Russia entry requirements for Nepal passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 7, 2026·View sources
Visa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Nepali passport holders need a visa to enter Russia. You must apply through the Russian embassy or consulate before you travel — there is no visa-on-arrival and no e-visa option for Nepali citizens. Plan ahead, as the process involves paperwork and processing time.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Russian visaYou must get this visa before you fly; there is no visa-on-arrival or eVisa option for Nepali passports. Apply at embassy/consulate | Nepal passport holders must obtain a Russian visa before travel. Apply at the Russian Embassy or Consulate in Nepal or a designated visa center. No eVisa is available for Nepali citizens. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry date — if it's too close, renew it before applying for the visa. At least 6 months beyond entry | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry into Russia. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesThe visa and border officials need a clean page to attach stamps. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for the Russian visa and entry stamp. | Required |
| Visa application formThis form is part of the embassy application process. Completed and signed | Fill out the official Russian visa application form, print it, and sign it. Inaccurate information can lead to refusal. | Required |
| Passport-sized photosPhotos that don't meet specs can delay your application. Meet Russian visa photo rules | Provide recent passport-sized photos that meet the Russian visa photo requirements (white background, no glasses, correct size). | Required |
| Visa invitation/support letterThis is a key document for the visa application — arrange it well in advance. Depending on visa type | For most visa types, you need an official invitation from a Russian host or hotel, or a tourist voucher from a registered travel agency. | Required |
| Proof of fundsBorder officials may ask to see that you can support yourself during your visit. For visa and entry | Show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Russia, such as recent bank statements or traveler's checks. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketYou may be asked to show this at the border or when applying for the visa. Confirmed booking | Have a confirmed return or onward flight ticket showing you will leave Russia before your visa expires. | Required |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any additional arrival form beyond the standard immigration procedures. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Nepal passport holders entering Russia. | Not required |
No e-visa or visa-on-arrival for Nepali citizens
Despite Russia's e-visa system for some nationalities, Nepali passport holders are NOT eligible. You must apply through the Russian embassy or consulate in person. Don't fall for online services claiming to offer e-visas — they are scams.
Plan ahead — visa invitation takes time
Getting the visa invitation can take several days to a few weeks, depending on the issuing agency. Factor this into your timeline. It's wise to start the process at least 2–3 months before your planned travel date.
Overstaying is serious
Russian visa overstays are treated strictly. Even a one-day overstay can lead to a fine and a 3–5 year ban from entering Russia. Set a reminder to leave before your visa expires.
What happens at the border
1
Obtain a visa invitation
Contact a Russian travel agency or your hotel to get a visa invitation. This is the first step because you need it to fill out the application form. For tourist visas, many hotels include this in their booking package.
2
Fill out the online application
Go to the official Russian visa portal (visa.kdmid.ru), complete the form, and print it. Double-check every field — any mismatch with your passport can cause delays or rejection.
3
Submit your application at the embassy
Visit the Russian Embassy in Kathmandu (or the consulate that handles your region) with all your documents. You'll need to appear in person for biometrics and an interview. Bring your passport, photos, invitation, accommodation proof, insurance, and the printed application form.
4
Pay the visa fee
Pay the fee at the embassy when you submit. Fees are usually in cash or via bank transfer — check the embassy's website for accepted methods.
5
Wait for processing
Processing can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the visa type and how busy the embassy is. Don't book non-refundable flights until you have your visa in hand.
6
Collect your passport with the visa
Once approved, you'll get your passport back with the visa sticker. Check the dates and the number of entries to make sure they match your travel plans.
Download Russia Entry Checklist
PDF · Nepal Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa (multiple-entry)
Max stay90 days per entry
ValidityUp to 1 year
Cost$250–$400
Requires invitation from a Russian company; allows multiple entries.
Work visa
Max stayUp to 1 year (renewable)
Validity1 year
Cost$300–$500
Requires work permit and employer sponsorship.
Private visa (visiting friends/family)
Max stay90 days
ValidityUp to 3 months
Cost$160–$200
Requires invitation from a Russian citizen or resident.
work visa
Work Visa (Highly Qualified Specialist)
1 year, renewable annually
~$200 USD (approx. 16,000 RUB) + employer fees
For skilled professionals with a job offer from a Russian company. Requires employer sponsorship and higher salary threshold. Allows family reunion.
student visa
Student Visa (Study Visa)
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~$100 USD (approx. 8,000 RUB) + tuition
For those enrolled in a Russian educational institution. Requires acceptance letter and proof of financial support. Allows part-time work.
permanent residence
Temporary Residence Permit (RVP)
3 years, renewable
~$150 USD (approx. 12,000 RUB) + processing
For those with family ties or investment in Russia. Requires Russian language test and medical exam. Path to permanent residency.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Single-entry tourist visa (up to 30 days)Fee varies by processing speed and visa center; additional service fees may apply. | $160 (standard processing) |
| Double-entry tourist visa (up to 30 days per entry)For those needing to exit and re-enter Russia. | $200 (standard processing) |
| Multiple-entry business visa (up to 90 days per entry)Requires invitation from Russian business partner. | $250 (standard processing) |
| Visa support / invitation letter (tourist voucher)Required for tourist visa; obtainable from Russian travel agencies or hotels. | $20–$50 |
| Visa center service feeCharged by authorized visa application centers (e.g., VFS Global). | $30–$50 |
| Visa extension (for overstays or emergencies)Must be applied before visa expiry; limited grounds. | 1600 RUB (~$20) |
| Exit fee (if overstaying)Fines for overstay; may be required before departure. | Up to 5000 RUB (~$60) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documents20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Russia
Transit visa required
Nepali passport holders need a transit visa to pass through Russia, even for airside transit, unless they qualify for the 24-hour visa-free transit at certain airports under specific conditions (e.g., staying in the international zone and having onward tickets).
Exceptions & conditions
- Passengers with confirmed onward tickets and staying in the international transit zone for less than 24 hours at Moscow Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, or Vnukovo airports may be exempt from a transit visa.
- Transit through other airports or leaving the airport requires a transit visa.
Transit hubsSheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) · Domodedovo International Airport (DME) · Vnukovo International Airport (VKO)
Health & vaccines for Russia
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, polio, influenza)EssentialRabiesConsider
Health risks
Tick-borne encephalitisModerate risk
Present in forested areas, especially in Siberia and the Urals; vaccination recommended for rural travel.
TuberculosisModerate risk
Higher incidence in Russia; avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Risk of traveler's diarrhea; drink bottled or boiled water and eat thoroughly cooked food.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Moscow
Main Department of Migration Affairs of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia for Moscow
ul. Novoslobodskaya, 45, Moscow
Mon–Fri 09:00–18:00
Handles visa extensions and registration; bring passport, visa, and migration card.
Saint Petersburg
Department of Migration Affairs for Saint Petersburg and Leningrad Oblast
ul. Krasnogo Tekstilshchika, 10-12, Saint Petersburg
Mon–Fri 09:00–18:00
For visa-related issues; appointment recommended.
Practical information for NP travellers
Country basics
CapitalMoscow
LanguageRussian
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 60 days, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyRussian Ruble (RUB)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 77.76 RUB
Time zone
Local timeUTC+3
vs New York+8h
vs Los Angeles+11h
Electricity
Voltage220V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,FType C (two round pins) and Type F (two round pins with grounding clips)
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; boil or use bottled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
No. Russia does not offer visa-on-arrival for Nepali citizens. You must have a visa issued by a Russian embassy or consulate before you travel. Without it, you'll be denied boarding and entry.
Processing time varies. Standard processing can take 7–10 working days, but it can be longer during peak seasons. Some embassies offer expedited processing for an extra fee — check with the Russian Embassy in Kathmandu for current options.
The visa fee depends on the visa type and processing speed. As of 2026, expect to pay roughly USD 50–150. The exact amount is set by the embassy — check their official website or call them for the latest fee schedule.
Yes. A visa invitation is mandatory for all Russian visa types, including tourist visas. Your hotel or a Russian travel agency can provide it. Many hotels include it in their booking, but confirm in writing before you pay.
No. Russian visas are not extendable for Nepali citizens. You must leave Russia before your visa expires. Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and a ban from re-entering Russia.
Yes, in most cases. Your hotel or host must register your visa with the local migration office within 7 working days of your arrival. If you're staying in a hotel, they'll handle it automatically. If you're in private accommodation, you must ensure your host does it.
If your visa is denied, the fee is non-refundable. You can reapply, but you'll need to address the reason for the denial (e.g., incomplete documents, criminal record, or previous overstay). It's best to double-check all documents before submitting.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 7, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.