Russia has introduced a major update to its electronic visa (e-Visa) system, giving visitors more time to plan and enjoy their trips. A presidential decree signed on 23 July 2025 now extends the validity and maximum stay of the e-Visa.

The change, described as a carefully planned reform, comes as Russia continues to balance its openness to international visitors with a firm stance on border control.

What Has Changed

The new rules bring two main adjustments:

1. Validity: e-Visas will now be valid for 120 days from the date of issue.
2. Length of stay: travellers may remain in Russia for up to 30 consecutive days.

Other conditions remain unchanged. The e-Visa is still limited to a single entry, and citizens of 58 eligible countries can apply online. Applications submitted before 23 August 2025 will still be issued under the old rules of 60-day validity and 16-day stays.

According to official figures, more than 1.2 million visitors have already used the system since its wide launch in 2023. Travellers from China, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Turkey, India, and Estonia are among the most frequent users.

Why This Matters for Travellers

The e-Visa was introduced in August 2023 to simplify entry procedures and reduce reliance on traditional visa applications. While successful, the 16-day limit proved too restrictive for many.

With a 30-day allowance, travellers can now combine business obligations with personal exploration or take extended holidays across multiple regions.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has explained that the reform is intended to encourage visits for tourism, business, cultural exchanges, and humanitarian purposes, while maintaining strict security standards.

Future Possibility of Multiple Entry

Although the decree confirms only longer stays and validity, the government is already considering further reforms. On 11 June 2025, Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov stated that the demand for a multiple entry e-Visa is strong, and discussions with border authorities are underway.

If introduced, this option would reduce the need for frequent reapplications and greatly benefit regular travellers and families with ties in Russia. For now, travellers must apply for a new visa each time they leave and return.

Border Procedures Remain the Same

While the visa rules are more flexible, border entry requirements remain strict. Travellers may only enter through one of 105 designated checkpoints, including international airports in Moscow and Saint Petersburg, railway stations, seaports, and approved land crossings.

In rare cases, permission to cross outside these official points may be granted by the Federal Security Service (FSB). For most visitors, however, arrivals and departures must take place through the established checkpoints.

How to Apply for the e-Visa

The application is carried out entirely online and is designed to be simple. Apply through the Russia eVisa Portal and pay the eVisa fee of about 50 USD (children under six are exempt), and receive your e-Visa by email

Categories of e-Visas

1. Tourist e-Visa for children under 6
2. Tourist e-Visa
3. Business e-Visa

Each type now benefits from the longer validity and stay period.

Content Disclaimer: Visa rules may change; confirm current requirements on the official Russian e-Visa portal before travel.