Russia Passport Rules for UK Travellers
Quick answer: GOV.UK says your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date your Russian visa expires. You must get a visa before you travel. FCDO advises against all travel to Russia.
Russia travel requirements at a glance
6 months after your visa expires
Required before you travel
Keep it to show when you leave
Sign passports issued after Jan 2017
Official source: GOV.UK Russia entry requirements.
Passport rules: quick summary
- Passport valid 6 months after visa expiry
- Visa needed before travel
- Keep your immigration card
- Register if staying over 7 working days
Passport validity for Russia
To enter Russia, your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date your visa expires.
You cannot enter Russia using a visa in an expired passport, even if you also carry a new passport. Sign your passport if it was issued after January 2017.
Visas
You must get a visa before you travel. See the Russia Visa Centre for how to apply.
If you live in the UK and are aged 12 or over, you must give fingerprints at a visa application centre in London, Manchester or Edinburgh.
Arriving and border checks
You must sign an immigration card every time you enter. Keep your half and show it when you leave. Biometric details are taken on arrival.
Some British nationals have been questioned and held for many hours at the border. You must register if staying anywhere for more than 7 working days.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need 6 months on my passport for Russia?
Yes. GOV.UK says your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date your visa expires.
Do I need a visa for Russia?
Yes. You must get a visa before you travel.
Is it safe to travel to Russia?
FCDO advises against all travel to Russia. UK government support there is severely limited.