Apply for a visa early and register on arrival

All tourists must apply for visas ahead of time. How you go about it depends on your nationality and where you're going in Russia. Many nations, notably the United Kingdom and the United States, require travelers to apply in person at an embassy or consulate and present biometric data.

Passport holders from 52 countries, including many EU passengers, China, India, Japan, Singapore, and certain Middle Eastern countries, may be eligible for an e-visa. However, according to COVID-19, things are currently on hold. Confirm with your local Russian embassy or consulate. You can apply at the last minute, but it will likely be quite expensive. Begin the application process at least a month before your trip, and use a specialized travel agency to obtain visas and make important transportation arrangements.

Within seven days of arriving in Russia, all visitors should have their visas recorded, excepting weekends and public holidays. If you're staying in a private property, you must register with your hotel or hostel, or with your landlord, friend, or family. Keep in mind that your visa entry and exit dates will be written in European calendar convention (day/month/year) rather than American calendar convention (day/month/year), so don't get confused or overstay your visa. This one of the Things about Russia You Should Know before visiting Russia.