Are you a Russian citizen planning to visit India? If so, get ready for an incredible journey filled with diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes! However, before packing your bags and heading off on your adventure, you’ll need to obtain an Indian visa. Don’t worry; it’s not as complicated as it may seem! In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about obtaining an Indian visa for Russian citizens. From the application process to the documents required – we’ve got all the information you need to make your travel dreams a reality! Indian Visa for Russian Citizens
Overview of the Indian Visa for Russians
As of July 2019, Indian citizens who wish to visit Russia for business, medical or tourism purposes can do so without a visa, provided they stay for no longer than 60 days.
Previously, Indians had to apply for a visa through a Russian consulate, which could be a lengthy and complicated process. The new agreement between the two countries simplifies travel for Indians by allowing them to obtain what is called a “visa on arrival” (VOA) at any of Russia’s airports.
To get a VOA, Indian citizens must have a valid passport with at least two blank pages and an onward or return ticket. They must also fill out an online form before arrival and pay a visa fee of approximately $50. Once these requirements are met, travelers can obtain their VOA at the airport and enjoy their trip to Russia without any further hassle.
Requirements for Obtaining an Indian Visa
To obtain an Indian visa for Russian citizens, you will need to submit the following documents:
-A completed visa application form. This can be obtained from the website of the Indian Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. Indian Visa for Singapore Citizens
-A valid passport with at least two blank pages. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your planned arrival in India.
-Two recent passport-sized photographs. These should be taken against a white background and should not be older than six months.
-Proof of onward travel. This could be in the form of a return ticket or an itinerary for your onward journey from India.
-Proof of sufficient funds. You will need to show that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in India. This could be in the form of bank statements or a letter from your employer confirming your salary/wages.
Types of Indian Visas for Russians
There are two types of visas that Russian citizens can apply for when looking to travel to India – a tourist visa and a business visa.
A tourist visa allows Russians to stay in India for up to 60 days, and is valid for multiple entries into the country over a period of one year. This type of visa is ideal for those who are looking to explore India’s many tourist attractions, or for those who are planning on visiting friends and family members who live in the country.
A business visa, on the other hand, allows Russians to stay in India for up to six months and is also valid for multiple entries. This type of visa is perfect for those who are planning on conducting business in India, or for those who are attending a business-related conference or event.
No matter which type of visa you are applying for, there are certain requirements that all applicants must meet. These include having a valid passport, providing proof of onward travel plans, and submitting photographs that meet Indian visa requirements. In addition, applicants will also need to pay a visa fee before their application can be processed.
How to Apply for an Indian Visa
First and foremost, you will need a valid passport to apply for an Indian visa. Make sure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your planned date of travel to India. Secondly, you will need two recent passport-sized photographs (35mm x 45mm) that meet the following criteria:
-Taken within the last three months
-On plain white background
-Sized such that the head (top of hair to bottom of chin) measures 35mm – 40mm and the width is between 28mm and 32mm
-Taken in front view directly facing the camera
-With a neutral expression and both eyes open
If you are applying for a business visa, you will also need to provide a letter of invitation from an Indian company. For a tourist visa, you will need to provide evidence of your hotel bookings or travel itinerary. Make sure you have enough blank pages in your passport for any necessary visas and entry/exit stamps. Once you have gathered all of the required documents, you can begin the application process online via the website of the High Commission of India in Moscow.
Processing Times and Fees
It can take up to 4 weeks to process an Indian visa for Russian citizens. The processing time may be shorter or longer, depending on the number of applications being processed at the same time. There is a non-refundable processing fee of $160 USD that must be paid when you submit your application. Additional fees may apply if you need to have your passport returned by courier.
Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Application Process
If you’re a Russian citizen looking to travel to India, you’ll need to obtain a visa before your trip. The application process for an Indian visa can be daunting, but there are some tips and tricks you can follow to make it as smooth as possible.
First, make sure you have all the required documents. You’ll need a valid passport, two recent passport-sized photos, and a completed visa application form. You may also need additional documents, depending on your reason for travel.
Next, submit your application online or in person at an Indian consulate or embassy. If you apply online, you’ll need to pay a processing fee with a credit or debit card. Once your application is processed, you’ll receive an email with instructions on how to proceed.
Wait for your visa to be approved. This can take up to several weeks, so it’s important to apply for your visa well in advance of your planned trip. Once approved, you’ll receive a physical copy of your visa via mail or courier service. Be sure to keep this safe; you’ll need to present it when entering India.
With these tips in mind, the process of applying for an Indian visa should be much simpler. Just be sure to start early and have all the required documents ready before beginning the application process.
FAQs on the Indian Visa Process
- Do Russian citizens need a visa to enter India? Yes, all foreign nationals including Russian citizens are required to possess a valid visa before attempting to enter India.
- How can Russian citizens apply for an Indian visa? The process for applying for an Indian visa is fairly straightforward and can be done either online or offline. For offline applications, Russians will need to submit their application and supporting documents at the nearest Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC). Online applications can be submitted through the official website of the Government of India.
- What are the required documents for an Indian visa application? In order to complete the application process, Russians will need to submit a few key documents including a passport-sized photograph, their passport, and proof of travel plans (e.g. flight itinerary). Additional documents may be required depending on the type of visa being applied for.
- How long does it take to process an Indian visa application? The processing time for an Indian visa application varies depending on the type of visa being applied for as well as the country of origin. In general, however, most visas are processed within 7-10 business days.
- How much does an Indian visa cost? The cost of an Indian visa also varies depending on the type of visa being applied for as well as the country of origin. In general, single-entry visas start at around $60 USD while multiple-entry visas can cost upwards of $100 USD.
Conclusion
Russian citizens looking to visit India for either business or pleasure should take the time to familiarize themselves with the process of obtaining an Indian visa. This article has provided a comprehensive overview of all the necessary information, including documents required, fees and processing times. With this knowledge in hand, you can now begin your journey towards a successful Indian visa application!