Business Visa Requirements. Detailed instructions.

The following documents must be presented to the Russian Consulate:

1. Visa invitation A letter of invitation for a BUSINESS visa from your business contacts in the Russian Federation.  In some cases the invitation can be sent by telex from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in Russia to its Consulate.
2. Consular Questionnaire One (1) completed Questionnaire or Visa Application form. An application form can also be obtained at the Consulate. It can be photocopied. Fax-copied forms are not accepted.
3. Photo One (1) recent professional identity photo of the applicant, passport size. The photo can be black-and-white or colour, preferably on mat paper. The photo should be attached to the application form in the upper right-hand corner as indicated on the form.
4. Passport or travel document which should be valid for at least 6 months after the expiry date of the visa.

For some types of visas and for nationals of certain countries Consulates may demand some or all of the following documents:

• Medical insurance
• Work or residence permit
• HIV certificate (for visas issued for more than 90 days)
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay in Russia
• Copy of the main page of the passport
• Other

As soon as you receive your visa, please check it and if you discover any mistakes return it to the Consulate for correction.
The Consular fee usually depends on:

• the type of visa
• the applicant’s citizenship
• how quickly it is processed (express service is more expensive)

The Consular fee and method of payment varies between the different Consulates.
Visa processing fees are not refundable. Consulates do not accept any applications by mail.
The Consulate will not be responsible for any mistakes which are not brought to its attention before departure.
The fee and conditions for applying for a business visa at a Russian Consulate are specific for each Consulate.
All foreign nationals arriving in Russia must register their visa within three working days.

If you are staying in a hotel:
The hotel should register your visa for the period of your stay.

If you are renting an apartment:
You should contact our company for registration.

Unregistered visas can cause problems and delays with even the most common tasks that require a passport for identification and you may be obliged to pay a fine or be held by the police (militia).