As a British citizen who loves to travel, you are more than likely used to picking a place, setting your budget, and flying off! While that is usually the case for most countries you might want to visit, it’s the same for Russia. Now, Russia has long been a popular travel destination among us, but you might be surprised to learn you need a visa to go there.
If that worries you, this article should help. In reality, while you do need a visa to travel to Russia, it’s not that complicated to get one.
Here, we will provide you with a brief guide on what you need to know about the application process, required documents, and some of the costs.
How to Apply for a Russian Visa in the UK
Where to Start?
The visa process for Russia is the easiest to go through, so the first step is just deciding what kind of visa you need. There are two main types of visas: the basic tourist visa, which gives you the right to stay in Russia up to 30 days, and the business visa, which provides you with the right to remain in Russia for up to 90 days.
The difference between the two is that the business visa is designed for people who will be working in Russia. No matter which visa you apply for, you will need to provide a letter of invitation from a company or an organisation willing to host you and ensure your safety.
What Documents Do I Need?
The next step is to have the right documents ready. You first need a passport with at least six months remaining before it expires. You will also need a letter of invitation from a person or organisation who will host you in Russia. If you’re travelling for business purposes, you will need a letter from a company or organisation confirming that you can work there.
The last thing you will need is a printout from your online bank showing that you have enough money in your account to fund your trip to Russia.
How Long Does the Application Process Take?
After you’ve gathered all the information you need, you can apply for a visa as soon as you like. Most applicants receive their visas within four days of sending their application, but it may take up to a month. Remember, if you are applying for a business visa, you must have an invitation letter from a Russian company or organisation.
How Much Does it Cost?
The cost of a Russian visa will ultimately depend on how long you plan to travel. The tourist visa is £200, and the business visa is £200, but those are the minimum costs. The cost of a visa is determined by many factors, including the duration, your nationality and whether you have your letter of invitation ready. You can contact the embassy or consulate for more information about costs.
Do I Need Anything Else?
Before you leave, it is recommended that you apply for a health insurance policy to cover any medical expenses. You must remember that the Russian health system is not free, so it is best to be prepared.
Summary
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to get ready for your trip to Russia. If you aren’t interested in applying for a visa in person, there is always the option of applying for an e-visa, which can be applied for from the comfort of your home. With an e-visa, you can apply for your visa online and have it delivered to your email. It couldn’t be simpler!
If you are looking for reliable visa services in the UK, you’re in the right place. Travcour VLS offers various services, including visa processing, passport applications, and document legalisation. You can count on us to help you get seamlessly fast results! Contact us today to learn more about our services and what we can do for you!