Business visa

 Single-entry and double-entry business visas can be valid for the period of no longer than 90 days.

Multiple Entry Business visa can be valid for 1 year only.

(Please note that  Multiple Entry Business visa is NOT a Residence Permit. You can use it  NOT for staying in Russia but for multiple business re-entries only.

According to the Russian Migration Law foreign citizen with Multiple Entry Visa can stay in Russia only 90 days within each 180 days period.)

Documents required for all type of business visas:

1. Official invitation (sample) issued by the Russian Federal Migration Service, Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)  or its regional offices. Or six digit reference number of your visa support information (MFA telex #) sent directly to the Consulate. This type of invitation or reference number can be obtained by you from your  Russian business partner. (The official invitation must contain: official seal and legal address of the agency, document registration number, date of registration, signature and name of an authorized official, travel itinerary, dates of stay, names of persons invited. We reserve the right to request originals of any invitation).         

Copy of invitations for multiple business  visas are not accepted - please submit original only.

2. Passport (original). Passport must contain at least  two blank pages marked "visas", otherwise the passport and documents will not be accepted and will be returned. Passport must be valid no less than six months after visa expiration date.

Applicant's passport will be in the Consulate's possession within the whole period of visa processing.

3. Copy of the passport's vital pages (with personal data and photo).

4. Standard Application form (must be filled out completely with all information requested, must have original signature and dated), with one passport-size b\w or color photo glued or stapled at the place for photo on the application form. To download application form for US citizens click: Visa Application Form for US citizens . To download application form for non US citizens or individuals with no citizenship click: .

For multiple entry visa please attach two original Standard Application forms + 2 photos.

5. Cover letter from your company (or from yourself if you are traveling individually) with information about the traveler, destination, terms and purpose of the trip, cities to be visited in Russia and telephone or facsimile number where you can be reached.

6. For the former Soviet citizens only: При подаче документов на визу необходимо предоставить один из документов, подтверждающий отсутствие у заявителя на настоящий момент российского гражданства (копия выездной визы СССР, копия заграничного паспорта СССР или паспорта государства СНГ, с которым вы выезжали, копия свидетельства о натурализации США до 1997 года, иной документ). В соответствии с действующим российским законодательством российские визы гражданам России в том числе, имеющим просроченные российские загранпаспорта, не оформляются.

7. For Non US Passport holders only: You may apply for Russian visa in the Consulate only if you have US Green Card or long term non-immigration legal status in US valid not less than 6 months from the date of your Russian visa application. Please enclose the copy of this document or show it in your passport.

Applications from the holders of US tourist visas or short term visitors are NOT acceptable. You have to apply in the country of your residence only.

8. Visa fee and processing time information can be found here - Fees & Time schedules .

Method of payment. Visa processing fee is payable to the Russian Consulate General in San Francisco by money order, cashier's check only. Cash, company check or personal checks are NOT acceptable.

Please read important Additional rules and information which might apply to specifically to you.

After approval you may pick up your passport with visa from the Consulate in person or someone can do it on your behalf  or it can be sent to you back by registered mail.

    Due to security reasons and in order to avoid delivery lost or delay

 it can be done by FedEx service ONLY

using your FedEx account number ONLY

(NO DEBIT or CREDIT CARD ACCOUNTS)

Please, don’t forget to enclose completely filled prepaid FedEx envelope or prepaid FedEx US Airbill with your FedEx account number. For international delivery (US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico etc.) please, enclose completely filled prepaid International Air Waybill with your FedEx account number. If you want Consulate to send your documents back by mail and you fail to follow the above-mentioned requirements your visa application will not be processed until we receive from you prepaid FedEx envelope\ Air Waybill with your FedEx account number.

Any other ways of mail delivery from the Consulate are not accepted any more.

 

The Consulate may request additional documentation. Visa processing starts only after we have collected all necessary documents. All paperwork once submitted is not subject to any change of the announced visa processing period or the period of stay in Russia indicated in valid invitation available at the moment of submission. If applicant needs to make changes in submitted paperwork before visa is processed, all documentation will be returned to applicant for resubmission. Visa-processing fee paid is not refundable. In case applicant requests correction in visa due to any reason other than computer misprint, applicant will have to reapply for a new visa. It is not possible to expedite visa processing after your documents have been accepted by the Consulate. The Consulate will not bear any responsibility for the errors in visas, which were not brought to our attention before departure from the USA and beforehand, within time allowing to review such visa. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

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Private (homestay) visa   (type 1)

If you have have relatives or friends in Russia (Private citizens) you may apply for this type of visa submitting a standard Private (Homestay) Invitation.  It can be obtained by your Russian relatives or friends from a local office of Russian Federal Migration Service located in the Russian Federation only.

Private (homestay)  visa (type 1) can be valid for single or double entries for the period up to three months only.

Documents required:

1. Standard invitation (original only) (sample).
2. Passport (original). Passport must contain at least two blank pages marked "visas", otherwise the passport and documents will not be accepted and will be returned. Passport must be valid no less than six months after visa expiration date.         Applicant's passport will be in the Consulate's possession within the whole period of visa processing.
3. Copy of the passport's vital pages (with personal data and photo).
4. Standard Application form (must be filled out completely with all information requested, must have original signature and dated), with one passport-size b\w or color photo glued or stapled at the place for photo on the application form. To download application form for US citizens click: Visa Application Form for US citizens . To download application form for non US citizens or individuals with no citizenship click: .
5. Cover letter specifying purpose of visit, dates of arrival and departure, cities to be visited in Russia and telephone or facsimile number where you can be reached.
6. For the former Soviet citizens only: При подаче документов на визу необходимо предоставить один из документов, подтверждающий отсутствие у заявителя на настоящий момент российского гражданства (копия выездной визы СССР, копия заграничного паспорта СССР или паспорта государства СНГ, с которым вы выезжали, копия свидетельства о натурализации США до 1997 года, иной документ). В соответствии с действующим российским законодательством российские визы гражданам России в том числе, имеющим просроченные российские загранпаспорта, не оформляются.

   7. For Non US Passport holders only: You may apply for Russian visa in the Consulate only if you have US Green Card or long term non-immigration legal status in US valid not less than 6 months from the date of your Russian visa application. Please enclose the copy of this document or show it in your passport.

   Applications from the holders of US tourist visas or short term visitors are NOT acceptable. You have to apply in the country of your residence only.

   8. Visa fee and processing time information can be found here - Fees & Time schedules .

 Method of payment. Visa processing fee is payable to the Russian Consulate General in San Francisco by money order, cashier's check only. Cash, company check or personal checks are NOT acceptable.

Please read important Additional rules and information which might apply to specifically to you.

After approval you may pick up your passport with visa from the Consulate in person or someone can do it on your behalf  or it can be sent to you back by registered mail.

     Due to security reasons and in order to avoid delivery lost or delay

 it can be done by FedEx service ONLY

using your FedEx account number ONLY

(NO DEBIT or CREDIT CARD ACCOUNTS)

Please, don’t forget to enclose completely filled prepaid FedEx envelope or prepaid FedEx US Airbill with your FedEx account number. For international delivery (US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico etc.) please, enclose completely filled prepaid International Air Waybill with your FedEx account number. If you want Consulate to send your documents back by mail and you fail to follow the above-mentioned requirements your visa application will not be processed until we receive from you prepaid FedEx envelope\ Air Waybill with your FedEx account number.

Any other ways of mail delivery from the Consulate are not accepted any more.

 

The Consulate may request additional documentation. Visa processing starts only after we have collected all necessary documents. All paperwork once submitted is not subject to any change of the announced visa processing period or the period of stay in Russia indicated in valid invitation available at the moment of submission. If applicant needs to make changes in submitted paperwork before visa is processed, all documentation will be returned to applicant for resubmission. Visa-processing fee paid is not refundable. In case applicant requests correction in visa due to any reason other than computer misprint, applicant will have to reapply for a new visa. It is not possible to expedite visa processing after your documents have been accepted by the Consulate. The Consulate will not bear any responsibility for the errors in visas, which were not brought to our attention before departure from the USA and beforehand, within time allowing to review such visa. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

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Private (Homestay Visa) (type 2)

for the relatives (husband, wife, minor child) of the Russian Citizen who has residency in US  

If your wife or husband is a Russian Citizen with valid Russian Foreign Passport and US residency and you intend to travel to Russia together she\he may submit special application to the Consulate to issue Private (Home Stay) Visa (type 2) for you or (and) your joint minor child.

In this case Standard Invitation from the Russian Federal Migration Service is NOT required any more.

Visa processing time for this type of visa application is not less than seven working days (no express service).

This type of visa can be valid for single or double entries (depending on air tickets information) for the period up to three months only.

Russian Citizen - applicant must submit application to the Consulate in person only

(no mail or visa processing agency). 

Presence of the family members who are going to travel is NOT required.

Documents required:

1. Special application to the Consul General of the Russian Federation in San Francisco (click ) with the copy of the valid Russian Foreign Passport of the applicant-Russian citizen and document confirming her\his US residency (Green Card, US Passport).

2. Your Passport (original) and\or passport of your joint minor child. Passport must contain at least two blank pages marked "visas", otherwise the passport and documents will not be accepted and will be returned. Passports must be valid no less than six months after visa expiration date.                                                                    Applicant's passport will be in the Consulate's possession within the whole period of visa processing.

3. Copy of your husband\wife and\or your joint child passport's vital pages (with personal data and photo).

4. Standard Application form (must be filled out completely with all information requested, must have original signature and dated), with one passport-size b\w or color photo glued or stapled at the place for photo on the application form. To download application form for US citizens click: Visa Application Form for US citizens . To download application form for non US citizens or individuals with no citizenship click: .

Each visa applicant must submit separate application even for minor child (including newborn or enfant).

5. Original or copy of Marriage Certificate or Child's Birth Certificate.

6. Original or copy of Russian or US Court Decision with full custody over the  child has to be submitted only if visa applicant-Russian Citizen is not a biological parent.

7. Copy of round trip air tickets for applicant - Russian Citizen and his family - Foreign Citizens.

8. Notarized non-objection statement (in simple form) from another parent – Foreign citizen that he\she permits his\her child to travel abroad with his\her parent-Russian citizen. This statement is required in all cases (parents intend to travel together with their child or one parent-Russian citizen is traveling alone with his\her child – Foreign citizen).

This statement is not required if your child is a Russian Citizen. In this case no visas is required for him\her (he\she must travel with valid Russian Foreign Travel Passport only).

9. Cover letter specifying purpose of visit, dates of arrival and departure, cities to be visited in Russia and telephone or facsimile number where you can be reached.

10. For the former Soviet citizens only: При подаче документов на визу необходимо предоставить один из документов, подтверждающий отсутствие у заявителя на настоящий момент российского гражданства (копия выездной визы СССР, копия заграничного паспорта СССР или паспорта государства СНГ, с которым вы выезжали, копия свидетельства о натурализации США до 1997 года, иной документ). В соответствии с действующим российским законодательством российские визы гражданам России в том числе, имеющим просроченные российские загранпаспорта, не оформляются.

11. For Non US Passport holders only: You may apply for Russian visa in the Consulate only if you have US Green Card or long term non-immigration legal status in US valid not less than 6 months from the date of your Russian visa application. Please enclose the copy of this document or show it in your passport.

Applications from the holders of US tourist visas or short term visitors are NOT acceptable. You have to apply in the country of your residence only.

12. Visa fee and processing time information can be found here - Fees & Time schedules .

Method of payment. Visa processing fee is payable to the Russian Consulate General in San Francisco by money order or cashier's check only. Cash, company check or personal checks are NOT acceptable.

After approval you may pick up your passport with visa from the Consulate in person or someone can do it on your behalf  or it can be sent to you back by registered mail.

    Due to security reasons and in order to avoid delivery lost or delay

 it can be done by FedEx service ONLY

using your FedEx account number ONLY

(NO DEBIT or CREDIT CARD ACCOUNTS)

Please, don’t forget to enclose completely filled prepaid FedEx envelope or prepaid FedEx US Airbill with your FedEx account number. For international delivery (US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico etc.) please, enclose completely filled prepaid International Air Waybill with your FedEx account number. If you want Consulate to send your documents back by mail and you fail to follow the above-mentioned requirements your visa application will not be processed until we receive from you prepaid FedEx envelope\ Air Waybill with your FedEx account number.

Any other ways of mail delivery from the Consulate are not accepted any more.

The Consulate may request additional documentation. Visa processing starts only after we have collected all necessary documents. All paperwork once submitted is not subject to any change of the announced visa processing period or the period of stay in Russia indicated in valid invitation available at the moment of submission. If applicant needs to make changes in submitted paperwork before visa is processed, all documentation will be returned to applicant for resubmission. Visa-processing fee paid is not refundable. In case applicant requests correction in visa due to any reason other than computer misprint, applicant will have to reapply for a new visa. It is not possible to expedite visa processing after your documents have been accepted by the Consulate. The Consulate will not bear any responsibility for the errors in visas, which were not brought to our attention before departure from the USA and beforehand, within time allowing to review such visa. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

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Tourist visa

 

ATTENTION  CRUISE  SEA SHIP PASSENGERS !

According to the Russian Immigration Law

if you travel on a Cruise sea ship

and during your stay in the Russian seaport on the same ship board

have organized group tourist program

you don't need tourist visa for the period of 72 hours.

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All other applicants have to apply for tourist visa.

Standard tourist visa can be single-entry or double-entry and can be issued for no longer than 30 days only.

Documents required:

1. Standard "Confirmation" and "Tourist Voucher" from Russian travel agency or  Standard "Hotel Confirmation" and "Hotel Voucher" for accommodation from the Russian Hotel. Travel Agency or Hotel should be duly registered as a tourist company with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation and assigned a special reference number. This reference number should be indicated on the Confirmation Letter.

    - If you intend to stay in the Russian hotel (without visa support from the travel\visa processing agency located in the US) ask your Russian hotel management directly to send you by fax or e-mail Hotel Confirmation and Hotel Voucher (just let them know that you need visa support documents). For all reliable hotels it's standard procedure and they will assist you in this matter promptly.

   Please note: payment confirmation or reservation voucher can't be accepted by the Consulate for your visa processing.

    - Cruise sea (river) ship passengers without organized group tourist program are required to submit a letter from the Cruise Company and a Cruise Confirmation Letter from the Cruise company’s partner agency in Russia (ask your cruise operator for a copy of that letter prior to applying for a visa).

    2. Passport (original). Passport must contain at least two blank pages marked "visas", otherwise the passport and documents will not be accepted and will be returned. Passport must be valid no less than six months after visa expiration date.

   Applicant's passport will be in the Consulate's possession within the whole period of visa processing.

   3. Copy of the passport's vital pages (with personal data and photo).

   4. Standard Application form (must be filled out completely with all information requested, must have original signature and dated), with one passport-size b\w or color photo glued or stapled at the place for photo on the application form. To download application form for US citizens click: Visa Application Form for US citizens . To download application form for non US citizens or individuals with no citizenship click: . 

   5. Cover letter specifying purpose of visit, dates of arrival and departure, cities to be visited in Russia and telephone or facsimile number where you can be reached.

   6. For the former Soviet citizens only: При подаче документов на визу необходимо предоставить один из документов, подтверждающий отсутствие у заявителя на настоящий момент российского гражданства (копия выездной визы СССР, копия заграничного паспорта СССР или паспорта государства СНГ, с которым вы выезжали, копия свидетельства о натурализации США до 1997 года, иной документ). В соответствии с действующим российским законодательством российские визы гражданам России в том числе, имеющим просроченные российские загранпаспорта, не оформляются.

   7. For Non US Passport holders only: You may apply for Russian visa in the Consulate only if you have US Green Card or long term non-immigration legal status in US valid not less than 6 months from the date of your Russian visa application. Please enclose the copy of this document or show it in your passport.

   Applications from the holders of US tourist visas or short term visitors are NOT acceptable. You have to apply in the country of your residence only.

   8. Visa fee and processing time information can be found here - Fees & Time schedules .

Method of payment. Visa processing fee is payable to the Russian Consulate General in San Francisco by money order or cashier's check only. Cash, company check or personal checks are NOT acceptable.

 Please read important Additional rules and information which might apply to specifically to you.

After approval you may pick up your passport with visa from the Consulate in person or someone can do it on your behalf  or it can be sent to you back by registered mail.

    Due to security reasons and in order to avoid delivery lost or delay

 it can be done by FedEx service ONLY

using your FedEx account number ONLY

(NO DEBIT or CREDIT CARD  ACCOUNTS )

Please, don’t forget to enclose completely filled prepaid FedEx envelope or prepaid FedEx US Airbill with your FedEx account number. For international delivery (US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico etc.) please, enclose completely filled prepaid International Air Waybill with your FedEx account number. If you want Consulate to send your documents back by mail and you fail to follow the above-mentioned requirements your visa application will not be processed until we receive from you prepaid FedEx envelope\ Air Waybill with your FedEx account number.

Any other ways of mail delivery from the Consulate are not accepted any more.

 

The Consulate may request additional documentation. Visa processing starts only after we have collected all necessary documents. All paperwork once submitted is not subject to any change of the announced visa processing period or the period of stay in Russia indicated in valid invitation available at the moment of submission. If applicant needs to make changes in submitted paperwork before visa is processed, all documentation will be returned to applicant for resubmission. Visa-processing fee paid is not refundable. In case applicant requests correction in visa due to any reason other than computer misprint, applicant will have to reapply for a new visa. It is not possible to expedite visa processing after your documents have been accepted by the Consulate. The Consulate will not bear any responsibility for the errors in visas, which were not brought to our attention before departure from the USA and beforehand, within time allowing to review such visa. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

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Assistance can be provided by:
                                          

 

                

 

                                                        

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Student visas (short term or long term)

 

Short term student visa (valid for up to three months)

Short term student visa can be issued for the foreign students traveling for "Short term study",  "Russian language courses", "Courses", "Short term student exchange program" etc.

Short term student  visa can be valid for single or double entries.

Documents required:

1. Official Invitation issued by the Russian Federal Migration Service, Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or its regional offices. (sample)
2. Passport (original). Passport must contain at least two blank pages marked "visas", otherwise the passport and documents will not be accepted and will be returned. Passport must be valid no less than six month after visa expiration date.             Applicant's passport will be in the Consulate's possession within the whole period of visa processing.
3. Copy of the passport's vital pages (with personal data and photo).
4. Standard Application form (must be filled out completely with all information requested, must have original signature and dated), with one passport-size b\w or color photo glued or stapled at the place for photo on the application form. To download application form for US citizens click: Visa Application Form for US citizens. To download application form for non US citizens or individuals with no citizenship click: .
5. Original or copy of the letter from Russian University,  Institute or College confirming that applicant is traveling for short term study for the period of up to three months.
6. Original or copy of applicant's current diploma, educational certificate or official transcript  from his\her university\college.
7. Cover letter specifying purpose of visit, dates of arrival and departure, cities to be visited in Russia and telephone or facsimile number where you can be reached.
8.  For the former Soviet citizens only: При подаче документов на визу необходимо предоставить один из документов, подтверждающий отсутствие у заявителя на настоящий момент российского гражданства (копия выездной визы СССР, копия заграничного паспорта СССР или паспорта государства СНГ, с которым вы выезжали, копия свидетельства о натурализации США до 1997 года, иной документ). В соответствии с действующим российским законодательством российские визы гражданам России в том числе, имеющим просроченные российские загранпаспорта, не оформляются.

   11.  For Non US Passport holders only: You may apply for Russian visa in the Consulate only if you have US Green Card or long term non-immigration legal status in US valid not less than 6 months from the date of your Russian visa application. Please enclose the copy of this document or show it in your passport.

   Applications from the holders of US tourist visas or short term visitors are NOT acceptable. You have to apply in the country of your residence only.

   12. Visa fee and processing time information can be found here - Fees & Time schedules .

Method of payment. Visa processing fee is payable to the Russian Consulate General in San Francisco by money order or cashier's check only. Cash, company check or personal checks are NOT acceptable.

Please read important Additional rules and information which might apply to specifically to you.

After approval you may pick up your passport with visa from the Consulate in person or someone can do it on your behalf  or it can be sent to you back by registered mail.

    Due to security reasons and in order to avoid delivery lost or delay

 it can be done by FedEx service ONLY

using your FedEx account number ONLY

(NO DEBIT or CREDIT CARD ACCOUNTS)

Please, don’t forget to enclose completely filled prepaid FedEx envelope or prepaid FedEx US Airbill with your FedEx account number. For international delivery (US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico etc.) please, enclose completely filled prepaid International Air Waybill with your FedEx account number. If you want Consulate to send your documents back by mail and you fail to follow the above-mentioned requirements your visa application will not be processed until we receive from you prepaid FedEx envelope\ Air Waybill with your FedEx account number.

Any other ways of mail delivery from the Consulate are not accepted any more.

 

The Consulate may request additional documentation. Visa processing starts only after we have collected all necessary documents. All paperwork once submitted is not subject to any change of the announced visa processing period or the period of stay in Russia indicated in valid invitation available at the moment of submission. If applicant needs to make changes in submitted paperwork before visa is processed, all documentation will be returned to applicant for resubmission. Visa-processing fee paid is not refundable. In case applicant requests correction in visa due to any reason other than computer misprint, applicant will have to reapply for a new visa. It is not possible to expedite visa processing after your documents have been accepted by the Consulate. The Consulate will not bear any responsibility for the errors in visas, which were not brought to our attention before departure from the USA and beforehand, within time allowing to review such visa. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

 

Long term student visa (valid for more than three months)

Long term student visa can be issued for the foreign student who intend to study as full time student in Russia for the period of more than three months (usually one or more years) and has educational contract  with  Russian University or Institute.

Long term student  visa can be valid for single entry only.

Documents required:

1. Official Invitation issued by the Russian Federal Migration Service, Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or its regional offices. (sample)
2. Passport (original). Passport must contain at least two blank pages marked "visas", otherwise the passport and documents will not be accepted and will be returned. Passport must be valid no less than six month after visa expiration date.          Applicant's passport will be in the Consulate's possession within the whole period of visa processing.
3. Your current diploma or educational certificate, certified by the State or Federal authorities.
4. General health certificate on your current health condition (must be certified by Apostil at the local office of the Secretary of your State and translated into Russian, then certified by the Consulate)
5. Official hospital HIV (AIDS) Test Certificate (must be notarized and legalized  by Apostile at the local office of the Secretary of your State and translated into Russian, then certified by the Consulate).
6. Confirmation of the payment arrangement directly from the Russian University, Institute or College you are going to study at.
7. Copy of the passport's vital pages (with personal data and photo).
8. Standard Application form (must be filled out completely with all information requested, must have original signature and dated), with one passport-size b\w or color photo glued or stapled at the place for photo on the application form. To download application form for US citizens click: Visa Application Form for US citizens . To download application form for non US citizens or individuals with no citizenship click: .
9. Cover letter specifying purpose of visit, dates of arrival and departure, cities to be visited in Russia and telephone or facsimile number where you can be reached.
10.  For the former Soviet citizens only: При подаче документов на визу необходимо предоставить один из документов, подтверждающий отсутствие у заявителя на настоящий момент российского гражданства (копия выездной визы СССР, копия заграничного паспорта СССР или паспорта государства СНГ, с которым вы выезжали, копия свидетельства о натурализации США до 1997 года, иной документ). В соответствии с действующим российским законодательством российские визы гражданам России в том числе, имеющим просроченные российские загранпаспорта, не оформляются.

    11.  For Non US Passport holders only: You may apply for Russian visa in the Consulate only if you have US Green Card or long term non-immigration legal status in US valid not less than 6 months from the date of your Russian visa application. Please enclose the copy of this document or show it in your passport.

    Applications from the holders of US tourist visas or short term visitors are NOT acceptable. You have to apply in the country of your residence only.

    12. Visa fee and processing time information can be found here - Fees & Time schedules .

Method of payment. Visa processing fee is payable to the Russian Consulate General in San Francisco by money order or cashier's check only. Cash, company check or personal checks are NOT acceptable.

Please read important Additional rules and information which might apply to specifically to you.

After approval you may pick up your passport with visa from the Consulate in person or someone can do it on your behalf  or it can be sent to you back by registered mail.

    Due to security reasons and in order to avoid delivery lost or delay

 it can be done by FedEx service ONLY

using your FedEx account number ONLY

(NO DEBIT or CREDIT CARD ACCOUNTS)

Please, don’t forget to enclose completely filled prepaid FedEx envelope or prepaid FedEx US Airbill with your FedEx account number. For international delivery (US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico etc.) please, enclose completely filled prepaid International Air Waybill with your FedEx account number. If you want Consulate to send your documents back by mail and you fail to follow the above-mentioned requirements your visa application will not be processed until we receive from you prepaid FedEx envelope\ Air Waybill with your FedEx account number.

Any other ways of mail delivery from the Consulate are not accepted any more.

 

The Consulate may request additional documentation. Visa processing starts only after we have collected all necessary documents. All paperwork once submitted is not subject to any change of the announced visa processing period or the period of stay in Russia indicated in valid invitation available at the moment of submission. If applicant needs to make changes in submitted paperwork before visa is processed, all documentation will be returned to applicant for resubmission. Visa-processing fee paid is not refundable. In case applicant requests correction in visa due to any reason other than computer misprint, applicant will have to reapply for a new visa. It is not possible to expedite visa processing after your documents have been accepted by the Consulate. The Consulate will not bear any responsibility for the errors in visas, which were not brought to our attention before departure from the USA and beforehand, within time allowing to review such visa. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

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Work Visa

Work visa can be valid for single entry only.

Documents required:

1. Original letter of Invitation from the Russian Federal Migration Service. (sample)

2. Passport (original). Passport must contain at least two blank pages marked "visas", otherwise the passport and documents will not be accepted and will be returned. Passport must be valid no less than six months after visa expiration date.        Applicant's passport will be in the Consulate's possession within the whole period of visa processing.

3.   Copy of the passport's vital pages (with personal data and photo).

4. Standard Application form (must be filled out completely with all information requested, must have original signature and dated), with one passport-size b\w or color photo glued or stapled at the place for photo on the application form. To download application form for US citizens click: Visa Application Form for US citizens . To download application form for non US citizens or individuals with no citizenship click: .

5. Original HIV blood test (AIDS) Certificate. This certificate is valid for 3 month only (HIV blood test should be taken not earlier than 3 months before applying for a visa).

6. Cover letter specifying purpose of visit, dates of arrival and departure, cities to be visited in Russia and telephone or facsimile number where you can be reached.

7. For the former Soviet citizens only: При подаче документов на визу необходимо предоставить один из документов, подтверждающий отсутствие у заявителя на настоящий момент российского гражданства (копия выездной визы СССР, копия заграничного паспорта СССР или паспорта государства СНГ, с которым вы выезжали, копия свидетельства о натурализации США до 1997 года, иной документ). В соответствии с действующим российским законодательством российские визы гражданам России в том числе, имеющим просроченные российские загранпаспорта, не оформляются.

8. For Non US Passport holders only: You may apply for Russian visa in the Consulate only if you have US Green Card or long term non-immigration legal status in US valid not less than 6 months from the date of your Russian visa application. Please enclose the copy of this document or show it in your passport.

Applications from the holders of US tourist visas or short term visitors are NOT acceptable. You have to apply in the country of your residence only.

9. Visa fee and processing time information can be found here - Fees & Time schedules .

Method of payment. Visa processing fee is payable to the Russian Consulate General in San Francisco by money order or cashier's check only. Cash, company check or personal checks are NOT acceptable.

All documents should be submitted not less than 6 business days prior to the entry to the Russian Federation.

After approval you may pick up your passport with visa from the Consulate in person or someone can do it on your behalf  or it can be sent to you back by registered mail.

    Due to security reasons and in order to avoid delivery lost or delay

 it can be done by FedEx service ONLY

 using your FedEx account number ONLY

(NO DEBIT or CREDIT CARD ACCOUNTS)

Please, don’t forget to enclose completely filled prepaid FedEx envelope or prepaid FedEx US Airbill with your FedEx account number. For international delivery (US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico etc.) please, enclose completely filled prepaid International Air Waybill with your FedEx account number. If you want Consulate to send your documents back by mail and you fail to follow the above-mentioned requirements your visa application will not be processed until we receive from you prepaid FedEx envelope\ Air Waybill with your FedEx account number.

Any other ways of mail delivery from the Consulate are not accepted any more.

 

The Consulate may request additional documentation. Visa processing starts only after we have collected all necessary documents. All paperwork once submitted is not subject to any change of the announced visa processing period or the period of stay in Russia indicated in valid invitation available at the moment of submission. If applicant needs to make changes in submitted paperwork before visa is processed, all documentation will be returned to applicant for resubmission. Visa-processing fee paid is not refundable. In case applicant requests correction in visa due to any reason other than computer misprint, applicant will have to reapply for a new visa. It is not possible to expedite visa processing after your documents have been accepted by the Consulate. The Consulate will not bear any responsibility for the errors in visas, which were not brought to our attention before departure from the USA and beforehand, within time allowing to review such visa. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

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Transit visa

If you travel by airplane transit visa permits you to travel through the Russian territory without staying (depending on your tickets information). This type of visa can be valid for up to 72 hours only.

If you using other means of transportation (railway train, car, bus, ferry, etc.) or you apply for double transit visa (to the country of your final destination and back) it can be valid for up to 10 days only.

 Important information for Transit passengers

If changing terminals in the Russian Airport you have to cross Russian boarder through immigration control you have to obtain Transit visa prior to your travel.

If you stay in Airport Transit zone NOT crossing Russian boarder through  immigration control Transit visa is NOT required for you.

Consulate highly recommend to contact your airline to verify it. Your airline is more familiar with particular airport terminals structure.

In all cases when airline can't verity this question Consulate recommend to obtain transit visa.

 

Documents required for Transit visa:

1. Passport (original) with valid visa of the country of your final destination. Passport must contain at least two blank pages marked "visas", otherwise the passport and documents will not be accepted and will be returned. Passport must be valid no less than six months after visa expiration date.                                                     Applicant's passport will be in the Consulate's possession within the whole period of visa processing.
2.  Original and copy of the airway, railway or other ticket with "OK" status only.
3. Copy of the passport's vital pages (with personal data and photo).
4. Standard Application form (must be filled out completely with all information requested, must have original signature and dated), with one passport-size b\w or color photo glued or stapled at the place for photo on the application form. To download application form for US citizens click: Visa Application Form for US citizens . To download application form for non US citizens or individuals with no citizenship click: .
5. Cover letter specifying purpose of visit, dates of arrival and departure, cities to be visited in Russia and telephone or facsimile number where you can be reached.
6. For the former Soviet citizens only: При подаче документов на визу необходимо предоставить один из документов, подтверждающий отсутствие у заявителя на настоящий момент российского гражданства (копия выездной визы СССР, копия заграничного паспорта СССР или паспорта государства СНГ, с которым вы выезжали, копия свидетельства о натурализации США до 1997 года, иной документ). В соответствии с действующим российским законодательством российские визы гражданам России в том числе, имеющим просроченные российские загранпаспорта, не оформляются.

   7. For Non US Passport holders only: You may apply for Russian visa in the Consulate only if you have US Green Card or long term non-immigration legal status in US valid not less than 6 months from the date of your Russian visa application. Please enclose the copy of this document or show it in your passport.

   Applications from the holders of US tourist visas or short term visitors are NOT acceptable. You have to apply in the country of your residence only.

   8. Visa fee and processing time information can be found here - Fees & Time schedules .

Method of payment. Visa processing fee is payable to the Russian Consulate General in San Francisco by money order or cashier's check only. Cash, company check or personal checks are NOT acceptable.

Please read important Additional rules and information which might apply to specifically to you.

After approval you may pick up your passport with visa from the Consulate in person or someone can do it on your behalf  or it can be sent to you back by registered mail.

    Due to security reasons and in order to avoid delivery lost or delay

 it can be done by FedEx service ONLY

using your FedEx account number ONLY

(NO DEBIT or CREDIT CARD ACCOUNTS)

Please, don’t forget to enclose completely filled prepaid FedEx envelope or prepaid FedEx US Airbill with your FedEx account number. For international delivery (US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico etc.) please, enclose completely filled prepaid International Air Waybill with your FedEx account number. If you want Consulate to send your documents back by mail and you fail to follow the above-mentioned requirements your visa application will not be processed until we receive from you prepaid FedEx envelope\ Air Waybill with your FedEx account number.

Any other ways of mail delivery from the Consulate are not accepted any more.

 

The Consulate may request additional documentation. Visa processing starts only after we have collected all necessary documents. All paperwork once submitted is not subject to any change of the announced visa processing period or the period of stay in Russia indicated in valid invitation available at the moment of submission. If applicant needs to make changes in submitted paperwork before visa is processed, all documentation will be returned to applicant for resubmission. Visa-processing fee paid is not refundable. In case applicant requests correction in visa due to any reason other than computer misprint, applicant will have to reapply for a new visa. It is not possible to expedite visa processing after your documents have been accepted by the Consulate. The Consulate will not bear any responsibility for the errors in visas, which were not brought to our attention before departure from the USA and beforehand, within time allowing to review such visa. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

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