What Type of Visa Do You Need?

• Visa Name:
  • Russian Student Visa
  • Russian Humanitarian Visa

Where to Apply for a Russian Student Visa

• Application Centers:
  • Russian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
  • Authorized Visa Centers (available in some countries).

How to Apply for a Russian Student Visa

1. Obtain University Admission:
   Secure admission to a Russian university, college, or institute to receive an official invitation letter.

    

    

   • The invitation is valid for three months.
2. Submit Your Application:
   Visit the Russian Embassy, Consulate, or authorized visa center in your country with the following documents:

    

    

   • Completed visa application form.
   • Original passport (valid for at least 1.5 years) + a photocopy of the front page.
   • One passport-size photograph (as per specifications).
   • Money order for the visa fee.
   • Original invitation letter from your Russian host institution.
   • Negative HIV/AIDS test certificate (not older than three months).
3. Register Your Visa Upon Arrival:
   • You must register your visa within seven days of entering Russia.
   • Registration is usually handled by your host institution (university or college).
   • Retain proof of registration until you leave the country.

Application Timeline

• Begin the application process 45 days before your planned arrival.
• Processing times range from two to five weeks.

Visa Validity and Extension

• Initially valid for 90 days.
• Extendable up to one year, renewable annually for the duration of your studies.

Work Opportunities for Students

• Work Permit Requirement:
  A permit from the Federal Migration Service (FMS) is required unless working:

   

   

  • During holidays, or
  • At your host institution.
• Eligibility for Work Permit:
  • Full-time student at a state-accredited university.
  • At least 18 years old.
• Permit Details:
  • Costs RUB 3,500 (approx. USD 60).
  • Specifies the profession and region of employment.
  • Becomes invalid if you leave your course.

Why Might Your Application Be Denied?

• Submitting false documents or misrepresenting facts.
• Testing HIV-positive, as per Russian visa regulations.

By adhering to these guidelines, students can successfully secure their visa and begin their academic journey in Russia.