AndyIntroduction
This article provides basic information about how to apply for a Russian visa from the UK. All information was correct at the time of writing, but because regulations change from time to time, we can take no responsibility for its accuracy.
If you want to avoid the hassle and stress of applying for your own visa, we recommend using the services of a visa support company, such as Visa HQ. You can check your own personal requirements using the form just to the right (just pick your citizenship and the destination country using the drop-down boxes, then click on ‘check requirements’).
Russian Visas for UK citizens
If you are a UK citizen then, yes, you will need a visa to travel to Russia. There are several different kinds of visas available, but the most common are Russian Tourist Visas and Russian Business Visas. Tourist Visas are valid for up to 30 days, business visas for 3 months (single and double entry) or up to 1 year (multiple entry).
If you are flying to another country and just stopping over in Russia without leaving the airport, then you might not need a Russian Transit Visa, but you should check this with the embassy and your airline to be certain.
How to apply for a Russian Visa in the UK
The Russian Embassy in London, famous for its poor service, has recently hired an external company to process Russian Visa applications in the UK. This has made the process much simpler. The company that now processes Russian visas is called VFS Global, and you can find detailed information about the application process at the VFS Global website.
To apply in person, you will need to attend one of the following addresses.
Russian Visa London
15-27 Gee Street
London EC1V 3RD
Russian Visa Edinburgh
16 Forth Street
Edinburgh EH1 3LH
Documents Required for Russian Tourist application
For any Russian Visa application, you will need to provide a great deal of documentation. The list below is a brief outline – for the exact details, please see your application form.
[jcolumns][jbox color=”blue” title=”Russian Tourist Visa (UK citizen)”]Current Passport (valid for sixth months after visa expires)Completed Russian Visa Application Form
Passport photo
Invitation from authorised Russian travel agent.
3 months bank statements (if self employed)[/jbox] [jcol/][jbox color=”blue” title=”Russian Business Visa (UK citizen)”]Current Passport (valid for six months AND 2 blank pages)
Completed Application Form
Passport photo
Invitation from Russian Foreign Ministry
Introductory letter from your company[/jbox][/jcolumns]
As we noted above, though, applying for a visa is still quite stressful, and we recommend using the services of a private Russian visa company who will be able to support you through the whole process.
