Every British passport holder needs a visa to enter Russia, and the application is unusually document-heavy: almost every category requires a formal invitation before you can apply.
We prepare the application, check the invitation and supporting papers against consular requirements, and submit on your behalf — which is where most refusals and delays are avoided.
Who needs this
Eligibility overview
British citizens and most other nationalities resident in the UK need a visa for any purpose of travel to Russia, including short tourist visits. The category depends on your reason for travel: tourist, business, private (family visit), study or work.
Documents required
What you'll need
- Passport with at least 6 months’ validity and two blank facing pages
- Digital photo with a white background
- Invitation or confirmation appropriate to your visa type (tourist confirmation, business invitation, or private invitation)
- Completed application form matching your passport exactly
- Confirmed travel itinerary or flight details
- Proof of medical insurance valid in Russia
- Any additional document required by the authorities
Processing time
How long does it take?
Standard consular processing is typically 4–20 working days depending on the visa type and current consular workload. Timelines can move at short notice — apply well ahead of travel.
Common mistakes
Why applications are refused
- Invitation documents that do not match the visa category applied for
- Application form details that differ from the passport
- Missing or invalid medical insurance
- Itinerary or dates inconsistent with the invitation
Common questions
FAQs
For almost every category, yes. Tourist visas need a tourist confirmation, business visas need a formal invitation, and private visits need an invitation from your host. We advise on the right document for your trip.