Extending of stay for foreigners in the Russian Federation with e-visas

The head of the Federal Agency for Tourism Zarina Doguzova made a proposal to increase the stay of foreign tourists on e-visa to 16 days.

“As for the validity period of e-visa, we proceed from the fact that number of days of stay in its framework will be increased from 8 to 14 days at least. Perhaps it will be increased to 16 days. In any case, we took the initiative,” Doguzova said.

According to adviser of the department head Dmitry Gorin, stay of foreigners for 16 days in Russia will be more interesting, and introduction of e-visas will increase the tourist flow to Russia by 30–40%.

Also, the Federal Agency for Tourism is going to expand subsidy programs for tour operators inviting foreign tourists to Russia.

Foreign tourists can visit with e-visas the Far East and Kaliningrad region. From 1 October, it will be possible to apply for e-visa to enter St. Petersburg and Leningrad oblast. Foreign citizens must fill out electronic form on the website of the Russian Foreign Ministry at least four calendar days before the trip. E-visa is valid for 30 days and allows to stay in Russia no more than eight days from the moment of entry.

From 1January, 2021 foreign tourists will be able to receive e-visa for trips to all regions of Russia.

Extending of validity period of e-visa, as well as geography expanding of its operation will increase the flow of foreign tourists to Russia.