Transit Visa to Russia — When Needed and How to Apply

A transit visa is required when passing through Russian territory en route to another country. It allows a stay of up to 10 days.

When you need a transit visa: changing flights with an overnight stay, traveling by train through Russia, driving through Russian territory.

When you DON'T need one: staying in the international transit zone of an airport for less than 24 hours (for most nationalities), direct connecting flights without leaving the terminal.

Required documents: passport, application form, photo, tickets showing your complete route, visa for your destination country (if required).

Processing time, consular fee and any expedited option depend on citizenship, visa category and filing office. Check the current official tariff and instructions of the responsible consulate or visa centre before booking or paying.

Important: you must follow your declared transit route exactly. Deviating or overstaying results in penalties and potential entry bans.