Russia Expands e-Visa Access: Now Accepted at 105 Entry Checkpoints

Russia has significantly expanded its e-Visa program, increasing the total number of entry points to 105. This initiative aims to boost tourism, trade, and foreign investment by providing seamless access to travelers from 64 eligible countries.

New Checkpoint Added for e-Visa Holders

The recent addition of the Tashanta checkpoint enhances the e-Visa entry system. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed a directive to expand the list of border checkpoints. The Tashanta checkpoint, a road border crossing between Russia and Mongolia, was officially included in Ministerial Order No. 285-r on February 11, 2025.

Tashanta, a small village in the Altai Republic, plays a vital role in cross-border trade and tourism, making it a strategic addition.

Key Details of Russia’s e-Visa Program

Russia launched its electronic visa system in mid-2023. This system simplifies the entry process for visitors seeking tourism, business, humanitarian, or private travel. Travelers from 64 eligible countries can apply for an e-Visa online without requiring an invitation or hotel reservation.

Here are the essential details:

• Application portal: evisa.kdmid.ru
• Processing time: 4 days
• Validity: Up to 16 days
• Fee: €50 (US$53); free for children under 6

Russian authorities believe that expanding the e-Visa system will significantly boost tourism and regional investment.

Eligible Countries for Russia’s e-Visa

As of December 2024, citizens from 64 countries are eligible for a Russian e-Visa. This list includes major travel markets such as:

• Europe: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK
• Asia: China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam
• Middle East: Bahrain, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE
• Others: Australia, Mexico, Turkey, Zimbabwe

This broad eligibility makes Russia increasingly accessible to travelers worldwide.

e-Visa Entry Points

With the latest expansion, e-Visas are accepted at various entry points, including airports, seaports, and land borders.

Major Airports Accepting e-Visa

Travelers arriving by air can enter Russia using an e-Visa through major international airports, including:

• Moscow: Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo, Zhukovsky
• St. Petersburg: Pulkovo
• Others: Kazan, Vladivostok, Sochi, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Krasnodar

These hubs facilitate smooth entry for global travelers.

Seaports Accepting e-Visa

Visitors arriving by sea can enter through designated ports, such as:

• St. Petersburg: Passenger Port, Fort Konstantin
• Vladivostok: Primorye Region
• Others: Kaliningrad, Sochi, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

Land Border Crossings

Russia’s land border crossings now also accept e-Visas. Key entries include:

• China: Blagoveshchensk, Pogranichny, Khasan
• Mongolia: Naushki, Kiakhta, Tashanta (newly added)
• Finland: Svetogorsk, Torfyanovka
• Estonia: Ivangorod
• Poland, Lithuania, Latvia: Multiple entry points

This extensive network makes overland travel to Russia more convenient.

Benefits of the e-Visa Expansion

The addition of Tashanta and other entry points significantly enhances accessibility for international visitors. Key benefits include:

• Easier travel: More entry options via air, land, and sea
• Simplified visa process: No need for invitations or hotel bookings
• Boost to tourism and trade: Facilitates business and leisure travel

With Russia actively expanding its e-Visa system, visiting the country is becoming more seamless for global travelers. This update reaffirms Russia’s commitment to enhancing tourism and fostering economic ties with international visitors.

Planning Your Trip to Russia?

If you’re considering a trip to Russia, check your e-Visa eligibility and plan your entry through one of the 105 available checkpoints. For more information and to apply, visit evisa.kdmid.ru.