Legal Grounds for Entry with a Ticket

As of January 11, 2025, the Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of the Republic of Belarus on mutual visa recognition has come into force, opening new opportunities for foreign nationals. According to Article 2 of this agreement, foreign nationals and stateless persons who have a document for attending an international event and a valid identity document are granted the right to enter, exit, stay, and transit through the territory of the other state party during the validity period of these documents.

In Simple Terms

The Register of Controlled Persons is a special list. It includes foreign nationals and stateless persons who have violated Russian laws. For example, if a person worked without a permit or broke the entry rules, they can be added to this register.

Why This Register Exists

Here’s why it’s needed:

A Russian visa is an official document that grants foreign citizens and stateless persons the right to enter, stay, and leave the territory of the Russian Federation for a specified period. The visa acts as both entry and exit permission and contains details about the dates of stay, type and multiplicity, passport information, and the inviting organization.

Simply put, a visa is a special permit you need to obtain from a consulate or embassy to enter another country. But not all foreigners need a visa to visit Russia. Many can enter with just their foreign passport!

Starting June 30, 2025, new rules for foreign citizens came into force in the Russian Federation. Now, many foreign nationals are required to pre-register their trip using a special app. Let’s break down who is required to complete this procedure and who is not.

Changes Effective June 30, 2025

• Foreigners from visa-free countries must notify about their trip in advance via the “Gosuslugi RuID” app.
• After registration, you will receive a QR code that must be shown at the border.
• Registration is required at least 72 hours before entering Russia.
• In emergencies (illness, death of a relative), an application can be submitted 4 hours before arrival.

Since December 1, 2024, Russia has launched a large-scale experiment on collecting biometric data from foreign citizens when crossing the state border. The new system, which will be in effect until June 30, 2026, radically changes the entry procedure for millions of foreign guests. Considering international experience and growing security needs, experts note a high probability that after the test period, biometric data collection will become permanent, as it already has in most developed countries.

Russia and Border Control

The Russian Federation traditionally welcomes millions of foreign visitors every year — tourists, business travelers, students, workers, and people visiting family. The country is interested in international cooperation and developing economic ties with other states.

However, entry into any country is a privilege, not a right for foreign citizens. Russia, like any sovereign state, has the authority to control who can cross its borders. This is necessary to ensure national security, maintain public order, and protect the interests of its own citizens.

Alexey from Uzbekistan flew to Moscow to visit his sister. At the border, he was held for eight hours and then sent back. The reason? Three years ago, he overstayed his visit by five days. Alexey didn’t even know about the ban.

There are thousands of such stories. People buy tickets, plan trips, and only at the border do they learn — entry is prohibited. Sometimes for years.

Planning to work in Russia? Then you need a work visa! This is a special document that allows foreign citizens to legally work in the country. Below is a detailed and easy-to-understand guide.

What is a Work Visa and Why is it Needed?

A work visa is an official permit for employment in Russia. Without it, a foreigner cannot legally work or receive a salary. It is mandatory for anyone planning to work for a Russian company.