Russia student visa

Unless your nationality is visa-exempt, holders of ordinary passports enter Russia on a visa issued under Russian law. Nationals of the 64 countries on the official e-visa list can replace the consular visa with the unified e-visa for private, business or tourist trips of up to 30 days; other nationals should ask the Russian mission responsible for their country of residence which rules apply to their passport.

The study visa is issued for up to one year to foreigners entering to study at an educational or scientific organisation, on an invitation that the institution requests from the migration authorities. Foreigners on a work visa may also study without changing the purpose of entry. The spouse, minor children and dependent adult children of students admitted to accredited state programmes, from vocational education to doctoral training, can receive study visas as family members.

The fee depends on your nationality, the number of entries (single, double or multiple) and the processing time you choose; urgent processing costs more than standard processing. Check the fee table published by the Russian mission where you apply and confirm it when you book.

Regular visas are applied for at the Russian embassy or consulate responsible for your country of residence. Each mission publishes on its website how to book an appointment and where to hand in the file. Complete the Foreign Ministry's electronic visa application form first, then lodge the file in person.

The data entered online must match the documents exactly. The decision to issue or refuse the visa always rests with the Russian consular post that examines it.

Within seven working days of arriving at your place of stay, the receiving party (a hotel, landlord, employer or university) must notify the migration authorities of your arrival under the Law on Migration Registration. Keep the tear-off part of the notification and your migration card, which you receive at the border, until departure. Overstaying or working outside your visa purpose can lead to fines, expulsion and an entry ban.

Under the Law on the Legal Status of Foreign Citizens, foreigners who complete accredited full-time higher education in Russia with an honours diploma can obtain a residence permit without first holding a temporary residence permit. Graduates of state institutions holding a temporary residence permit for education can also apply for a residence permit after completing their studies.