Frequently Asked Questions

Visas

1. Do I need a visa to Russia?

Most nationals need a visa to travel to Russia. Please check if you need a visa at this link.

2. How long does it take to obtain a Russian visa?

There are two types of services available at the moment: express and standard. Express service takes 2 working days, standard service takes 6 working days. Same day service is not available anymore.

3. What documents do I need to apply for a Russian visa?

The list of the required documents depends on nationality of the applicant and type of visa. If you’re a British national applying for a tourist visa the following documents should be submitted: original passport (valid for 6 months upon date of exit with 2 clear pages), 1 photo, electronic visa application form printed and signed, a booking form from the Russian National Tourist Office. For other nationalities please call us. Russian visa is valid in the current passport.

4. What does single/double entry visa mean?

Single entry visa allows you to enter Russia once, while double entry allows you to enter Russia twice within the period of validity of your Russian visa

5. How do I pay for my visa application to be processed through RNTO?

You can pay by debit or credit card (we accept all credit cards, however on AMEX we add 3% surcharge), cash, cheques (for standard service only), or bank transfer.

6. Can I change the dates of my Russian visa if it has been issued already?

Unfortunately you cannot change the dates if the visa has already been issued. In this case you need to reapply submitting all the required documents for the visa and paying the visa fee again.

7. Can I submit a handwritten application form if I’m having problems with filling it in online?

All application forms are filled in online, printed off and signed by the applicant. However, if you’re having problems with the online application form we can accept a handwritten form from you and type it in online on your behalf for a £10 charge.

8. Where do I collect my Russian visa?

You collect your visa at the same place where you submit your application. Please check the correct branch at this link.

9. I have dual nationality, one of which is Russian. Can I apply for a Russian visa with my second passport?

According to the Russian legislation, Russian nationals need to have a valid Russian passport to travel to Russia. Please click here for further information.

General questions about travelling to Russia:

1. Which is the best currency to take to Russia?

All the prices in Russia are given in roubles and it is prohibited by the law for any outfit to accept any other currency except the national one. It would be worth to exchange your cash into roubles upon you arrival in to Russia. British pound is very hard to exchange- only in Moscow, St.Petersburg and some other host cities, and the rate may be not good, so better bring USD or Euro. It’s also not recommended to bring traveller’s cheques to Russia. Try not to run out of cash, although major credit and debit cards are accepted in Russia.

2. Where is the best place to exchange money?

Changing money is rarely a problem while in Russia. Almost every place, even a smallest town, has a bank or a currency exchange office. It is not always the case in the tiniest remote Siberia or mountain villages, but, generally, if the town is greater than 1000 inhabitants, a legal money exchange will not pose a problem.

4. What is the weather like in Russia?

The best time to visit Russia is May through September. Temperatures range from the 21C-32C in the day to the 10C-21C at night. Be aware that the spring and fall are unpredictable with flurries showing up in May and September, and mud ensuing. Take along with you waterproof shoes and a jacket. 

5. Which means of transport is better to use in Moscow, St Petersburg?

Moscow and St.Petersburg metro is a great alternative to use local taxi services. You'll travel fast, cheap and easy, skip most of the traffic, and save lots of time. Transport may not be very comfortable but nothing beats it as the traffic gets worse by the year. Plus, taxis cost a lot these days.

6. Can I purchase train, theatre, museum tickets in RNTO office?

You can order train, theatre, museum tickets and excursions in our RNTO office. You can simply drop us an email with your travel request or contact us via telephone. We will try our best to find you best available offers.

7. Who is better to ask if I get lost in Russia? Do people speak English?

If you haven't learned to speak Russian yet and find yourself in a difficult situation, you may ask hotel receptionists, guides, translators or any English-speaking people to help you get around and find your way back to hotel or railroad station.

In big cities of Russia you may buy a map or travel-guide in English with sightseeing places on them. Russian transcription is often found in most subways. If you get lost, you may turn to any policeman or passer-by. More and more people speak English in Russia with each year.

8. Are the tourist places closed in public holidays in Russia?

Holidays in Russia includes a total of nine official holidays. All countries have their set of holidays but the special thing about Holidays in Russia is that they continue for longer duration.

Another unique feature of the holidays in the country of Russia is that all the markets and public places remain open and people are seen thronging in the streets. The entertainment centres and the recreational activities can be enjoyed till late evening; making its a fun filled holiday for the Russians.

9. Do I need to carry original passport with me anytime during my vacation trip to Russia?

Police have the authority to stop people and request their documents at any time without cause. Due to the possibility of random document checks by police, foreign citizens should carry their original passports, registered migration cards, and visas with them at all times. Failure to provide proper documentation can result in detention and/or heavy fines. It is not necessary for travellers to have either entry or itinerary points in the Russian Federation printed on their visas.

Air-tikets

1. Do I need to reconfirm my flight before departure?

2. Can I pay for an air ticket through RNTO website?

You can only reserve flights via RNTO website. When the flight is reserved you should    receive confirmation via email. Please check the entire itinerary and contact us for the payment which can be processed via telephone within our opening hours.

3. How many airlines/flights operate daily to Moscow/ St.Petersburg?

4. How much is a return ticket to Moscow/ St. Petersburg?

A return ticket to Moscow/St.Petersburg is approximately £220.00 depending on the season, day and flight availability.