Originally Posted by
MaecDavidMiller
Greetings,
We obtain at least 2-3 1 year business visas for our clients every month. The biggest advantages include (a) no need to apply (and wait) for a visa on each trip, (b) the ability to another country during your trip (i.e., dual entry) without deciding in advance the EXACT dates, (c) the ability to stay longer than 30 days at a time (although you can't stay more than 180 days total per year with the one year visa).
Registration can sometimes be a challenge, so especially if you are not staying in a hotel you'll want to work with people who know what they are doing.
At least the NY Consulate does not currently require an HIV test, at least for those who previously had a tourist visa. The documentation required is the same for a 1 year visa as it is for a 30 day tourist visa (at least for our clients).
Costs - Business "invitation" 150.
Embassy Fee - 150
Total = 300?
Two visits to Russia and you've hit that.
Yes, the registration can be a ....., but the latest rules help. 7 days. I usually end up getting a hotel, not wanting to inconvenience my friends with the registration, which is entirely in Russian, and PAIN. Waiting at the post office, getting in line, EEH.