Russia expands e-Visa program: new opportunities for 11 countries

On December 5, 2024, the Russian Prime Minister signed Executive Order No. 3583-r, which radically expands the e-Visa program for foreign nationals. Citizens of 11 new countries are now able to apply for an eVisa to visit Russia, including Barbados, Bhutan, Jordan, Kenya, Papua New Guinea, St. Lucia, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkmenistan, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, and Zimbabwe.

However, due to new bilateral visa-free travel agreements with Russia, Andorra and Serbia have been removed from the list of countries eligible for e-Visas. Thus, the total number of countries, including Germany, eligible for eVisa now stands at 64.

In addition, the Russian government continues to consider key changes to the e-Visa rules. In particular, it is proposed to increase the validity of the eVisa from 60 to 120 days and to extend the authorized period of stay from 16 to 30 days. However, the implementation dates and confirmation of these changes remain unknown at this time.

The e-Visa is available for a wide variety of purposes, including tourism, business, humanitarian and private visits, and does not require additional supporting documents such as invitations or hotel booking confirmations. Applications are processed within five days and the eVisa is free of charge for children under 6 years of age.

These changes are aimed at simplifying the visa process and attracting more tourists and businessmen to Russia, which is an important step towards developing the country's economy and strengthening international ties.

Stay up-to-date on visa policy changes and get up-to-date travel planning advice by following the news on Visa-Navigator.com.