From August 1, traveling to Russia is set to become easier for Indian passport holders as Russia is launching its electronic visa (e-visa) facility for citizens of 52 countries, including India. The e-visa will be processed within a maximum of four days, and applicants will be charged a $40 consular fee for the convenience.
Indian travelers can take advantage of this new e-visa facility for various purposes, including business trips, guest visits, and tourism. The e-visa will be valid for 60 days, allowing tourists to stay in Russia for up to 16 days at a time. In some cases, citizens of certain countries may even be eligible for a tourist visa lasting up to six months if they have hotel reservations.
This move is expected to streamline the visa application process, reduce processing time, and offer a more convenient option for Indian tourists planning to visit Russia. It will cut down on extensive documentation requirements and provide easier access to the country.
The war in Ukraine has significantly impacted Russian tourism, particularly from Western countries. Official figures indicate that foreign tourist arrivals to Russia dropped by 40% from 290,000 in 2021 to 190,000 in 2022. In response to this decline, Russia is seeking to establish closer ties with other countries, including China, India, and African nations.
With the introduction of the e-visa facility for Indian passport holders, Russia aims to attract more tourists and improve its international relations with key partners. This development comes as a positive step for Indian travelers looking to explore Russia’s diverse culture, heritage, and landscapes, providing them with a more accessible and hassle-free option to plan their trips.