Russia entry requirements for Poland passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 19, 2026·View sources
eVisa 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
Polish passport holders need an eVisa to enter Russia in 2026. The eVisa allows a single entry for up to 16 days and must be applied for online before travel. Plan ahead — processing can take up to 4 calendar days.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Russia eVisa | Apply for a Russia eVisa at the official portal. The eVisa allows a single entry for up to 16 days. Processing takes up to 4 calendar days. Print the eVisa approval and carry it with your passport.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Original passport | Your Polish passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Russia. Have at least two blank visa pages. Airlines check this before boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers at Russian airports routinely ask for a confirmed return or onward ticket. The ticket must show you leave Russia within the eVisa's 16-day validity. Budget airlines check this at check-in. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation | Have a printed hotel reservation or a visa invitation (voucher) for your entire stay. Officers at passport control sometimes ask to see it. The booking must match the dates on your eVisa. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Financial means | Carry evidence of sufficient funds for your stay — at least 500 USD equivalent per day. A bank statement or credit card with available limit works. Officers rarely ask, but it's better to have it. | Recommended |
eVisa is single-entry only
Once you leave Russia, the eVisa is used up. You cannot re-enter on the same eVisa. Plan your trip so you don't need to exit and come back.
Keep digital copies of everything
Save your eVisa PDF, passport photo, and booking confirmations to your phone and email. If you lose the printed copy, you can show the digital version at passport control.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for your eVisa online
Go to evisa.kdmid.ru and fill out the application. You'll need your passport details, travel dates, and a digital photo. Submit and pay the fee (if any). Processing takes up to 4 calendar days.
2
Receive and print your eVisa
Once approved, you'll get a PDF by email. Print it out and keep a digital copy on your phone. You'll need to show it at passport control.
3
Arrive at the airport in Russia
At passport control, hand over your passport and printed eVisa. The officer may ask for your return ticket and accommodation confirmation. Answer clearly and briefly. You'll get an entry stamp valid for up to 16 days.
4
Register your stay (if required)
Hotels usually register you automatically. If you're staying in a private apartment, the host must register you within 7 days of arrival. Ask your host to confirm this is done.
Download Russia Entry Checklist
PDF · Poland Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 19, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~$100 USD (approx. 400 PLN)
Requires invitation letter and travel insurance.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~$200 USD (approx. 800 PLN)
Allows multiple entries; same requirements as single entry.
Long-stay visa (work/study)
Max stay1 year, extendable
Validity1 year
Cost~$300 USD (approx. 1200 PLN)
Requires employer or university sponsorship.
work visa
Work Visa (Rabochaya Viza)
1 year, renewable
~$300 USD (approx. 1200 PLN) + employer fees
For those with a job offer from a Russian employer. Requires work permit and employer sponsorship. Allows long-term residence.
student visa
Student Visa (Uchebnaya Viza)
Duration of studies, up to 4 years
~$200 USD (approx. 800 PLN) + university fees
For enrollment in a Russian educational institution. Requires acceptance letter and proof of financial support.
investor visa
Investor Visa (Investitsionnaya Viza)
3 years, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. 2000 PLN) + investment minimum
For those investing a significant amount in the Russian economy. Requires proof of investment and business plan.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa entry feeStandard fee for Polish citizens applying for Russian eVisa. | ~$50 USD (approx. 200 PLN) |
| Tourist visa (single entry)For longer stays or multiple entries, if eVisa not sufficient. | ~$100 USD (approx. 400 PLN) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | ~$200 USD (approx. 800 PLN) |
| Overstay fine per dayPenalty for exceeding authorized stay. | ~$10 USD (approx. 40 PLN) per day, max $500 USD |
Common reasons for entry denial
Incomplete or expired documents30%
Insufficient funds25%
No return ticket20%
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
Polish citizens generally need a transit visa to change planes in Russia, even if staying airside. However, if you have a valid visa for Russia or a confirmed onward ticket to a third country, you may be exempt.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid Russian visa do not need a separate transit visa.
- Crew members of international flights may be exempt.
Transit hubsSheremetyevo International Airport (SVO), Moscow · Domodedovo International Airport (DME), Moscow · Vnukovo International Airport (VKO), Moscow
Health & vaccines for Russia
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidRecommendedRabiesConsiderTick-borne encephalitisRecommended
Health risks
Tick-borne encephalitisModerate risk
Risk in forested areas, especially in spring and summer. Vaccination recommended for outdoor activities.
RabiesLow risk
Risk from animal bites, especially in rural areas. Avoid contact with stray animals.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Risk of traveler's diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid from contaminated food/water. Practice safe eating and drinking.
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
ul. Bolshaya Dmitrovka, 16, Moscow
Mon–Fri 09:00–18:00
Handles visa extensions and registration for foreign nationals.
Saint Petersburg
Department of Migration Affairs for Saint Petersburg and Leningrad Oblast
ul. Saltykova-Shchedrina, 4, Saint Petersburg
Mon–Fri 09:00–18:00
Main office for visa-related issues in the region.
Practical information for PL 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 = 71.3 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
Processing takes up to 4 calendar days. Apply at least a week before your trip to be safe. You'll receive the approved eVisa by email as a PDF.
No. The eVisa is valid for a single entry and a maximum stay of 16 days. It cannot be extended or changed after approval.
Hotels handle registration automatically. If you're staying in a private apartment, your host must register you within 7 days. Ask them to confirm it's done — you don't need to go to an office yourself.
Your application will be rejected. Renew your passport first, then apply for the eVisa. The 6 months are counted from your entry date into Russia.
Yes, the eVisa is valid for entry at all international airports, seaports, and land border crossings that are open to foreign travelers. Check the official list on the eVisa website before you go.
No, it's not a requirement for the eVisa application or entry. But it's strongly recommended — medical costs in Russia can be very high, and insurance covers emergencies.
You'll receive a reason for rejection. Common issues include incorrect passport details or an expired passport. You can reapply immediately with corrected information. There's no limit on how many times you can apply.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 19, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.