Russia prepares to reopen unified e-visas with new details revealed

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is set to submit a progress report to the president by June 1, detailing preparations for the resumption of unified electronic visas (e-visas) for citizens of 52 countries.

Zarina Doguzova, head of Rostourism, proposed this restart in 2022. The ministry has indicated that the Russian government must collaborate with other departments to reintroduce e-visas for foreign nationals not included on the list of states deemed hostile toward Russia—a group that likely includes most European nationalities.

The report is due to the president by June 1, 2023, and the unified e-visa will be valid for travel across the entire Russian territory.

Amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, sweeping international sanctions, and stricter criminal laws, travelers should exercise heightened caution when visiting Russia. The country has announced a partial military mobilization to support its invasion of Ukraine, and police occasionally conduct identity checks and electronic device inspections (phones, laptops).

Air travel restrictions between Russia and the European Union have severely limited cross-border movement into and out of the country. As a result, all of Russia is considered inadvisable for travel by Western nationals unless absolutely necessary.

Health protocols remain stringent: travelers are subject to random COVID-19 testing upon arrival, including temperature checks and visual health assessments. Additional tests may be required if symptoms are detected. Travelers are also required to complete a travel form prior to arrival, which will be distributed during flights bound for Russia.