Russia has opened borders to Indians now, however, several steps have to be followed to travel to the nation now. But if you are wondering how to visit Russia especially after seeing the vacation pictures of celebrities like Tapsee Punnu in the picturesque country, here’s everything you need to know about travelling to Russia right now. Read on!
What Are The Visa Requirements For Russia?
Any traveller from India must apply for a tourist visa that is valid for up to 30 days for single entry or double entry. This also includes the non-Indian citizens with a residence permit or any other document that proves their right to permanently reside in India. Indians Can Now Travel To Russia, Turkey & 4 More Countries On Tourist Visa; Details Here.
1/4 Issuing of visas of all categories (including student #visa) to enter #Russia via air checkpoints is resumed for the Indian citizens, as well as for persons who have a residence permit. pic.twitter.com/lPpm9JwTeL
— Russia in India 🇷🇺 (@RusEmbIndia) January 30, 2021
What Are The Entry Requirements For Russia?
For entry to Russia, you will need to have an invitation from a government-mandated tourist agency. You will also need to present a negative RT-PCR test report on arrival. The test must be done within 72 hours prior to arrival. Besides that, you will also have to undergo an on-spot test on arrival. Those testing positive will be transferred to a COVID testing facility. Taapsee Pannu Gives Wanderlust Goals From Russia; Stays At Rustic Airbnb In Moscow.
Vaccine Tourism: Russia to allow travel for vaccination#COVID19 pic.twitter.com/yhgOHT3wiv
— NDTV (@ndtv) May 19, 2021
Which Airlines Are Flying To Russia From India Right Now?
Even though commercial international flights to Russia are banned, Indians can still travel to and from a select few countries. This is possible due to the air bubbles or air corridors created by the Indian government in these countries. India entered into an air travel bubble with Russia, which in February. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Aeroloft, Lufthansa, Emirates, and Etihad Airways are running flights from Mumbai and Delhi to Moscow and St. Petersburg right now!
As a token of gratitude to our loyal customers Aeroflot has extended the elite level status for members of our Aeroflot Bonus frequent flyer programme. https://t.co/bLD7zn0ElD #AeroflotBonus pic.twitter.com/w3Ktkwh0uM
— Aeroflot_World (@Aeroflot_World) June 4, 2021
Are Tourist Destinations In Russia Open?
Moscow: Tourist places in Moscow are now open for visitors. However, the nightclubs, restaurants, and cafes are now open from 11 pm and 6 am. However, you can visit the eateries only if you show a QR code that proves you have a negative PCR result.
St. Petersburg: Due to the Euro 2020 matches, food courts and children’s play areas will remain closed. The cinemas will operate at 50% capacity and restaurants will be closed for dine-in between 2 am and 6 am.
The “Scarlet Sails” festival broadcast on Visit Petersburg was watched in 87 countries of the world https://t.co/nMj11Y5DVw pic.twitter.com/KptNPNw9Xa
— Saint Petersburg (@VisitPetersburg) June 29, 2021
Krasnodar region: Russia’s beach holiday region will accept guests from July 1 only if they are vaccinated against COVID-19 or have a negative PCR report. However, only vaccinated guests will be allowed into resorts from August.
Also read: Beware! The 24-Day Vaccine Tourism Package To Russia Could Be A Hoax & Here’s Why
What Is Russia’s COVID-19 Situation Right Now?
Over 20,000 new cases of coronavirus were detected in Russia in the past few days. However, Moscow and St. Petersburg currently have the highest number of positive COVID-19 cases in the country right now.
Watch out for this space for all the updated travel rules and guidelines.