Russia Expands e-Visa Access: Now Available at 105 Checkpoints

Russia has expanded its electronic visa (e-Visa) program, allowing international travellers to enter through an increased number of checkpoints. With the latest edition of the Tashanta checkpoint in the Altai Republic, the total number of entry points for e-Visa holders has now reached 105, enhancing accessibility for tourists and business travellers alike.

Tashanta Checkpoint Added to e-Visa Entry Points

Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin recently signed a directive expanding the list of border checkpoints where travellers can use Russia’s unified e-Visa. Ministerial Order No. 285-r, issued on February 11, 2025, officially includes the Tashanta checkpoint, a road border crossing between Russia and Mongolia.

Tashanta, a small village in the Altai Republic, plays a crucial role in cross-border trade and tourism, making it a strategic addition to the e-Visa entry system.

Russia’s e-Visa Program: Key Details

Russia launched its electronic visa system in mid-2023, simplifying the process for visitors seeking entry for tourism, business, humanitarian, or private travel. Travellers from 64 eligible countries can apply for an e-visa online without requiring an invitation or hotel reservation.

• Application portal: evisa.kdmid.ru
• Processing time: 4 days
• Validity: Up to 16 days
• Fee: €50 (US$53); free for children under 6 years old

Russian authorities emphasize that expanding the e-visa system will boost tourism, increase regional investment, and contribute to economic growth.

Countries Eligible for Russia’s e-Visa

As of December 2024, citizens of 64 countries can apply for a Russian e-Visa. The list includes major travel markets such as:

• Europe: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK
• Asia: China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam
• Middle East: Bahrain, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE
• Other regions: Australia, Mexico, Turkey, Zimbabwe

This broad eligibility makes Russia a more accessible destination for travellers worldwide.

Russia’s e-Visa Entry Points

Airports, Seaports, and Land Borders: With the latest expansion, 105 checkpoints now accept e-Visas, including international airports, seaports, railway stations, and road border crossings.

Major Airports Accepting e-Visa

Travelers arriving by air can enter Russia using an e-Visa through major international airports, including:

• Moscow: Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo, Zhukovsky
• St. Petersburg: Pulkovo
• Others: Kazan, Vladivostok, Sochi, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Krasnodar

These hubs facilitate seamless entry for global travellers.

Seaports Accepting e-Visa

Visitors arriving by sea can enter via designated ports, such as:

• St. Petersburg: Passenger Port, Fort Konstantin
• Vladivostok: Primorye Region
• Kaliningrad, Sochi, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

Land Border Crossings

Russia’s land border crossings now allow e-Visa entry, including:

• China: Blagoveshchensk, Pogranichny, Khasan
• Mongolia: Naushki, Kiakhta, Tashanta (newly added)
• Finland: Svetogorsk, Torfyanovka, Suoperya
• Estonia: Ivangorod, Shumilkino
• Poland, Lithuania, Latvia: Multiple entry points

This extensive network makes overland travel to Russia more convenient.

How This Expansion Benefits Travellers

The addition of Tashanta and other entry points significantly enhances accessibility for international visitors. Key benefits include:

• Easier travel: More entry options via air, land, and sea
• Simplified visa process: No need for invitations or hotel bookings
• Boost to tourism and trade: Facilitates business and leisure travel

With Russia actively expanding its digital visa system, visiting the country is becoming more seamless for global travellers. The latest update reaffirms Russia’s commitment to enhancing tourism and fostering economic ties with international visitors.

Planning Your Trip to Russia?

If you’re considering a trip to Russia, check your e-visa eligibility and plan your entry through one of the 105 available checkpoints. For more information and to apply, visit evisa.kdmid.ru.