Russian Visa
Aug 21, 2012, 8:41 am
#1
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Russian Visa
I hope I'm posting this in the correct area. I am a natural-born US citizen. can anyone tell me if there is a SIMPLE way to obtain a Russian tourist visa - i.e. - recommendations based on your experince. I want to go to Moscow in October and before I book the trip, I'd like to know about obtaining a Visa. My internet search has been confusing, most notably this notion of a "sponsor" and who that might be? Thanks for any help.
Aug 21, 2012, 9:03 am
#2
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There's a Russia forum that's probably better suited to answer this question.
In particular, though, take a look through this thread; things are about to get much better for US citizens beginning sometime in September, so it may be advisable to hold off until more details on the implementation of this new arrangement are made available.
In particular, though, take a look through this thread; things are about to get much better for US citizens beginning sometime in September, so it may be advisable to hold off until more details on the implementation of this new arrangement are made available.
Aug 21, 2012, 9:59 am
#3
Senior Moderator and Moderator: American AAdvantage & TravelBuzz
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As mentioned, this query is probably better suited for the experts in the Russia forum to address, so we'll move this thread accordingly. Thanks! 
/JY1024, TravelBuzz co-moderator
/JY1024, TravelBuzz co-moderator
Aug 21, 2012, 11:19 am
#4
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As mentioned, you may want to wait for details on the new rules. And you cannot even apply until 45 days before your arrival. As of right now the simplest way is to use a service like Visahq. Their DC office handled 5 visas for my visit last month. I had to full out the initial questionnaire online, which takes a lot of time (Russia asks for a ton of information). But from there just had to sign, attach the pictures, and they took care of the rest. Received email updates at each stage and the process was completed in a couple weeks.
The "sponsor" is usually your hotel or a tour company that will issue you the invitation letter. I stayed at the W St. Petersburg and they created the letters for me.
The "sponsor" is usually your hotel or a tour company that will issue you the invitation letter. I stayed at the W St. Petersburg and they created the letters for me.
Sep 3, 2012, 2:34 am
#5
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Sep 5, 2012, 8:10 am
#6
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n process is going to change much. The visa itself is going to last quite a bit longer, though.
Sep 6, 2012, 8:14 pm
#7
Join Date: Nov 2003
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As mentioned, you may want to wait for details on the new rules. And you cannot even apply until 45 days before your arrival. As of right now the simplest way is to use a service like Visahq. Their DC office handled 5 visas for my visit last month. I had to full out the initial questionnaire online, which takes a lot of time (Russia asks for a ton of information). But from there just had to sign, attach the pictures, and they took care of the rest. Received email updates at each stage and the process was completed in a couple weeks.
The "sponsor" is usually your hotel or a tour company that will issue you the invitation letter. I stayed at the W St. Petersburg and they created the letters for me.
The "sponsor" is usually your hotel or a tour company that will issue you the invitation letter. I stayed at the W St. Petersburg and they created the letters for me.
Sep 23, 2012, 8:16 am
#8
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We are hoping to go to Russia in March. I see there's no longer an invitation requirement...does anyone know if the cost of the visa to Russia will be reduced?
Sep 24, 2012, 11:51 am
#9
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Sep 27, 2012, 4:22 pm
#10
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Please follow the discussion in the NEW Russian more liberal Visa rules (Sep 2012) thread.
JDiver, Senior Moderator
JDiver, Senior Moderator