If you are planning to visit Russia without a visa, a major legal update requires your attention. As of 2025, Russia has formally reduced the maximum stay period for many visa-free travelers to three months per calendar year. This marks a shift from the earlier rule, which allowed stays of three months within any 180-day rolling period.
These changes may surprise frequent travelers who are used to entering Russia multiple times annually under the previous policy.
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Previous Visa-Free Stay Policy
Until recently, visa-free travelers could remain in Russia for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This system allowed multiple short visits over six months, as long as the total number of days spent in Russia did not exceed 90.
Who Is Affected by the New Law
The updated law impacts citizens of countries that have a visa-free agreement with Russia. These include many Latin American nations, parts of Asia, and countries within the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
For example, travelers from Argentina, Thailand, Turkey, and others are now limited to a maximum of three months per calendar year, regardless of how many trips they make or breaks taken between them.
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Can You Extend Your Stay?
In most cases, the answer is no—unless you meet specific exceptions. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, visa-free travelers may apply for an extension only in exceptional circumstances, such as:
- Employment offers from Russian employers
- Enrollment in an academic program at a Russian institution
- Close family ties with Russian citizens
If you qualify, you must apply before your initial three-month stay expires. Overstaying may lead to fines, deportation, or future entry bans.
Bilateral Agreements May Apply
Some countries have unique bilateral agreements with Russia that override the new rule. For example, Belarusian and Kazakh citizens follow different procedures due to deeper integration with Russia.
Before your trip, check with the Russian embassy or official immigration portal to verify whether special arrangements apply to your country.
List of Visa-Free Countries for Russia
The following countries have visa-free access to Russia:
CIS: Uzbekistan, Armenia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Belarus, Moldova, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan
Asia: Hong Kong, Brunei, Israel, South Korea, Laos, Thailand, Macao, Maldives
Europe: Montenegro, Serbia, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Middle East: United Arab Emirates, Qatar
Latin America: Uruguay, Argentina, Venezuela, Bolivia, Peru, Brazil, Paraguay, Chile, Panama, Colombia, Nicaragua, Cuba, Honduras, Ecuador, Guatemala, El Salvador
Caribbean: Grenada, Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent and the Grenadines
Oceania: Samoa, Fiji, Vanuatu, Micronesia, Tonga
Africa: South Africa, Seychelles (up to 3 months)
Note: Visa-free status does not guarantee automatic entry. Border officers may still deny access if requirements are not met.
New ETA System for Visa-Free Travelers
In addition to stay restrictions, Russia is launching a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system effective June 30, 2025. All visa-free travelers must register online and obtain a QR code before arrival, confirming their approval.
Travel Tips for Visa-Free Visitors
- Track your travel days carefully to avoid overstaying the 3-month-per-year limit
- Buy travel insurance even if not mandatory, as it is helpful during emergencies
- Be prepared with supporting documents such as proof of accommodation, return flight, and financial capacity
- Review your country’s status with Russia prior to each trip, as agreements may change
Russia’s updated law is part of a broader effort to regulate longer stays and enforce stricter immigration control. If you’re a frequent visitor or digital nomad relying on visa-free access, these updates should be carefully reviewed before planning your next visit.
