Russia Opens Doors For Indian Travellers: No Tourist Visa Required

Indian passport holders have a reason to celebrate as Russia is gearing up to introduce visa-free travel for Indian citizens . The new system is expected to be implemented by the spring of 2025, making it easier for Indians to explore Russia without the hassle of obtaining a visa.

Visa-Free Entry: A Step Closer

Reports indicate that Russia and India have been in discussions to finalize a bilateral agreement that will allow visa-free group tourist exchanges. This initiative aims to strengthen tourism and cultural ties between the two nations.

Currently, Indian citizens need to obtain a visa issued by the Russian Embassy or Consulate to enter, stay, and exit the Russian Federation. The process, often lengthy, requires significant preparation and documentation. However, with the proposed changes, travel barriers will be significantly reduced.

E-Visa System: A Milestone in Simplified Travel

In August 2023, Russia introduced an e-visa system for Indian travelers, allowing them to apply for a visa online. The e-visa process, which takes about four days, has already facilitated easier travel. In fact, India ranked among the top five countries for the number of e-visas issued last year, with 9,500 e-visas granted to Indian travelers.

Most Indian tourists visiting Russia do so for business or official purposes. Notably, Moscow recorded a 26% increase in Indian visitors in 2023, with 60,000 Indians traveling to the city that year.

Visa-Free Entry: A Successful Model

Russia currently offers visa-free entry to travelers from China and Iran under its tourist exchange program. The success of this initiative has encouraged Moscow to expand the program to include India. This move is expected to boost tourism further, especially as India was ranked third for business tourism to non-CIS countries earlier this year, with 1,700 e-visas issued in the first quarter of 2024 alone.

Indian Passport Strength and Current Privileges

Indian passport holders currently enjoy visa-free access to 62 countries, including popular destinations such as Indonesia, Maldives, and Thailand. According to the Henley Passport Index 2024, the Indian passport is ranked 82nd globally. The index evaluates the power of passports based on the number of countries their holders can enter visa-free or with visa-on-arrival privileges.

Looking Ahead

The proposed visa-free entry agreement between India and Russia holds great promise for strengthening bilateral ties and promoting tourism. With the introduction of this system in 2025, Indian travelers will have even more opportunities to explore the rich cultural and historical offerings of Russia without the added hassle of visa applications.

For now, Indian citizens can continue to take advantage of the e-visa system while looking forward to the simplified travel experience that the visa-free initiative will bring in the near future.