Russia begins issuing e-visas to Indians: Here's how to apply, benefits and key details

As of August 1st, Russia has commenced the issuance of electronic visas (e-visas) to Indian passport holders, providing a quicker process for obtaining travel approval for various purposes such as business trips, guest visits, and tourism. The e-visa functions similarly to a regular visa, eliminating the necessity to consult with embassies or other organisations.

The application process for the Russian E-Visa is quick and straightforward. There's no requirement to submit any invitations or confirmations. Applicants can conveniently fill out the application form on the official website, which is available 24/7, eliminating the need to visit a consular agency during specific business hours. The processing of the e-visa is completed within four calendar days, including weekdays and bank holidays, ensuring efficient and timely issuance of the visa for travelers planning to visit Russia.

Here's a comprehensive overview of the Russia e-visa program:

• The e-visa is valid for 60 days, allowing visitors to stay in Russia for a maximum of 16 days during each visit.
• The application process is designed to be faster, with a maximum processing time of four days. Additionally, applicants are required to pay a $40 consular fee.
• The e-visa is an electronic and biometric visa, granting the same rights and privileges as a regular visa.

To apply for a Russian E-Visa, follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Open the official website dedicated to the Russian e-visa program: https://electronic-visa.kdmid.ru/.
2. Scroll down the webpage and locate the "fill in an e-visa application form" option. Click on it to begin the application process.
3. Take the time to carefully read all the provided information on the official website before proceeding to fill out the unified electronic visa application form.
4. Once you have reviewed the information and accepted the terms and conditions, click on "Fill out a new application form," which will redirect you to a new page.
5. On the new page, click on "Register as a new user" to create an account. Once you have successfully registered, log in to your account and proceed with filling out the application form.
6. Complete the application form with accurate and relevant information.
7. After submitting the application form, the next step is to pay the consular fee of $40 (approximately ₹3,290).
8. Once your application is approved, you will receive a notification for the e-visa. Make sure to print out the verification mail and carry it with you on your trip to Russia.
9. Upon arrival in Russia, present the printed notification to the immigration authorities for verification and entry into the country.

Tourism sector in Russia faces drastic decline 

According to a report from the Border Guard Service of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation, tourist arrivals to Russia witnessed a drastic decline of 96.1 percent in the year 2022. In response to this decline, Russia introduced the e-visa initiative with the objectives of attracting international visitors, fostering cultural exchange, and strengthening economic ties with the participating nations. This e-visa program is particularly advantageous for Indian travelers who frequently visit Russia

During 2022, the number of foreigners visiting Russia as part of an organized tour witnessed a significant decline, plummeting by more than 90%. The country's international isolation resulting from its invasion of Ukraine deterred most travelers from visiting. Official statistics indicate an overall year-on-year drop in Russia's inbound tourist numbers of 40%, with the figure decreasing from nearly 290,000 in the previous year to 190,000 in 2022, as reported by Kommersant.

In 2019, Russia had welcomed approximately 5.1 million tourists, with 400,000 of them arriving as part of organized tours. However, the geopolitical situation in 2022 caused a sharp decrease in tourist numbers, affecting both individual travelers and those visiting Russia through organized tour groups.