Russia's New Visa-Free Stay Policy for Foreigners Starting 2025
Effective January 1, 2025, Russia is introducing significant changes to its visa-free stay policy for foreigners. The new regulations will limit visa-free stays to 90 days within a calendar year, replacing the current rule of 90 days within any 180-day period. This shift aims to streamline entry policies while addressing administrative and security concerns.
Key Details of the New Rule
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Duration of Stay: Foreign nationals entering Russia under a visa-free regime will only be allowed to stay for a cumulative total of 90 days within a single calendar year. This marks a departure from the previous rule that allowed 90 days within any rolling 180-day period.
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Exemptions: The new rules do not apply to individuals entering Russia for specific purposes, such as:
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Studying
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Working
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Temporary Residence
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Asylum
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Those covered by bilateral or multilateral agreements between Russia and other nations.
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Visa-Based Entries: The changes have no impact on travelers entering Russia with a visa. Rules for visa-based entries will remain unchanged, ensuring continuity for those requiring extended stays for business, education, or other purposes.
Implications for Travelers
For frequent travelers to Russia, this adjustment requires careful planning. Tourists, businesspersons, and other visitors relying on visa-free regimes must now track their stay duration within the calendar year to avoid overstaying. Additionally, those who previously benefited from the rolling 180-day framework may need to apply for visas if their stay exceeds the newly imposed limit.
What This Means for Bilateral Agreements
The policy emphasizes the importance of existing bilateral or multilateral agreements, which may override the new rules for citizens of certain countries. Travelers from nations with special agreements will need to verify their eligibility and the applicable terms before planning their visits.
Why the Change?
This policy shift reflects Russia’s effort to enhance border management and ensure that visa-free privileges are utilized appropriately. By simplifying the calculation of permitted stay durations, the government aims to reduce administrative ambiguities and improve compliance among foreign visitors.
Preparing for the Change
Travelers planning trips to Russia in 2025 and beyond are advised to:
Review travel plans: Ensure your cumulative stay within the year does not exceed 90 days.
Apply for visas if necessary: If you anticipate a longer stay, consider applying for an appropriate visa in advance.
Understand exemptions: Determine if you qualify for any exemptions under bilateral or multilateral agreements.
Conclusion
Russia’s updated visa-free stay policy introduces a significant change for foreign visitors, requiring more precise travel planning. By aligning their regulations with international best practices, Russia is striving to enhance the effectiveness of its immigration policies. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed and prepared to adapt to these new requirements starting in 2025.
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