Visa-Free Travel from India to Russia: What to Expect by 2025

Indian tourists may soon enjoy visa-free travel to Russia, with the program expected to launch as early as Spring 2025. This initiative is part of Russia’s strategy to attract more Indian visitors and strengthen bilateral tourism ties.

The visa-free arrangement will apply to group tourists, enabling hassle-free travel without the need for individual visas. Discussions between India and Russia have been ongoing, with officials optimistic about finalizing the program soon.

Evgeny Kozlov, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, expressed optimism, stating, “It is predicted that thanks to the agreement, which is now under development, the number of travellers from India coming to the Russian capital will increase”.

Rising Indian Tourism in Russia

Moscow has already witnessed a consistent rise in Indian tourist numbers:

• 28,500 Indian tourists visited Moscow in the first half of 2024, marking a 1.5x increase compared to the same period in 2023.
• In 2023, over 60,000 Indian travellers visited Moscow, showing a 26% rise from 2022 figures.
• India now ranks third among non-CIS countries for business tourism in Russia during Q1 2024.

E-Visa Boost for Indian Travellers

Since August 2023, Indian tourists have been eligible to apply for Russia’s e-visa, which allows short stays of up to 16 days and is processed within four days.

• In 2023, Indian travellers ranked among the top five nationalities using Russia’s e-visa service.
• 9,500 e-visas were issued to Indian passport holders in 2023, accounting for 6% of the total e-visas issued globally.
• In January 2024 alone, 1,700 e-visas were granted to Indian travellers.

The e-visa option remains a popular choice for those looking for short-term, quick travel solutions to Russia.

Russia’s Successful Visa-Free Initiatives

Russia launched visa-free group travel programs for citizens of China and Iran on August 1, 2023. These programs have proven successful and will serve as a model for the upcoming India-Russia agreement.

What Does Visa-Free Travel Mean for Indians?

Once implemented, the visa-free group travel program will eliminate the need for a tourist visa, simplifying entry procedures for Indian tourists visiting Russia. Visa-free access saves time, reduces costs, and encourages group travel.

Currently, Indian passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 62 countries worldwide. Russia’s inclusion on this list would further enhance travel opportunities for Indian citizens.

Visa Types for Indian Citizens Traveling to Russia

Indian travelers can apply for the following types of Russian visas:

• Tourist Visa: Suitable for sightseeing and leisure trips.
• Business Visa: For business-related events and meetings.
• Private Visa: To visit friends or family residing in Russia.
• Work Visa: For employment opportunities in Russia.
• Student Visa: For enrolling in Russian academic institutions.
• E-Visa: For short-term visits to specific regions.

Russian Visa Processing Time and Fee Structure

Note: E-visas are typically processed within 4 days and allow short stays of up to 16 days.