Russia's unified electronic visa (e-visa) has become one of the most convenient ways to visit the country for short trips. The application is completed entirely online — no consulate visit, paper documents or invitation letters are required for eligible travelers. In 2026 the rules are more generous than ever: longer validity, a 30-day permitted stay and a growing list of border crossing points.
This guide summarizes the current e-visa rules, who can use this route and what has changed recently.
What is the unified e-visa?
The unified e-visa is a single-entry electronic permit for short visits to Russia. It covers several travel purposes:
- tourism;
- business trips;
- humanitarian visits;
- guest visits.
The application is submitted through the official online portal of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Processing normally takes a few days, and the visa is issued electronically — travelers simply present it (printed or on screen) together with their passport at the border.
Key parameters in 2026
| Parameter | Current rule |
|---|---|
| Eligible countries | 64 states |
| Visa validity | 120 days from issuance |
| Permitted stay | Up to 30 days from the date of entry |
| Entries | Single entry |
| Application | Fully online, no consulate visit |
The extended validity (120 days) and the 30-day stay have applied since August 2025 — previously the e-visa was valid for 60 days with a maximum stay of 16 days. This makes the electronic route suitable not only for short city breaks but also for longer tourist itineraries and business trips.
Who can use the e-visa?
Citizens of 64 countries are currently eligible, including — among others — India, China, Saudi Arabia, the Philippines, Singapore, Turkey, Indonesia, Vietnam and most EU states. The full official list is published on the e-visa portal and is periodically expanded by government decisions.
Important: citizens of countries not included in the list — for example, the United States or the United Kingdom — cannot use the electronic route. For them, a regular visa issued through a consulate remains the standard option. We cover that process in detail in our guides:
- Russia visa for US citizens
- Russia visa for Filipino citizens
- Russia visa for Saudi citizens
- Russia visa from Singapore
Where can you enter Russia with an e-visa?
An e-visa can only be used at designated border crossing points. The government has been steadily expanding this list — it now includes more than a hundred air, road, rail, sea and pedestrian checkpoints, with new additions in 2026 (for example, crossing points in the Altai and Tuva regions). Major international airports in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Kazan, Sochi and other cities accept e-visas.
Before booking, travelers should confirm that both their arrival and departure points are on the approved list — entering with an e-visa through a non-designated checkpoint is not possible.
How to apply – step by step
- Check your eligibility — confirm your citizenship is on the official list.
- Prepare a digital photo and passport scan. The passport should remain valid for at least six months.
- Complete the online application on the official portal, no earlier than 45 days and no later than roughly four days before the trip.
- Pay the visa fee online.
- Receive the e-visa notification by email and carry it with your passport when traveling.
Common mistakes to avoid
- applying too late — the application should be submitted several days before departure;
- errors in passport data — the e-visa is checked automatically against your documents at the border;
- choosing a non-designated entry point;
- overstaying the permitted 30 days;
- assuming the e-visa allows employment — work requires a different category.
E-visa or regular visa?
| Situation | Suitable route |
|---|---|
| Short tourist or business trip, eligible nationality | E-visa |
| Nationality not on the e-visa list | Regular visa via consulate |
| Stay longer than 30 days | Regular visa |
| Employment | Work visa |
| Multiple entries needed | Regular visa |
How Consul Online can help
Consul Online assists travelers with Russian visa applications — both electronic and consular routes: eligibility assessment, application preparation, invitation-related support, insurance guidance and procedural advice.
Start your application here: https://consul.online/en/visa-russia
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Russian e-visa valid?
120 days from the date of issuance, with a permitted stay of up to 30 days from entry.
How many countries are eligible?
64 countries are currently on the official list, which is periodically expanded.
Can US citizens get a Russian e-visa?
No. The United States is not on the eligibility list — American travelers apply for a regular visa through a consulate.
Can I extend my stay beyond 30 days?
No. Travelers planning longer stays should apply for a regular visa matching their travel purpose.
Can I work in Russia with an e-visa?
No. Employment requires a work visa.
