Plan your trip to Russia
Start with your stage of travel or choose a detailed guide. Rules can change, so each guide shows what to verify and where to check it.
Entry rules and your home government's travel advice are different things. Review both, then verify routes, insurance and payment options close to departure.
Choose your travel stage
Before travel
Visas, eVisas, passport checks, insurance and payment planning before you book.
- Visa and eVisa
- Passport requirements
- Travel insurance
Arrival
Border control, approved checkpoints, migration cards and your first registration steps.
- Border control
- Migration card
- Airport procedures
During travel
Registration, payments, connectivity, transport, hotels and getting medical help.
- Registration
- SIM and eSIM
- Cards and cash
Departure
Visa validity, overstay prevention, exit documents and last-day checks.
- Visa expiration
- Overstay prevention
- Exit requirements
All travel guides
Can Americans Travel to Russia?
Yes, U.S. citizens are legally permitted to enter Russia if they hold a valid visa and passport. However, the U.S. Department of State maintains a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory, and travelers must prepare for significant logistical challenges, such as U.S.-issued cards not working.
Read guideCan Australians Travel to Russia?
Yes, it is legally possible for Australian citizens to travel to Russia if they obtain a valid visa before departure. However, the Australian government currently advises its citizens not to travel to Russia due to the security environment and other risks.
Read guideEntering Russia with an eVisa
Entering Russia with an eVisa requires arriving at an approved border crossing point with a printed or mobile notification, a valid passport, and valid medical insurance. The eVisa is valid for 120 days from issue, permitting a single entry and a stay of up to 30 days.
Read guideIs Russia Open for Tourists?
Yes, Russia is legally open to foreign tourists who meet entry requirements, hold valid passports, and obtain the appropriate visa. However, travelers must navigate complex logistics, including limited payment options, and should carefully review their home country's travel advisories before planning a trip.
Read guideRegistering a Foreign Tourist in Russia
Foreign tourists must be registered with the authorities upon arrival at their accommodation in Russia. Hotels normally handle this within one working day, while private hosts generally have seven working days to register their guests, though travelers should confirm current deadlines with their host.
Read guideRussian Migration Card
Foreign visitors to Russia must complete and retain a free migration card upon entry. This document is required for your stay, accommodation registration, and must be returned to border control upon departure.
Read guideTravel Insurance for Russia
Valid medical insurance for Russia is required for most travelers throughout their stay, including eVisa applicants. Policies must cover medical care, emergency evacuation, and repatriation, and travelers should verify coverage limits given current security advisories.
Read guideTravel to Russia in 2026
Traveling to Russia in 2026 requires careful preparation, including securing the correct visa, planning alternative payment methods, and arranging mandatory medical insurance. Eligibility to enter Russia depends on your nationality, and all travelers should review their home government's travel advisories before planning a trip.
Read guideWhat Cards Work in Russia?
Foreign-issued Visa and Mastercard do not work in Russia, as confirmed by card networks and government travel advisories. Travelers must rely on cash or explore specific Russian-issued tourist cards, which may be available through participating partners.
Read guide