An agreement for a simplified visa between the European Union and the Russian Federation became effective on June 1, 2007

04.06.2007

An agreement for a simplified visa between the European Union and the Russian Federation became effective on June 1, 2007.

The purpose of the agreement based on mutual policy, is to facilitate the issuance of short-term visas allowing for a stay of up to 90 days within a six-month period.

The simplified visa agreement is valid between citizens of the European Union member states (except Great Britain, Ireland and Denmark) and citizens of the Russian Federation.  European Union and Russian diplomatic passport holders are visa free.

The visa processing time according to the simplified visa agreement is up to 10 calendar days or longer, and the visa fee is $47 regardless of the purpose of the trip.  Express visas are issued by the consul within 3 business days and cost $94.   The agreement facilitates document requirements for visa applicants in certain categories.

The new agreement also facilitates the issuance of multiple entry visas valid up to 5 years to European Union and the Russian Federation citizens’ spouses and children, and to members of the local grovernment, the parliament and the supreme court.who are travelling on business.  One-, two- or five-year multiple entry visas may also be issued to journalists, drivers, train personnel, contractors and official delegation members.

Additional inormation  about the simplified visa agreement between the Europen Union and the Russion Federation is available at http://www.nyc.estemb.org/consular_information/visa_agreement