Originally Posted by
joer1212
Hmm. Any reason why I should use Visahq.com instead of the ILS site that the Russian consulate has used to outsource its visa processing?
No, you misunderstood the process. If you want to apply for visa directly (with all necessary documents), you would go to the consulate in the past. Now, you have to do it through ILS. It is still considered a direct application, and it would still be your responsibility to gather all necessary bureaucratic paperwork.
On the other hand, VisaHQ does more than just apply for visa on your behalf. They obtain all necessary documentation and forms too - as a result, you get a visa in your passport without doing all this work yourself.
Also, I am concerned about mailing my passport, lest it get lost, especially since I cannot apply for a visa until about 2 months before my travel date.
Use FedEx or UPS then. Sure, it is better to go in person if you live in the same city as VisaHQ offices. Just keep in mind that applying for a Russian visa yourself would be time-consuming, even if you manage to save some $$.