Russia to Offer Visa-Free Entry for Indian Travellers by 2025

Russia is set to offer visa-free entry to Indian travelers by spring 2025, making it easier for tourists from India to visit Moscow. This upcoming policy promises to streamline travel and strengthen tourism relations between India and Russia.

Indian travellers may soon be able to visit Russia without needing a visa, with visa-free travel anticipated to begin as early as spring 2025. This development was recently announced by Evgeny Kozlov, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, marking a strategic effort to increase Indian tourism to Moscow.

Visa-Free Travel to Russia

The visa-free travel arrangement aims to make Moscow more accessible for Indian visitors and attract more travellers from India, a key market for Russian tourism. According to Kozlov, this move is expected to simplify the travel process, opening new doors for Indian tourists keen on exploring Moscow’s rich cultural and business offerings.

The Surge in Indian Tourism

Indian tourists are increasingly interested in visiting Moscow. Over 28,500 Indian tourists visited the Russian capital in the first half of 2024 alone, marking a 1.5-fold increase from the previous year.

By the end of 2023, India ranked as a top non-CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) country for tourism in Moscow, showing a 26% rise compared to 2022.

Key Highlights:

• Visitor Growth: 28,500 Indian tourists in the first half of 2024
• Year-on-Year Increase: 1.5 times more Indian visitors than in early 2023
• Top Market: India ranked as a top non-CIS country for tourism to Moscow
• Significant Rise: 26% growth in Indian visitors from 2022 to 2023

Current E-Visa Process

At present, Indian travellers can apply for an e-visa to enter Russia, which typically takes around four days to process. India ranked among the top five countries for e-visas to Russia in 2023, with over 9,500 issued to Indian citizens.

In January 2024 alone, 1,700 e-visas were granted to Indian travellers, reflecting strong interest even before the visa-free policy.

Boosting India-Russia Relations

This visa-free travel initiative is designed to deepen cultural and economic ties between India and Russia. The new policy will make it easier for Indian travellers to plan hassle-free trips to Russia, encouraging more tourism and strengthening the bond between the two countries.

Final Thoughts

A Smoother Travel Experience Awaits: With the potential introduction of visa-free travel in 2025, Indian tourists can look forward to a seamless journey to Russia. This initiative signifies a promising future for increased tourism and enhanced relations between India and Russia, making Moscow a top destination for Indian visitors.

Keep an eye out for further announcements as this exciting development unfolds.