Russia - 24-Hour Visa to Russia from Finn Border?

Anyone know for certain if it's possible for for one to obtain a one day entrance visa to Russia from the Finnish border? We plan to rent a car while in Finland and drive along the Eastern side of Finland. If we find a border crossing, will the Russians allow us to enter their country using a one day visa? Or is it possible to take a one day shopping cruise from Helsinki to St. Petersberg without a formally issued visa? Thanks to anyone who may have information relative to these matters.

I've never heard of a visa available on the border of Russia. I don't think exists.

There is visa free entry into St. Petersburg for cruise ship passengers remaining less than 72 hours and sleeping on their cruise ship. You'd have to find out if the shopping boat qualifies.

If you American, unless you are on a cruise ship with tour, as far as I know, you must apply for a visa from the U.S. or your country of your residence.

I recently received a visa from Russian consulate in Belgium (I have US passport with Belgian residency card). When I applied for visa, my flight was in 9 business days, but they said processing would take 10 business days (no exception), so I had to change travel plans.

You can take a visa-free cruise from Helsinki and stay in St.Petersburg for up to 72 hours. Starting from November 2011, you can even bring your own car.

The prerequisite is that you book (but don't have to take part in) a shore excursion. The cheapest excursion is really just a transfer with a minibus to the city center and currently costs 20 euros.

If you stay overnight, you also have to pre-book and pay for your accomodation + check into your hotel/hostel.

You also need to hop on the boat that you arrived on and return by ferry.
Leaving via air is out of the question (or any other means) since you will need an exit visa