A document filled out by all foreign visitors upon arrival in Russia. It records entry/exit dates and is required for hotel registration and visa extensions.
A migration card (Russian: миграционная карта) is a small paper document that every foreign visitor must fill out upon entering Russia. It is provided by the airline, train, or border control officer and must be completed before passing through passport control.
The migration card has two identical halves (A and B):
Information on the migration card:
Why the migration card is important: 1. Required for hotel check-in (hotels need it for registration) 2. Required for visa registration within 7 business days 3. Must be presented when leaving Russia (Part B) 4. Needed for any visa extension or status change 5. Police may ask to see it during document checks
If you lose your migration card, you must report it to the nearest MVD migration office within 3 days and obtain a replacement. Leaving Russia without surrendering Part B can result in future entry bans.
Note: Migration cards are gradually being digitized, and some entry points now process them electronically. However, the paper version is still standard at most border crossings.
You must report the loss to the nearest MVD migration office within 3 days to get a replacement. Without it, you may face problems at hotel check-in, police checks, and when leaving Russia.
Usually yes. Airlines flying to Russia distribute migration cards during the flight. If not, you can get one at the border control area before passport check.
The process of registering a foreign visitor's presence in Russia within 7 business days of arrival. Usually done by the hotel or hosting organization.
The Russian government agency formerly responsible for migration control, registration of foreign visitors, and visa regulation. Now part of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD).
The most common visa type for travelers visiting Russia for sightseeing, cultural events, or visiting friends. Valid for up to 30 days with single or double entry.
The immigration checkpoint at Russian airports and land borders where officers verify your visa, passport, and migration card before allowing entry or exit.
Get your Russian visa invitation in 5 minutes. Accepted by all consulates worldwide.
Have questions about visa invitations or the visa process? Our team is ready to help.
Dubai, UAE
TARGUS K1 DMCC, Tower Armada 2, JLTSt. Petersburg, Russia
Leninsky pr., 153, Lit. A, office 706Local time in each office
Mon–Fri: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PMOnline orders processed 24/7 automatically