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With very few exceptions all visitors to Russia require
a visa obtained in advance. In the United States, fees start at
$70 for two week processing of a tourist visa (limited to 30 days
duration). Rush service is available for additional fees.
In order to obtain a visa you need to be invited by a recognized
Russian organization. For tourists this is usually obtained through
the hotel or tour operator they employ.
Visitors also must register their visas within three business
days of their arrival or face penalties (or detention) when asked
to present identification or when departing Russia.
Most often the hotel will do this for you.
 Note that
everyone in Russia must carry state-issued identification papers,
which means that foreigners must carry their passport and visa
at all times and present it to police officers if asked. This
can seem intimidating to people who grew up in the West but it
is the law in Russia. If a police officer stops you, they normally
salute you and ask for your passport and papers (generally in
Russian). Hand these to them, they will look at it, hand it back
and salute you.
We can assist you in obtaining your visa support and visa as part
of the support services
we offer.
For information on obtaining a visa directly from the Russian
Consulate, go to www.RussianEmbassy.org
NOTE: As of May 1, 2002, American males between 16 and 45
must fill out an additional form detailing, among other things,
their education, charitable contributions and military service.
This is in response to the American anti-terrorist measures instituted
by the Immigration and Naturalization Service earlier this year.
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