Indian Tourists To Explore Russia Without a Visa by March 2025

Indian travelers dreaming of exploring Russia may soon do so without the hassle of a visa. Following discussions in June 2024, Russia and India are negotiating a bilateral agreement to relax visa requirements. If finalized, this policy could come into effect as early as March 2025, simplifying travel for Indian visitors to the largest country in the world.

Current Visa Requirements for Indian Visitors

At present, Indian citizens require specific visas depending on their travel purposes, including tourist, business, humanitarian, private, work, or student visas. However, the possibility of visa-free travel aims to eliminate these barriers, offering convenience and reducing travel costs.

Also read: Thailand to Launch ETA (e-Visa) System for Indian Travelers in 2025

What is Visa-Free Travel?
Visa-free travel allows visitors to enter a country without needing a visa in advance. Travelers simply present their passports on arrival, expediting entry and saving on visa-related expenses. Indian passport holders already enjoy visa-free access to 62 countries worldwide, and Russia might soon be added to the list.

Moscow’s Growing Popularity Among Indian Travelers

Russia, and Moscow in particular, has witnessed a surge in Indian visitors over recent years. Evgeny Kozlov, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, highlighted the growing trend.

“In the first half of 2024, Moscow welcomed 28,500 Indian travelers, a 1.5-fold increase compared to the same period last year,” Kozlov shared. He attributed most visits to business and work purposes.

India has consistently ranked among the top non-CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries sending travelers to Moscow. In 2023, over 60,000 Indian visitors explored Moscow; a 26% increase from 2022.

Kozlov emphasized, “India ranked third among non-CIS countries for business tourists in the first quarter of this year. Moscow authorities consider India a priority market, thanks to the strong, time-tested ties between the two countries.”

Also read: Dubai Visa Rejections Skyrocket for Indian Travelers: New Rules You Can't Ignore

Russia’s Unified E-Visa: A Current Option

For now, Indian travelers can use the Unified E-Visa (UEV) system, introduced on August 1, 2023, which streamlines the visa application process.

• What is the UEV?
  The UEV is a single-entry visa valid across the Russian Federation, accessible to citizens of 55 countries, including India. It facilitates travel for personal, business, tourism, or event purposes such as scientific, cultural, or sports gatherings.

• How to Apply for the UEV?
  Indian citizens can apply through the Consular Division of the Russian Embassy or the nearest Russian Consulate. Appointments can be booked via the official online portal, with processing typically completed in about four days.

Also read: Exploring Russia on a Budget: Essential Travel Tips for Affordable Trips

The Future of India-Russia Travel

If visa-free travel becomes a reality, it could boost tourism and business exchanges between India and Russia, opening doors to seamless exploration of iconic destinations like Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the picturesque Russian countryside.

For Indian travelers, this development could mark a new era of convenience and opportunity in international travel. So, get your passports ready; Russia might soon be closer than ever!