Yes, a visa is required to travel from United Kingdom to Russia.

Do I need a visa for Russia from United Kingdom?
Discover visa requirements for your trip
British citizens need a visa to visit Russia. A unified e-Visa is applied for online before departure through the official Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal.
A United Kingdom national wishing to enter Russia must obtain a visa beforehand; there is no visa-free entry. The electronic route runs through the official e-Visa portal, where the application is completed and paid for online. Given the current context, also review the UK FCDO travel advice before planning any trip.
Do you need a visa?
Yes. British passport holders have no visa-exemption for Russia and must obtain a visa before arrival. The passport should remain valid for at least six months. Check eligibility for the unified e-Visa according to the purpose of the stay.
How and where to apply
The unified e-Visa is requested on the official portal evisa.kdmid.ru: account creation, online form, photo and payment. For categories not covered by the e-Visa, the application goes through the Russian consulate or its authorised visa-processing centre in the UK.
Documents and fees
Prepare a passport valid for six months, a compliant photo and, depending on the purpose, proof of accommodation or an invitation. The exact consular fee is not confirmed here: check the official amount shown on the portal at the time you apply.
Processing and tips
Processing time varies; apply well in advance and do not buy non-refundable tickets before the visa is granted. Given the situation, read the FCDO travel advice carefully before you travel.
Common mistakes
Common errors: applying for the wrong visa type, a non-compliant photo, or stay dates that do not match the itinerary. Always verify current requirements on the official portal and with the consulate before booking.
Official sources
- Russia unified e-Visa portal (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
- Consular Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- UK FCDO – foreign travel advice for Russia
Information verified on July 8, 2026.
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to Russia from United Kingdom?▾
Yes, a consular visa is required: applications are made at the embassy or consulate before departure (allowed stay: 90 days).
How long can you stay in Russia?▾
The tourist visa allows a stay of 90 days.
What other visa types exist for Russia?▾
Depending on the purpose of stay, Russia offers among others: Business visa, Work visa, Highly Qualified Specialist visa, Student visa, Private/family visit visa, Transit visa.
Data verified on 23/07/2026
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