How to Get a Russian Visa

Have you been dreaming of taking a vacation in Russia? The transcontinental country dispersed across Eastern Europe and North Asia is home to spectacular attractions and diverse cultures. Grab the opportunity to explore cities like  Moscow and Kazan with this step-by-step guide on how to apply for your Russian tourist visa. We’ve included everything you need to know to ensure that you’re prepared for the Russian visa application process! All that’s left to do is pack your bags and book your ticket.

Nigerian passport holders require a tourist visa for Russia, and with this guide the process can be a relatively painless one. You will need to apply at the Russian Embassy in Abuja. Always apply for your Russian visa at least 21 days before you travel to allow for ample processing time (and to spare yourself some stress.)

Please check your eligibility before beginning the application process and submit your application well in advance of flight departure.

Please note this process applies to Nigerian passport holders.

Types of Visas
Tourist Visa – Issued for a stay of 30 days, single or double entry.
Business Visa – Can be issued for 90 days and be single or double entry or it may be issued for one year with multiple entries (total period of stay is 90 days within each period of 180 days).
Visa Processing Time
The processing time for a Russian visa can take 3 to 20 days, depending on the urgency of your application.

Visa Collection
When your Russian visa has been approved, you will need to collect it at the Russian Embassy in Abuja. You will be contacted telephonically and via email to let you know that your visa is ready for collection.


Visa Costs
Visa Category Visa Cost
Single-Entry Visa
Regular fee (4-20 working days)
Express fee (three working days) ₦24,500
₦49,000
Double-Entry Visa
Regular fee (4-20 working days)
Express fee (three working days) ₦39,200
₦78,400
Multiple-Entry Visa
Regular fee (4-20 working days)
Express fee (three working days) ₦73,400
₦147,000
Please note: Visa transfer fee from an expired passport costs  ₦9,800.

The visa fees must be paid in cash at the Consular Section of the Embassy, or in advance via a bank transfer, in the event that you requested the service in your purpose of payment.

Bank Details
Name:                                           Embassy of the Russian Federation

Embassy’s Private Mail Box:        E51002 Adenkunle Fajuyi Street, Cad Zone A00
Central Business District, Abuja

Bank Address:                              United Bank for Africa PLC Gana Street, Abuja

Account No.:                                1014969516

Please note: banks will withhold a transfer fee, which must be included in the amount of your payment.

Russian Visa Requirements
Passport – must be valid for at least six months after the Russian visa’s expiry date and must have at least two blank pages.
Visa Application Form – filled in and printed out from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation website (electronic visa application form). This is the only existing official form of application, and no other forms of application will be accepted. Sign the application form and fill in the date of application.
One recent colour photo with the following specifications: 35x45mm, no older than six months, taken against a white or off-white background, non-smiling face (without sunglasses and headwear unless the headdress is worn for religious or ethnic purposes).
The photograph must be placed on the Visa Application Form.
Tourist Voucher or Tourist Confirmation letter – can be obtained from an inviting organisation registered with the Russian Ministry of Affairs. A travel agency in Russia can issue a tourist voucher. The confirmation must contain the agency’s reference and registration number.
Copy of your confirmed flight tickets.
Minors require their original birth certificate and a copy of both parent’s passport.

Where to Apply
Russian visa applications must be done in person at the Russian Embassy in Abuja.

Address: Russian Embassy in Abuja
Plot 1119, Constitution Avenue, Central Business District, Abuja
Contact: 0812 139 37 21
rusconsulabuja@mid.ru
Business Hours:
Applications
Collection of Documents Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 09:00-12:00
Monday-Friday: 12:00-13:00
Where to Print Documents and Take Photos
Mobi Cyber Café
Address: Suite 014, Lozumba Commercial Complex, Area 10, Garki, Garki, Abuja, FCT
Contact: 0803 547 8307
Business Hours: Monday-Sunday: 08:00-18:00
Now that you’re equipped with all the necessary information needed to acquire a Russian visa, you’re one step closer to seeing incredible attractions such as the Moscow Kremlin, Red Square and the State Hermitage Museum. From Moscow to St. Petersburg, you are in for a one-of-a-kind trip with everlasting memories. Sign up to our newsletter for the latest  flight deals to Russia and other interesting destinations.

Have you had the pleasure of visiting Russia recently? Let us know in the comments below.