture. However, navigating the Russia Tourist Visa and immigration process can be daunting for many travelers.

To ensure a smooth journey, here are our top 10 tips for traveling to Russia, with a special focus on visas and immigration.

Thanks to Michael Zervos, our record-breaking world traveler, and Project Kosmos we were able to get some first-hand insights into what it's like traveling to Russia as a US citizen in 2024.

1. Understanding the Russia visa requirements

Before planning your trip, it's a must to familiarize yourself with Russia's visa requirements. Most travelers will need to apply for a visa before arrival. The type of visa you'll need (tourist, business, student, etc.) depends on the purpose of your visit. Determine the visa you'll need and its specific requirements using our Visa Checker tool.

After interviewing Michael on his 2nd week of world travel, he mentioned that Russia was the first country on his list for a reason. He was trying to get some of the harder countries out of the way first.

• “Russia requires you to show the last 10 years' history of your travel, it would have been terrible to put this country in the middle of my trip. The reason why iVisa and I decided to put it first is because it's harder to get into as an American, even as a Greek-American. I will never forget the visa process – it was like something out of a novel.”

2. Start your Russia visa application early

Begin your visa application process well in advance of your travel date. As already stated, it is a longer and more complex visa application.

Our standard processing time takes up to 30 days, so we recommend applying in ample time before your trip. Processing times can vary depending on individual situations, and unexpected delays can happen.

Following Michael's advice, it's always best to plan in advance, and what better time than now? Applying with us will help ensure you have your visa in hand before your departure.

3. Prepare your documents carefully

When applying for a Russian tourist visa, you'll need to submit various documents, including an Invitation Letter from a Russian host or hotel, a current passport with at least six months of validity, passport-sized photos, and sometimes proof of travel insurance.

Want to avoid rejection? As part of our concierge service, we provide you with an extensive list of documents you'll need to submit when applying and to take with you to the government appointment.

Click here to go straight to the list of required documents for the Russia Tourist Visa.

Michael at St. Basil's Cathedral in Red Square, Moscow

4. Register upon arrival

Foreign visitors must register their visa with the Federal Migration Service within seven working days of arrival in Russia. If you're staying at a hotel, the hotel staff will usually handle this for you. If you're staying in private accommodation, your host must take care of the registration.

Registration is mandatory for all foreign nationals staying in the Russian Federation for seven days or more.

5. Follow the immigration rules

Russia was the hardest immigration experience so far.

• 1 month and 14 countries later, Michael stated that Russia has been the most challenging entry so far on his trip around the globe.

Customs declaration: Travelers may be required to complete a customs declaration form, especially if they are carrying items that need to be declared according to Russian customs regulations. This includes large amounts of currency, expensive equipment, and certain restricted or prohibited items.

There is a list of things you can't take into Russia, including precious metals and stones, guns, explosives, ammunition, strong medicines (anesthetics, sleeping pills, etc.), psychotropic or narcotic medicines, certain prescription medicines, poisons, and strong sedatives.

Migration Card: Upon arrival, travelers are required to fill out a migration card, which is usually provided by airline staff before landing or available at immigration checkpoints. The migration card includes personal information, details of the visit, and the intended place of stay in Russia. One part of the card is retained by the immigration officer upon entry, and the other part must be kept safe by the traveler and returned upon departure. It is vital not to lose this card during your stay.

Be mindful of Russia's immigration rules. Overstaying your visa or failing to comply with registration requirements can result in fines, deportation, and a ban on future entry into Russia.

Extra tips on passing Russian immigration

Enhance your preparation by also considering this additional guidance provided by Michael:

• As an American citizen, you may require a second check or short interview on arrival. Michael was interviewed for 30 minutes and thinks he would have been rejected entry if he hadn't been meeting a friend there who had WhatsApped him her passport copy.

• Make sure to have printouts of your exit flight details, your host or tour company contact, ID and address details, your invitation letter, and your stamped visa ready to show to immigration officials. The passport control area of the airport is a strictly no-mobile zone.

For detailed immigration information, check out our traveler bloggers' complete guide on what to expect on arrival and departure in Russia when traveling through Moscow's Vnukovo Airport.

6. Understand the currency and payment methods - Take cash with you

Cash is the biggest advice, take it with you! It's an absolute necessity

As most US nations have sanctions against Russia at the moment, you can't use your usual major international payment methods like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB, PayPal, or cash apps while in the country.

Michael's top tips: The USD is quite good value at the moment, and it's difficult to get Russian currency (Russian Ruble, RUB). You can get some at the airport, but it's not the best exchange rate. Banks will take USD cash in Russia, so exchanging at a bank is advised. If you're really planning ahead, on eBay in Russia, the USD goes for 6 times the cost.

Another travel blogger of ours recommends changing money in Turkey as it's the best place to find Rubles. So if you're passing through on your way to Russia, take advantage and change your cash before you arrive.

Alternative payment methods

• Local bank cards: Russian banks issue local bank cards, which operate on the domestic payment network known as "Mir." These cards are accepted across Russia in places like supermarkets, restaurants, and other service establishments. However, their acceptance outside Russia is limited.

• Electronic wallets and payment systems: Digital payment solutions and e-wallets, such as Yandex.Money (now known as YooMoney), WebMoney, and Qiwi, are popular in Russia for online transactions and in-store payments. These platforms can often be topped up with cash at payment terminals throughout the country, making them a viable alternative for both residents and visitors.

• Bank transfers: For larger transactions, such as paying for accommodation or services, bank transfers within Russian banks or through international banks that still operate in Russia can be used. However, the latter may be subject to restrictions and increased scrutiny due to sanctions.

• Cryptocurrencies: While not as widely accepted for everyday transactions, cryptocurrencies represent an alternative payment method that some in Russia might use for international transactions, or as a store-of-value.

This situation can change at any time so make sure to keep up-to-date with the latest cash flow advice by speaking with your airline or local Russian Embassy about the current situation.

7. Keep copies of important documents

Carry copies of your passport, visa, and registration with you at all times. This can help in case of loss or theft and is useful for identity verification purposes.

Don't carry the originals around with you on an everyday basis, that's where making a copy of your documents comes in handy.

8. Air tickets to Russia: Always buy in advance

As the airlines flying in and out of Russia are all locally owned you can't buy air tickets directly to Russia with your usual international cards due to the sanctions at the moment, so having a friend, tour company, or knowing which websites can help you out is essential.

My flight from Istanbul to Moscow was delayed so I had to buy a new flight. I couldn't even buy tickets to Russia with my cards, luckily I had Russian friends who bought them for me.

If you want to play it safe, it's best to book your flights beforehand with a tour/travel company or through a local Russian friend, if you have that option. As an alternative, Michael suggests you use Zen Hotels where you can pay with your credit card.

9. Be aware of cultural norms and laws

Understanding local customs and laws is crucial when traveling anywhere in the world. Russian culture is rich and diverse, with deep historical roots and traditions. Here's an overview of some key aspects to consider:

Cultural norms

• Communication style: Russians are known for their directness in communication. They value straightforwardness and honesty in discussions, which might come off as blunt to people from more reserved cultures.

• Hospitality: Russians are extremely hospitable to guests. It is common to be offered more food and drink than one can consume. Refusing can sometimes be seen as impolite, so it's polite to accept at least a small amount.

• **Public behavior: Public displays of affection are generally acceptable but behaving modestly and respectfully in public places, including dressing appropriately when visiting churches or religious sites, is expected.

• Gifts: When visiting someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers (make sure they are in an odd number, as even numbers are for mourning).

Laws and regulations

• Alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol in public places outside designated areas is prohibited and can lead to administrative fines.

• Smoking ban: Smoking is banned in public places, including airports, trains, bus stations, and near metro stations. Violating this ban can result in fines.

• Drug laws: Russia has very strict drug laws. Possession of drugs can lead to long prison sentences.

• Photography restrictions: Be cautious when taking photos of government buildings or strategic sites. Always ask for permission if unsure.

• LGBTQ+ rights: Russia has laws that restrict the promotion of "non-traditional sexual relationships'' to minors. Public expressions of LGBTQ+ identities may be met with hostility and legal challenges.

• Internet use: Some websites and online services may be blocked in Russia. The use of VPN services to access banned content can be subject to legal penalties.

Pro tip: Internet connection on a mobile is decent, spotty at times. Using typical apps are sanctioned so you need to use a vpn to access them. You can watch Netflix with a vpn, or Instagram.

10. Emergency contacts

Keep a list of emergency contacts, including the nearest embassy or consulate, local emergency services, and contacts back home. This can be invaluable in case of legal or medical emergencies.

Find your nearest Russian Embassy in our embassy listings..

Traveling to Russia offers an opportunity to explore a country of rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. By preparing properly for the visa and immigration process, you can ensure a more enjoyable and stress-free visit. Remember, regulations can change, so always check the latest information before you travel.

Need more pre-travel advice for Russia? Check out our Russia Visa page or contact us via Whatsapp now.