What is a Russian business visa?

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).

How much does a Russian business visa cost?

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.

What is a Letter of Invitation (LOI)?

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.

Can I get a multi-year business visa?

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Can I use a business visa for tourism?

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.

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

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.

💼 Updated for 2026

Russian Business Visa — Complete Guide & LOI

Everything you need to know about Russian business visas: Letter of Invitation (LOI), requirements, costs, and step-by-step application process.

LOI from $149

Single-entry invitation

5–10 business days

Standard LOI delivery

Up to 1 year

Multi-entry available

Get Business Invitation — from $149

Quick Answer

A Russian business visa requires a Letter of Invitation (LOI) from a registered Russian company. The LOI costs $149–$399 depending on entry type. Total visa cost: $189–$559 (LOI + consular fee). Processing: 2–4 weeks total. Business visas allow stays of up to 90 days per entry and can be valid for up to 1 year (multi-entry).

Business Visa Invitation Pricing

Choose the right invitation for your needs:

Single Entry

For a one-time business trip

$149

Up to 90 days
1 entry
Delivery: 5–10 business days
Official LOI from registered company
Accepted by all consulates

Order Single Entry

Double Entry

For trips with a side visit

$199

Up to 90 days
2 entries
Delivery: 5–10 business days
Official LOI from registered company
Accepted by all consulates

Order Double Entry

Multi-Entry (1 Year)

For frequent business travelers

$399

1 year validity
Unlimited entries
Delivery: 10–15 business days
Official LOI from registered company
Accepted by all consulates

Order Multi-Entry (1 Year)

Business Visa vs Tourist Visa

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

How to Apply — Step by Step

Choose Your Visa Duration

Decide: single-entry (up to 90 days, $149), double-entry (up to 90 days, $199), or multi-entry (1 year, $249–$399). Multi-entry is best for frequent travelers.

Order Your Business Invitation (LOI)

Order your Letter of Invitation online. We issue LOIs from a registered Russian company. Standard delivery: 5–10 business days. Express: 1–3 days.

Complete the Visa Application

Fill out the application at visa.kdmid.ru. Select 'Business' as visa purpose. Print and sign the form.

Prepare Documents

Gather: passport, LOI, application form, photo, travel insurance (if required), and consular fee. Some consulates may require a cover letter from your employer.