Invitation to Russian foreign ministry visa is required for all common types of visa but the transit one. Below we list types of invitations required for obtaining the most common Russian visas.
A Russian travel agency properly registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and possessing a valid “tour reference” number. Make sure you are dealing with a reliable travel agency which can provide you with registration and provide other support services when you arrive to Russia. Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia for paper invitations or Department of Consular Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for telexes. Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia – PVU, OVIR, etc. Present your travel tickets and visa to the country of destination. Please take a note that a letter from your friends or business partners cannot be regarded as official support documentation valid for obtaining a visa to Russia.
As with all other visa related documents, it is important to avoid confusions and contradictions with other documentation. One of the most common reasons for rejecting an application is nonconformity to the purpose of visit to Russia of the documents supplied. Please make sure to mention correct data for your sponsoring organization and the purpose of visit which exactly corresponds to your invitation! The latest consulate application form is available on the Russian Consulate website in that country where you plan to apply for your visa.
Please fill it in, print it out, sign it and send it with other required paperwork. Contact details of the Russian Consulates are here. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay! The usual size required is 3 x 4 cm or 1,5 x 2 inches.
For some types of visas and for citizens of certain countries additional documents can be required. Consular fees vary greatly from one Consulate to another. Consulate to find out the exact amount and available methods of payment. Note: Sometimes it can be very difficult to contact the Consulate itself due to its short business hours. We recommend contacting an authorized Russian travel agent in your country who can always provide up-to-date information or help with obtaining the visa itself. We guarantee that the agents listed have proved to be the best in their field thanks to their expertise and experience. Departure card which is preseted to passport control authorities once you cross the Russian border.
