By 2025, Russia will expand the list of countries for e-visas

By the end of 2024, Russia plans to develop proposals to increase the list of countries whose citizens can obtain an e-visa and introduce a greater number of visa categories in electronic format. This follows from the Action Plan for the implementation of the Concept of State Migration Policy of the Russian Federation for 2019-2025, approved by the Government of the Russian Federation.

 "The expected result is an increase in the number of countries whose citizens can obtain a single electronic visa," says the document approved by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. By December 10, 2024, proposals should also be prepared on the countries that can apply for an electronic visa, as well as the types of visas available for obtaining electronically. In particular, student and work e-visas are being considered. There are also plans to expand the list of countries whose citizens can travel to Russia without a visa, including tourist trips.

At the moment Russia issues electronic visas to foreign citizens traveling for various purposes, including personal visits, business, tourism, as well as participation in scientific, cultural, socio-political, economic and sporting events. Regulatory documents are expected to be prepared during the year, including proposals to make it easier for foreign citizens to change the grounds for staying in Russia without leaving the country, as well as the possibility of creating a digital profile of a foreign citizen by collecting biometric data at border control points.