Entry rules for foreign citizens to the Russian Federation

Important information about entry rules to the Russian Federation (visas, migration cards)

Before traveling to the Russian Federation, foreign citizens must submit an entry application.

You can apply in two ways:

through the official mobile application ruID
or via the federal state information system “Gosuslugi” (Public Services Portal)

About the ruID application

The mobile application ruID (ruID app) is an official app designed for foreign citizens and stateless persons who plan to enter or are already in Russia.

It allows you to:

submit an entry application
check entry restrictions
access Russian government services in a convenient and secure way

How to apply via ruID app

Step 1. Download and install the ruID app

https://www.rustore.ru/catalog/app/ru.gosuslugi.migrant

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ru.gosuslugi.migrant

https://apps.apple.com/ru/app/ruid/id6745255593

https://appgallery.huawei.com/#/app/C114324115

Step 2. Log in using your Gosuslugi account

If you don’t have one — register and enter the details of the document you will use to cross the border of the Russian Federation.

Step 3. Submit your travel application in the ruID app

IMPORTANT The application must be submitted:

no earlier than 90 days before entry
no later than 72 hours before entry

Step 4. Fill in travel details

purpose of visit
planned duration of stay
regions you plan to visit
information about children traveling with you. If both parents are travelling, each of them must include children in their applications.

Step 5. Submit biometric data in the ruID app

take a photo of yourself
upload a photo of your ID document
record your voice

IMPORTANT

Without biometric registration, you cannot complete the application.

For each new trip, a new facial photo is required, even if biometrics already exist.

Step 6. Wait for verification

You will receive a notification in your personal account in the ruID app.

Applying via Gosuslugi

If you already have valid biometric data registered in Russia, you can apply through Gosuslugi.

The applicant should take the following steps to do so:

Log in or register on Gosuslugi
Open the service and fill in travel details (same as in the ruID app)
Take a photo to confirm your identity
Submit the application
Wait for verification (notification will appear in your account)

Additional information

Gosuslugi web page

Video instruction