Russia, a country that spans Eastern Europe and Northern Asia, is the largest country in the world by land area. Its chilly weather, natural landscapes, and architecture among many other attractions are often cited as reasons for immigrant influx into this country.
According to official data from the Federal Migration Service of Russia the country has experienced significant migration flows over the past decades. Meanwhile, many potential immigrants may have found the immigration process a little overwhelming. Such aspiring candidates may find this attempt that simplify the visa processes to be helpful.
Understanding Russian Immigration Laws and Regulations
A visa is essential to get entry into this country. A Russian visa is a sticker affixed to the traveler’s passport with critical details regarding the permitted visit. Unless the applicant belongs to a country with which Russia has visa-free permit agreements or is a passenger of a cruise ship such a visa is mandatory to gain access to Russia. Consult an international moving company in Russia to get better insights into the requirements that allow visa-free access.
Also note that if a person stays in Russia beyond the exit date he/she will have to acquire an exit visa to leave the country. The procedure of deposing is not the way things work here.
Types of Russian Visa: An Overview
Other than Russian diplomatic visas and Russian service visas there are a series of ordinary visas that will be of particular interest for expats. Business visas, transit visas, student visas, work visas, humanitarian visas, E visas, and exit visas are ordinary visas that an expat can apply for. Depending on the number of times an expat wants to enter this country there are three more visa varieties. It is single entry, double entry, and multiple entry visas. It is better to discuss with moving companies Russia to confirm your visa type before proceeding with the application. Because mistakes in the application form fill up can result in visa rejection.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Russia Visa
Invitation, online application, document submission, and in-person meetings are essential parts of the application process. Most relocation companies in Russia confirm these basic requisites for visa application.
Invitation:
In the case of tourist visas the travel agency or hotel where the stay is reserved can send invitations. For other purposes, the General Directorate for Migration for the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia has to be approached by the inviter to obtain an invitation.
Online Application:
Visit the official website of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and submit an online application. Take printouts.
In-Person Application:
Consult the Russian consulate or embassy in the home country and enquire about the essential documents for visa processing. International moving companies in Russia observe that these documents vary as per the country of origin and the type of visa applied for. Collect all these documents. Submit it at the Russian consulate or embassy along with the printout of the application form filled out online.
These essential steps will help to get a Russian visa unless there are no discrepancies in the application form or documents submitted. However, the procedures are continued until the applicant reaches Russia. Upon arrival, immigrants are required to fill out an immigration card and keep the applicant’s copy until the date of return. Moreover, Russian visa procedures require immigrants to register the visa within 7 days of arrival.
Thus the simplified version of the Russian visa application and its procedures has been established. Please remember that the required documents for visa processing are a requirement that depends on several factors. Either consult with the home countries’ Russian consulate or work with international moving companies in Russia to avoid any pitfalls. Helpxpat has years of experience in handling visa processing in Russia. So we can help you better as far as the simplification of Russian visa processing is concerned.