Russian e-visas 2025: validity extended to 120 days

On July 23, 2025, Federal Law No. 257-FZ was signed, amending the procedure for entry into the Russian Federation. Three sets of changes were introduced:

• e-visas: the validity and stay periods have been extended (as of 23.08.2025);
• Documents for minors - a foreign passport becomes mandatory until the age of 14 (from 20.01.2026), with reservations for the transition period;
• Border crossings outside checkpoints will be permitted with the authorization of border authorities (from July 23, 2025).

Electronic visas: new periods of validity and stay

As of August 23, 2025:

• the validity period (entry possibility) of the e-visa has been increased to 120 days;
• The maximum period of stay with an electronic visa is up to 30 calendar days (previously - 16).

It will be easier for foreign citizens to plan three- to four-week business and tourist trips without having to apply for more complex visas. However, it is important to comply with the stay regulations: exceeding the 30-day limit carries administrative responsibilities and the risk of unintended stay, deportation, and entry ban.

The documents required to apply for an e-visa are usually the following:

• a valid international passport,
• electronic questionnaire and photography.

Applications are submitted through the official website of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We recommend allowing time for processing and reviewing the current requirements for your purpose of visit, as well as the list of countries whose citizens are eligible for an e-visa.

Minors: entry documents and transitional provisions

Starting January 20, 2026, children under 14 will only be allowed to enter and leave Russia with a foreign passport. A birth certificate will not be sufficient to cross the border.

Transitional rule. Minor Russian citizens who left Russia with a birth certificate before January 20, 2026, and do not have a Russian passport are entitled to re-enter with their birth certificate.

Recommendations for parents:

• submit documents for a foreign passport for your child in advance if you plan to travel after January 20, 2026;
• check the visa requirements of the destination country;
• If traveling without one parent, please note the requirement to have notarized consent from the other parent in cases stipulated by foreign law.

A practical example: A family with a 10-year-old son plans to return in March 2026. If the child has not received a passport by that date, entry into the Russian Federation will be difficult. The only exception is those who left before January 20, 2026, according to their birth certificate. In all other cases, a passport must be obtained in advance.

Crossing the border outside of checkpoints: When is it legal?

Starting July 23, 2025, crossing the Russian state border outside checkpoints will be permitted with the authorization of border authorities. This special procedure applies, for example, to:

• emergency rescue operations;
• scientific and geographical expeditions;
• individual logistics operations in hard-to-reach areas;
• other cases agreed directly with the Border Service.

Crossing without authorization outside of checkpoints remains an offense and carries penalties. Permission is essential for the legality of these crossings; the procedure for obtaining it and the route must be agreed upon in advance.

Practical tips and answers to frequently asked questions

What is the validity period of the e-visa in 2025?

From 23.08.2025 – 120 days, duration of stay – up to 30 days.

Does a child need a passport?

Starting January 20, 2026, children under 14 years of age will be required to have a foreign passport to enter the Russian Federation.

Is it possible to enter with a birth certificate?

Only if the child left the Russian Federation before January 20, 2026, and does not have a Russian passport, is entry permitted with a certificate under the transitional provision.

How to obtain an electronic visa?

Through the official website of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (with the application form, photo, and passport attached). Check the deadlines and list of countries before submitting your application.

Is it possible to cross the border outside of the checkpoints?

Starting July 23, 2025, the border can only be crossed with authorization from border authorities.