Question 1

What is a Russian business visa?

Accepted Answer

A Russian business visa allows foreign nationals to enter Russia for business purposes: meetings, negotiations, conferences, trade fairs, contract signing, and other commercial activities. It is NOT a work visa — you cannot be employed in Russia on a business visa. Business visas can be single-entry (up to 90 days), double-entry (up to 90 days), or multiple-entry (up to 1 year, with 90 days per 180-day period).

Question 2

How much does a Russian business visa cost?

Accepted Answer

The total cost depends on your nationality and visa duration. Consular fee: $40–$160 (varies by country). Business invitation (LOI): $149 (single-entry), $199 (double-entry), $249–$399 (multi-entry 1 year). Total: approximately $189–$559. Express processing adds $50–$100 to the consular fee.

Question 3

What is a Letter of Invitation (LOI)?

Accepted Answer

A Letter of Invitation (LOI) is an official document from a registered Russian company inviting you to Russia for business purposes. It is mandatory for all business visa applications. The LOI is issued by the Russian Federal Migration Service (FMS) through a sponsoring Russian company. We provide LOIs from $149 — delivered in 5–10 business days.

Question 4

Can I get a multi-year business visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only for certain nationalities. US citizens can get business visas valid for up to 3 years. Most other nationalities can get 1-year multiple-entry business visas. Multi-entry visas allow you to enter Russia multiple times, with each stay limited to 90 days per 180-day period.

Question 5

What's the difference between a business visa and a work visa?

Accepted Answer

A business visa allows short-term business activities (meetings, negotiations, conferences) but NOT employment. A work visa (work permit) allows you to be employed by a Russian company. If you plan to work in Russia, you need a work permit, which requires a separate application process through your employer.

Question 6

How long does it take to get a business visa invitation?

Accepted Answer

Standard processing: 5–10 business days for the invitation (LOI). Express: 1–3 business days. After receiving the invitation, consulate processing takes an additional 5–10 business days (standard) or 1–3 days (express). Total timeline: 2–4 weeks.

Question 7

Can I use a business visa for tourism?

Accepted Answer

Technically, a business visa allows you to engage in tourism activities during your stay. However, it's more expensive than a tourist visa. If your primary purpose is tourism, a tourist visa ($18 invitation) is more cost-effective. Business visas are best for: frequent travelers, longer stays, or those who need multiple entries.

Question 8

Do I need a business visa for a conference in Russia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Attending a business conference, trade fair, or exhibition in Russia requires a business visa (not a tourist visa). The conference organizer can provide an invitation, or you can order a business visa invitation from us. Some conferences may also accept e-visa holders from eligible countries.

Feature	Business Visa	Tourist Visa
Purpose	Business activities	Tourism only
Invitation cost	$149–$399	$18–$39
Max stay	90 days/entry	30 days
Multi-entry	Up to 1 year (or 3yr for US)	Single/Double only
Invitation delivery	5–10 business days	5 minutes (email)
Conferences allowed	Yes	No
Best for	Frequent travelers, long stays	One-time trips

Russian Business Visa — Complete Guide & LOI

Quick Answer

Business Visa Invitation Pricing

Single Entry

Double Entry

Multi-Entry (1 Year)

Business Visa vs Tourist Visa

How to Apply — Step by Step

Choose Your Visa Duration

Order Your Business Invitation (LOI)

Complete the Visa Application

Prepare Documents

Submit to Consulate

Frequently Asked Questions

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