ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Important Note: For entry into Russia AND departure from Russia, foreign citizens including those who enter on a visa-free basis and persons without citizenship, must obtain and fill in a MIGRATION CARD upon arrival in Russia. The migration card with marks of entry into Russia made by a border control unit, should be produced when the foreign citizen registers with a territorial section of the Ministry of Internal Affairs or a hotel. The migration card is to be returned at the Russian Federation’s Frontier check point when the foreigner leaves the country.

The main purpose of the migration card is to establish control over entry, stay and departure of foreigners from Russia as well as accumulation and subsequent analysis of statistical data.

VISA INFORMATION

No visa required for stays up to 90 days.

  • The original invitation issued by the Federal Migration Service or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must be submitted to the Embassy. A TELEX confirmation from the Ministry of Internal Affairs or it’s Regional Representatives going directly to the Consular Office is also acceptable.
  • In the case of a multiple entry visa, the applicant must adhere to all the above mentioned requirements PLUS an AIDS test (not older than 3 months) must be provided.

Visitors/private visa (in addition to General)

  • Inviting person, Russian citizen must appeal to the local representation of the Federal Migration Service in order to organise an official invitation. A foreigner currently residing in Russia appeals to the Federal Migration Service for the invitation. Only original invitation is accepted when lodging a visa application.

Transit visa

  • Passport (must be valid for 6 months after departure from Russia)
  • Application form with photo attached
  • Visa of country of final destination
  • Air ticket to and from Russia to the country of final destination
  • Transit visa cannot be issued for more than 3 days by plane and 10 days by land (car,train etc)
  • Embassy in Pretoria:
    • Address: 316 Brooks Street, Menlo Park
    • Phone: +27 12 362 7116
    • Email: pretoria@dks.ru
    • Website: Russian Embassy in South Africa
  • Consulate in Cape Town:
    • Address: 12th Floor Norton Rose House, 8 Riebeek Street
    • Phone: +27 21 418 3656 / 57
    • Email: consular@russiacapetown.org.za
    • Website: Russian Consulate in Cape Town

WEATHER

  • Spring (March to May): Spring begins with lingering cold temperatures in March, often still dipping below freezing, especially in northern regions. As the season progresses into April and May, temperatures gradually rise, typically ranging from 5°C to 20°C. This season sees melting snow, blooming flowers, and longer daylight hours. It’s a time of renewal, and cities come alive with outdoor festivals and activities. However, early spring can still be chilly, so layers are recommended.
  • Summer (June to August): Summers are warm to hot, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C in most areas. Southern regions can experience even higher temperatures, occasionally exceeding 35°C. This season is generally dry, making it perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and cultural events. The extended daylight hours mean more time for exploration, and cities host numerous festivals, concerts, and outdoor activities. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers.
  • Fall (September to November): Fall begins with mild weather in September, where temperatures can still reach around 15°C to 20°C. As the season progresses, temperatures drop, especially in October and November, often falling below 10°C. This season showcases stunning autumn foliage, particularly in parks and rural areas. It can be a bit rainy, especially in October, but the cooler weather is often pleasant for exploring cities. November can feel quite cold, with the first snowfalls occurring in many regions.
  • Winter (December to February): Winters in Russia are long and harsh, with temperatures often plunging to -20°C or -30°C in many areas. Siberia can experience extreme conditions, with some regions seeing temperatures even lower. Heavy snowfall transforms the landscape into a picturesque winter wonderland. While the cold can be intense, winter sports, ice festivals, and cozy indoor experiences make it a unique time to visit. Cities often sparkle with holiday lights and decorations, especially around New Year’s and Orthodox Christmas.
  • Best Time to Travel: Late Spring (May to June) and Early Fall (September) are typically the best times to visit Russia for mild weather, beautiful scenery, and fewer crowds. However, winter is perfect for those seeking a truly unique experience and winter activities.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Country: Russian Federation
Capital City: Moscow
International Airports: – Sevastopol International Airport (Belbek)
– Gagarinsky International Airport
– Vladivostok International Airport (Knevichi)
– Baikal International Airport (Mukhino)
– Irkutsk International Airport
– Koltsovo International Airport
– Roshchino International Airport
– Surgut International Airport
– Sabetta International Airport
– Magnitogorsk International Airport
– Volgograd International Airport (Gumrak)
– Sochi International Airport
– Simferopol International Airport
– Platov International Airport
– Krasnodar International Airport (Pashkovsky)
– Ufa International Airport
– Kurumoch International Airport
– Perm International Airport (Bolshoye Savino)
– Strigino International Airport
– Kazan International Airport
– Cheboksary International Airport
– Voronezh International Airport (Chertovitskoye)
– Ostafyevo International Business Airport
– Zhukovsky International Airport (Ramenskoye)
– Vnukovo International Airport
– Sheremetyevo International Airport
– Bryansk International Airport
– Belgorod International Airport
Area: 17,075,400 km²
Population: 143,957,079 (2024 est.)
Time Zone: GMT +04:00 in Moscow, extending to UTC +12:00 in the extreme east.
Russia spans 11 time zones.
Religion: Orthodox Christianity
Islam
Judaism
Buddhism
Language: Russian (official)
Tatar
Chechen
35 regional languages are also recognized.
Currency: Rouble (RUB)
– Notes: RUB 1000, 500, 100, 50, and 10
– Coins: RUB 10, 5, 2, and 1, as well as 50, 10, 5, and 1 kopek
– Import and export of local currency is prohibited.
Exchange Rate: Please consult your local bank as exchange rates fluctuate.
Credit Card Payment Availability: Most cards are widely accepted.
ATM Accessibility: ATM’s are readily available.
Dialling Code: +7

TRAVEL TIPS

Electricity: Voltage: 220V
Frequency: 50 Hz
Water: Drink only bottled or distilled water.
Business Hours: – Offices and Banks: 08:00 or 09:00 – 17:00 or 18:00, Monday to Friday
– Shops: 09:00 – 19:00, Monday to Saturday
– Food Shops: Open on Sundays
– Department Stores and Supermarkets: Open throughout lunchtime; 24-hour stores are becoming more common.
Banking Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00/09:00 – 17:00/18:00
Photography Restrictions: No specific restrictions.
Tipping: – Restaurants: 10-15% of the bill.
– Porters: 30-90 Rubles per bag.
– Housekeeping: 60-120 Rubles per day.
– Taxi Drivers: Tipping is not necessary.
Vaccination Requirements: No specific vaccinations required but consult with your medical practitioner or travel clinic for additional advice.
Dress Code Restrictions: No specific dress code restrictions.
Peculiar Customs to Observe: – When greeting someone at the door, do not shake hands over the threshold; wait until you are inside.
– Leaving a small amount of food on your plate indicates that your host has provided ample hospitality.

FESTIVALS

  • Russian Orthodox Christmas: January 7
  • Maslenitsa Festival: Pre-Lenten carnival
  • International Women’s Day: March
  • Russian Orthodox Easter Week: March/April
  • Stars of White Nights Festival: May – July
  • St Petersburg Beer Festival: June
  • International Moscow Film Festival: June – July
  • St John the Baptist’s Day: July
  • Den’ Goroda: September
  • Russian Winter Festival: Mid-December

MAP

“Russia is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma”

– Winston Churhill