Russia’s Electronic Visa System 

Russia took a significant step towards digitalizing its entry process at the borders with the launch of an end-to-end electronic visa system. The move is in line with Russia’s general policy of simplifying immigration control, developing tourism, and facilitating international cooperation. The system, effective as of 2025, has two main components: 

• A Unified Electronic Visa (e-Visa) for citizens of some states.
• An upcoming Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for visa-free travelers, to be implemented on June 30, 2025. 

Below is a full description of how the system works, who it caters to, and what visitors should expect. 

1. Unified Electronic Visa (e-Visa) 

What It Is: 

The e-Visa is an entry visa granted once, fully online, allowing visitors to enter Russia for the purpose of tourism, business, private visits, or humanitarian reasons. 

Countries Eligible: 

Citizens of over 60 countries qualify for the e-Visa, including: 

• China
• India
• Japan
• Turkey
• Most EU nations
• GCC nations like UAE and Saudi Arabia
• Choose African nations such as South Africa and Zimbabwe 

The list is liable to official revision by the Russian government. 

Validity and Period of Stay: 

• Visa validity period: 60 days from date of issue
• Authorized stay: Up to 16 days on each visit 

(Extensions to 30 days are under consideration in the future.) 

Application Details

You will need: 

• A valid passport for a minimum period of six months
• A digital passport-style photo
• An online application at least 4 calendar days prior to travel
• A payment of the visa fee (approximately €50; free for children under 6 years)
• No hotel bookings or invitations are required on application. 

Entry Points: 

• You can enter Russia using the e-Visa at more than 100 approved entry points, including:
• Major international airports in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Vladivostok
• Some land border crossings and seaports 

2. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) – Launching June 30, 2025 

What Is the ETA? 

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a pre-entry clearance for citizens of visa-free countries that have an agreement with Russia. They are from places like: 

• Argentina
• South Korea
• Israel
• United Arab Emirates
• Brazil 

They do not need a visa but will be required to pre-register their entry details electronically. 

How the ETA Will Work: 

Application will be through a mobile application or government website. 

Visitors will be required to present: 

• Personal and passport data
• Travel itinerary (port of arrival and region to travel within)
• Biometric data (photograph, fingerprints, and optionally, voice print) 

Window of application: 

• Not more than 90 days before traveling
• Not more than 72 hours before traveling
• Emergency applications accepted up to 4 hours before traveling
• Upon approval, the travelers will receive a QR code, which they are to present at the Russian border. 

Biometric Verification: 

The travelers are to be biometrically screened at the point of entry, including: 

• Fingerprint scanning
• Facial recognition
• Optional voice matching 

These efforts comprise a new Russian digital identity system intended to make border control easier and more secure. 

Quick Comparison: e-Visa vs. ETA

• Always verify your passport’s validity (at least 6 months after your entry date).
• Print your e-Visa or save it digitally.
• For ETA, ensure your QR code can be scanned at the border.
• Both systems are required, regardless of your nationality even for merely transiting in Russia.
• You may be charged a fine, deported, or barred from entry for overstaying your allowed period. 

Russia’s policy of electronic visa is a world revolution in travel to the country. It is proof of international migration to virtual border control that makes life simple for tourists and business visitors and enhances national security. Traveling to the Red Square, Lake Baikal, or economic partnership, understanding the Russia electronic visa process is the secret to a smooth trip.