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

Ready for Your Business Trip to Russia?

Контакты

Напишите нам

Позвоните нам

Наши офисы

Часы работы