The unified Russian e-visa is the simplest way for most tourists to enter Russia: you apply online, no invitation letter or hotel booking is required, and the approval arrives by email. This guide covers who can use it, what it costs, how long it lasts and how to apply in 2026. Rules change, so confirm the current details on the official portal evisa.kdmid.ru before applying.
Can you use the Russian e-visa? (eligibility)
The unified e-visa is open to citizens of about 64 countries, including most of the European Union, China, India, Japan, Turkey and Mexico. Citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are not eligible and must apply for a consular (paper) visa instead. Check the official list for your passport, as it changes.
Cost, validity and length of stay
- Cost: about USD 52 (≈ €48), paid online by card when you apply.
- Validity: 120 days from the date of issue — you must enter Russia within that window.
- Length of stay: up to 30 days from your date of entry.
- Entries: single entry — once you leave Russia, the visa is used up.
These limits were extended in recent years, so verify the current figures on the official portal before you rely on them.
What you need to apply
The e-visa is deliberately light on paperwork. You need only:
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry, with a blank page.
- A recent digital passport-style photo.
- Travel medical insurance valid in Russia for your whole stay — see our Russia travel insurance guide.
No invitation letter, hotel booking or flight tickets are required.
How to apply, step by step
- Open the official MFA portal (evisa.kdmid.ru) or the Russian Foreign Ministry app and start an application — no earlier than 86 days and no later than 4 days before your entry date.
- Enter your details exactly as they appear in your passport and upload your photo (and passport page if requested).
- Pay the fee online by card and save the application number.
- Wait for the decision — processing usually takes about 4 calendar days.
- Download and print the approval notice, and carry it with your passport.
Entering Russia on an e-visa
The e-visa is accepted at a long list of designated checkpoints, including the main Moscow airports (Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo), St Petersburg, and several land borders such as the crossings into the Kaliningrad region. At passport control, show your passport and e-visa approval; you may be asked about your trip and accommodation. Because it is single-entry, plan an itinerary that doesn't require leaving and re-entering Russia.
How much does the Russian e-visa cost?
About USD 52 (≈ €48), paid by card during the online application. There is no separate service fee if you apply on the official government portal.
How long does the e-visa take to process?
Usually about four calendar days. The system lets you apply at most 86 days and at least 4 days before your trip, so apply a couple of weeks ahead to be safe.
Can US or UK citizens get a Russian e-visa?
No. Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are not eligible and must apply for a consular visa through a Russian embassy or authorised visa centre.
How long can I stay on a Russian e-visa?
Up to 30 days from your date of entry, and you must enter within 120 days of the visa being issued. It is a single-entry visa.
