Russia visas

Who needs a visa to Russia

In Russia, the visa policy regulates the conditions that a foreign person intending to visit the Russian Federation must complete in order to get a visa, which is a document that grants permission to travel to, enter, and stay in the country. Visa waivers are granted in accordance with bilateral or multilateral agreements. A large number of nations have signed agreements with Russia under which its nationals are either free from visa requirements or may apply for a visa online (e-visa). Citizens of countries who have not signed such an agreement with Russia are required to seek a visa in advance from a Russian diplomatic post or visa centre in their country of residence.

Entry into Russia

It is advised that Irish nationals travelling to Russia observe the validity of their Russian visa. A visa overstay of even a few hours can have severe implications, including a possible court appearance, fine, and 5-year travel ban. A short-stay e-visa system (maximum 8 days) has been implemented for nationals of 53 countries, including Ireland, who wish to travel to Saint Petersburg and its region. Citizens of Ireland should be aware that these visas are only valid for travel to and within the St. Petersburg (Leningrad Oblast) region, and not for travel to the rest of Russia. Similar electronic visas have been implemented for the Kaliningrad region.

These extra visa programmes may be influenced by the Russian government's general strategy to COVID-19 prevention. Citizens of Ireland must ensure that the name on their visa and passport are identical. A little change in spelling will result in a denial of entry to Russia. The Embassy is unable to assist in such situations.

For Ukraine-related information, please consult the Department's Travel Advice. Due to the active conflict, the Embassy advises against all travel to regions bordering Ukraine. Due to the volatile security situation in the North Caucasus, we strongly discourage all travel to Chechnya, Ingushetia, and Dagestan, as well as to the eastern and southern parts of Stavropol Krai bordering Chechnya and Dagestan, including the Budyonnovsky, Levkumsky, Neftekumsky, Stepnovsky, and Kursky regions.

We also advise against travel to North Ossetia, Karachai-Cherkessia, and Kabardino-Balkaria unless absolutely necessary (including the Elbrus region). In certain regions, terrorism and kidnapping pose a threat. Contact the embassy if you are an Irish citizen ordinarily residing in Ireland who needs assistance travelling home. If they have not already done so, Irish citizens residing in Russia are advised to register with the embassy using the Department's travel registration facility.

Criteria to apply for a Russian Visa

You will need the following:

• Form for Visa Application Verify that your responses are accurate, and then print the form.
• Valid Passport.
• A recent photo in passport size.
• Evidence of residency.
• Visa support.
• Statements of Account for the past three months.

Appointment Waiting Times

Appointment waiting times can vary depending on where you are from. You will not always be required to attend an appointment.

Who Can Visit Russia Without a Visa?

Diplomatic and official passport holders may stay in Russia for up to 90 days without accreditation. Citizens of Serbia with temporary or permanent resident permits may remain indefinitely. In all other instances, a visa is necessary. The visa-free regime is not applicable to Yugoslavian citizens.