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Hey travel enthusiasts! Are you confused about how to obtain a Russian e-visa from the UAE? Here’s the good news! UAE citizens can enter, stay, or transit visa-free for up to 90 days (within 180 days) as per the dual visa agreement. And what’s more? There is also a hassle-free Russian e-visa scheme for eligible UAE residents. Our blog is a guide that will make traveling to Russia easy. Khoroshevo puteshestviya! Good Journey!
UAE Resident’s Guide to e-Visa Process: FAQs
What is the Russian e-Visa?
The Russian e-visa, officially called the “Unified Electronic Visa,” is a digital document and your easy gateway to a Russian holiday. It allows the traveller a maximum stay of up to 16 days. Further, the e-visa is valid for 60 days and permits a single entry into Russia. Remember that extensions of the e-visa are not possible beyond 16 days, except in cases of force majeure.
It’s important to understand that this unified e-visa is valid for entry into and exit only through the state border crossing points approved by the Government of the Russian Federation.
What is the eligibility for UAE Residents?
UAE residents can apply for a Russian e-visa if they hold a UAE residence visa and a valid passport. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay in Russia. And the UAE residence visa must have a minimum validity of at least 3 months.
Moreover, the good news is that nationals from these 64 countries, including EU member states, China, India, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Turkey, and Japan, are eligible.
So, let us take a look at the comprehensive list of countries eligible for the Russian e-visa below;
The 64 countries include: Austria, Bahrain, Barbados, Belgium, Bhutan, Bulgaria, Cambodia, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, North Korea, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Myanmar, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tonga, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Vatican City, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.
Unfortunately, citizens from the USA, Australia, the UK, and Canada need a traditional Russian visa to travel to the country.
What are the key documents for a Russian e-visa application?
- Valid Passport: The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in Russia.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph: A digital passport-style photograph meeting the specific requirements outlined by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Simply take it with the front camera of your mobile phone, with a plain wall of a light-colored background.
- UAE Residence Visa: A valid residence visa from the UAE is required, valid for at least 3 months from the issue date.
- Online Application: Unified Electronic Visa is issued based on a foreign citizen’s application filled in electronically on the specialized website of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or through a mobile application available for download on the specified website.
- Medical Insurance: Proof of medical insurance valid in Russia is required for the duration of the stay.
- Travel Dates: Specify the travel dates in the application.
- Payment: Payment of the visa fee, which is AED 150. Children under 6 years old are exempt from the visa fee.
What is the step-by-step process for an e-visa application?
- Visit the Official Website: Browse the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
- Fill Out the Application: Next, complete the application online, providing your details and travel information. The application for an e-visa can be submitted at https://electronic-visa.kdmid.ru or via the mobile app available on this website.
- Attach Documents: Upload scanned copies of your passport and any other required documents.
- Pay the Fee: Also, the cost is nominal, around AED 150, and children under 6 are free.
- Receive Your E-Visa: Your e-visa will be sent to you electronically. Simple!
While the visa application process takes 4 calendar days, the e-visa is valid for 60 days from the issue date. Furthermore, applying for the visa well in advance ensures a smoother journey through a digitised process. The one millionth e-visa was recently issued to a Chinese tourist on April 5, 2025!
What are the benefits of the Russian e-Visa?
Convenience: No more hassle about trips to the embassy and waiting in long lines for your turn.
Speed: The application process is faster, smoother, and more efficient.
Affordability: The e-visa fee is relatively low.
Freedom To Explore: Plus! You can travel freely throughout Russia, except to officially restricted areas.
Multiple Purposes: Valid for tourism, business, humanitarian, and private visits.
Minimal Documentation: No invitation letters or hotel bookings are required.
Quick Processing: Typically issued within 10 – 13 days.
Free for Children: No visa fee for children under six.
Entry Points: You can enter Russia via air, sea, or land at designated points.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your e-visa and start your adventure to Russia with Travelwings today!
Jet-set to enjoy Moscow, the capital city, which welcomed 25 million tourists last year and is targeting 52 million tourists by 2030.
