Key Takeaways
• Starting June 30, 2025, visa-free travelers must submit an electronic pre-arrival application via RuID app 72 hours before arrival.
• Approved applications generate a mandatory QR code to present at the border; biometric data is collected upon entry.
• The system aims to improve Russia’s border security after March 2024 terrorist attack and tightens migration controls.
Russia’s New Electronic Pre-Arrival Application for Visa-Free Travelers: What You Need to Know
Starting June 30, 2025, Russia 🇷🇺 will require all visa-free travelers to submit an electronic pre-arrival application before entering the country. This new rule is a major change for millions of visitors who currently enjoy visa-free access. The Russian government says the move will help improve border security and give authorities more information about who is coming into the country. Here’s a detailed look at what’s changing, why it matters, and how it will affect travelers, families, and businesses.
Who is affected?
All foreign citizens who can enter Russia 🇷🇺 without a visa will need to complete this new electronic process. This includes tourists, business visitors, and people visiting friends or family from countries with visa-free agreements. The rule does not apply to travelers who already have a Russian visa, a temporary residence permit, or permanent residency.
What is changing?
From June 30, 2025, visa-free travelers must submit an electronic pre-arrival application using the RuID mobile app. This must be done at least 72 hours before arrival. In emergencies—such as needing urgent medical care or attending a funeral—travelers can apply as little as 4 hours before entry.
Why is Russia 🇷🇺 making this change?
The government says the new system will help authorities check travelers before they arrive, making it easier to spot security risks and manage migration. This move comes after a series of new migration laws and increased security measures, especially following a terrorist attack in March 2024.
How does the new system work?
Travelers will need to:
- Download the RuID mobile app and create a personal account.
- Submit the application at least 72 hours before their planned arrival (or 4 hours in emergencies).
- Provide a photo, passport details, and information about the purpose and length of their trip.
- Wait for approval. If approved, the app will generate a QR code that must be shown at the Russian border.
- Submit biometric data (like fingerprints and a photo) upon arrival in Russia 🇷🇺.
- The entry application will be valid for 90 days from the date of submission.
If the application is rejected, the system will explain why and give information on how to reapply. Travelers can check their application status and see any entry bans or special requirements in their personal account.
The New Electronic Pre-Arrival Application: Details and Process
Key requirements for visa-free travelers:
- Application deadline: Submit at least 72 hours before arrival (except emergencies).
- Emergency cases: Apply as little as 4 hours before entry for urgent medical needs or family emergencies.
- Information needed: Photo, passport data, trip purpose, and duration.
- QR code: Generated by the app after approval; must be shown at the border.
- Biometric data: Collected at the border (fingerprints, photo).
- Validity: Application is good for 90 days from submission.
Who is exempt?
- Travelers with a valid Russian visa.
- Holders of temporary or permanent residence permits in Russia 🇷🇺.
How to apply:
The RuID mobile app will be the only way to submit the electronic pre-arrival application. The app will also let travelers track their application, see if they’ve been approved or rejected, and get information about their rights and available services in Russia 🇷🇺.
What happens if you’re rejected?
If your application is denied, you’ll see the reason in your account. You can then fix any problems and reapply. This system is meant to be transparent and give travelers a clear path to correct mistakes.
Why Is Russia 🇷🇺 Introducing This Requirement?
The new electronic pre-arrival application is part of a larger effort to tighten migration controls. Since the terrorist attack at the Crocus City concert hall in March 2024, the Russian government has passed more than a dozen new laws making it harder for foreigners to enter and stay in the country. The government says these changes are needed to protect national security and manage migration more effectively.
Recent migration policy changes include:
- More frequent police raids on places where labor migrants gather.
- A new registry of “controlled persons”—a list of foreigners believed to be living in Russia 🇷🇺 illegally.
- Ending simplified residence permits for spouses of Russian citizens.
- Russian language tests and permit checks for migrant children enrolling in school (starting April 1, 2025).
- Mandatory fingerprinting and biometric photos for foreigners living in Moscow and the Moscow region (starting September 1, 2025).
These changes show a clear trend: Russia 🇷🇺 is making it harder for foreigners to enter, live, and work in the country without close government oversight.
Who Can Enter Russia 🇷🇺 Visa-Free?
Russia 🇷🇺 has visa-free agreements with many countries, but the rules and allowed stay times vary. Here’s a breakdown:
Most favorable conditions:
Citizens of the following countries can enter and stay for long periods, sometimes indefinitely:
- Abkhazia
- Azerbaijan
- Armenia
- Belarus
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Moldova
- Tajikistan
- Uzbekistan
- Ukraine
- South Ossetia
Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) members (Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia) have the right to move freely and stay in Russia 🇷🇺 without time limits.
Short-term visa-free stays:
Many other countries have agreements for shorter visits:
- 90 days: Argentina, Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, El Salvador, Uruguay, Chile, Ecuador, UAE, South Africa
- 60 days: South Korea, Dominican Republic, Cape Verde (for ordinary passports)
- 30 days: Botswana, Serbia (biometric passports only), Thailand, Montenegro, and others
Travelers from these countries will now need to complete the electronic pre-arrival application before visiting Russia 🇷🇺.
Other Recent Changes to Russia’s Visa Policy
Russia 🇷🇺 has also made several other changes to its visa rules in recent years:
- Oman-Russia Visa Waiver: Russia 🇷🇺 and Oman plan to sign a visa waiver agreement in 2025, allowing citizens to travel between the two countries without a visa.
- E-Visa Border Checkpoints: As of February 2025, Russia 🇷🇺 expanded its e-visa entry points to 105 border checkpoints, making it easier for eligible travelers to enter using the e-visa system.
- Russia-Belarus Visa Recognition: Since 2025, Russia 🇷🇺 and Belarus recognize each other’s regular visas, so visitors can travel between both countries with a single visa.
Existing Entry Requirements That Remain in Effect
Even with the new electronic pre-arrival application, other entry rules for foreign visitors still apply:
Migration Card:
All foreign visitors receive a migration card when they arrive in Russia 🇷🇺. This card is important for several reasons:
- You must keep and carry the stamped part of the card during your stay.
- The card is needed for hotel registration and must be shown to police if asked.
- If you have a multiple-entry visa, you need a new migration card each time you enter.
- If you lose the card or don’t present it when leaving, you could face fines, delays, or even jail time.
Registration:
If you stay in Russia 🇷🇺 for more than 7 days, you must register your arrival within 72 hours (not counting weekends and holidays). Hotels usually handle this for guests, but if you’re staying with friends or in a private home, you must register with the Federal Migration Service. Breaking these rules can lead to fines, being kicked out of the country, and bans on returning for up to 5 years.
For more details on migration cards and registration, visit the official Russian government migration portal.
What About Travelers Who Need a Visa?
If you’re not from a visa-free country, you’ll need to apply for a visa before traveling to Russia 🇷🇺. There are several options:
E-Visa System:
Citizens from 64 countries—including Germany, France, Japan, and China—can apply for an e-visa online for tourism or business. The e-visa is valid for 16 days and costs about $52. You must apply between 40 and 4 days before your trip through the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-visa portal.
Regular Visas:
For longer stays, work, study, or if your country isn’t on the e-visa list, you’ll need a regular visa. Types include:
- Tourist visas: Single, double, or multiple entry (up to 6 months, or 3 years for U.S. citizens).
- Business visas: Valid up to 1 year.
- Work visas: Valid for 1 year (or 3 years for highly qualified workers).
- Student visas: Start at 3 months, renewable yearly.
Each visa type has its own application form and requirements. For example, the Russian visa application form is available on the official government website.
Practical Implications for Travelers
The new electronic pre-arrival application will change how people plan trips to Russia 🇷🇺. Here’s what travelers need to keep in mind:
1. Plan Ahead:
You must submit your application at least 72 hours before your flight. Last-minute trips will be harder to arrange unless it’s an emergency.
2. Use the RuID App:
All applications must go through the RuID mobile app. Make sure your phone is compatible and you have internet access.
3. Share Personal Data:
You’ll need to provide a photo, passport details, and information about your trip. When you arrive, you’ll also give biometric data (like fingerprints).
4. Be Ready for Rejection:
There’s a chance your application could be denied. If that happens, you’ll get a reason and can try again, but it could delay your travel.
5. Emergency Flexibility:
If you need to travel urgently for medical reasons or a family emergency, you can apply just 4 hours before arrival. Still, you must use the app and get approval before traveling.
6. Stay Informed:
Rules can change quickly. Always check the latest requirements before booking your trip.
Why This Matters: Broader Trends and Stakeholder Impact
Russia’s new electronic pre-arrival application is part of a global trend. Many countries now use electronic travel authorizations to screen visitors before they arrive. Systems like the United States 🇺🇸 ESTA and Canada 🇨🇦’s eTA work in similar ways. These systems help governments spot security risks and manage migration, but they also make travel more complicated for ordinary people.
For travelers:
The new rule means more paperwork and planning. People who are used to spontaneous trips or last-minute travel will need to adjust. There’s also a new layer of technology and data sharing, which may worry some about privacy.
For families and businesses:
Families visiting relatives in Russia 🇷🇺 and businesses sending employees will need to plan further ahead. Travel agencies and companies may need to help clients and staff with the new process.
For Russia 🇷🇺:
The government gets more control and information about who is entering the country. This could help with security and migration management, but it may also discourage some visitors.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, these changes reflect Russia’s growing focus on border control and migration management, especially after recent security incidents.
What Should Travelers Do Next?
If you plan to visit Russia 🇷🇺 after June 30, 2025, and you’re from a visa-free country, here’s what you should do:
- Download the RuID app before your trip.
- Gather your documents: Have your passport, a recent photo, and details about your trip ready.
- Apply at least 72 hours in advance (or 4 hours for emergencies).
- Check your application status in the app.
- Save your QR code and be ready to show it at the border.
- Be prepared to give biometric data when you arrive.
- Keep your migration card and register your stay if needed.
For official updates and detailed instructions, visit the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Conclusion
Russia’s new electronic pre-arrival application for visa-free travelers marks a big change in how people enter the country. While the system aims to improve security and manage migration, it also adds new steps and responsibilities for travelers. By planning ahead, using the right technology, and staying informed, visitors can make sure their trips go smoothly under the new rules. As the system is still experimental until June 30, 2026, travelers should watch for further updates and be ready for possible changes in the future.
Learn Today
RuID mobile app → Official Russian app for submitting and tracking electronic pre-arrival applications for visa-free travelers.
Electronic pre-arrival application → An online form requiring traveler data submitted before entering Russia without a visa.
Biometric data → Unique physical characteristics like fingerprints and photos collected at entry for identification.
Visa-free travelers → Foreign visitors allowed to enter Russia without a visa under specific agreements.
QR code → A digital code generated upon application approval, shown at Russian border control for entry.
This Article in a Nutshell
Russia requires visa-free visitors to submit an electronic pre-arrival application via RuID app starting June 30, 2025. This new process enhances border security by collecting traveler data and biometric information, with emergency exceptions. Travelers must plan ahead, ensuring approval before arrival to avoid travel disruptions under enhanced migration laws.
— By VisaVerge.com
