Russia to Tighten Entry Controls for Visa-Exempt Travelers
Starting June 30, 2025, Russia will require visa-exempt travelers to obtain a mandatory QR code via the RuID app before entry.
As of June 30, 2025, Russia will impose a new procedure on foreign nationals seeking visa-free entry: travelers must now complete an electronic application to obtain a mandatory QR code for border crossing. This measure is part of a broader set of restrictive policies adopted by Russian authorities following the March 2024 Crocus City Hall terror attack, linked to citizens of Tajikistan. Since then, more than ten laws have been enacted to reinforce migration control.
Electronic Travel Authorization
Applications must be submitted via the RuID mobile app, no later than 72 hours before arrival. Travelers will need to provide a photo, passport details, and details of the purpose and duration of their stay. Once approved, the generated QR code must be presented to migration authorities at land, air, or maritime crossings, and biometric data will be collected. To learn more about the process, visit the official Russian government portal.
Who Is Affected by the New Entry Rule?
This requirement does not apply to travelers entering Russia with a visa, temporary residence permit, or permanent residency status.
If your nationality qualifies for an electronic visa, apply through the official eVisa portal. Below is the list of eligible nationalities for the electronic visa:
Algeria, Andorra, Argentina, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Chile, China, Colombia, Croatia, Cyprus, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Fiji, Guyana, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, Myanmar, Nauru, Nicaragua, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vatican City, Vietnam, Yemen.
If your nationality is not listed above, you must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to obtain your QR code via the RuID app or the Gosuslugi portal if you are already registered.
The measure does not apply to citizens of Belarus, children under six years old, diplomats, or employees of international organizations.
Central Asian Travelers Most Affected
The new QR code system significantly changes the visa-free entry regime between Russia and Central Asian countries. It primarily impacts travelers from countries with which Russia has visa-exemption agreements, including Central Asian and some South American nations. This trend reflects a global shift toward stricter entry controls, with the EU’s ETIAS system set for implementation by late 2026, and the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), introduced in 2023.
