One of the largest complications for traveling from the US to Russia or from Russia to the US is the need to apply for and pay for a visa in time for your trip. The cost of this diplomatic checklist may be several hundreds of dollars and failure to show a visa can result in a country refusing you entry. In a new agreement that was ratified in early September, the United States and the Russian governments agreed to ease restrictions on their citizens who travel between the two countries. This move was welcomed by business from both countries.
Previous polices between Russia and USA
Russia and the United States have had a rocky relationship in the past decade. Accusations lobbied by Washington against Moscow in issues such as policy with Iran kept relations frosty. Previously, the fee for a visa for tourism or business cost an American one hundred dollars; this agreement lowered the fee to only twenty dollars, making it much easier for an American tourist to choose Russia as a vacation spot.
Other considerations
In addition to lowering the cost, Russia has also stipulated that
- A visa may be valid for multiple entries over the course of three years
- A formal request to gain a visa will no longer be necessary
- The visa will be approved within two weeks
By streamlining the process, it is expected that many more Americans and Russians will soon be traveling to the other nation. While it is still necessary to obtain proof of lodging prior to entering Russia, visitors may now stay in the nation for up to six months. In addition, Russians no longer need an exit visa to leave the US.
If you are in Russia and want to visit North America, hiring an immigration attorney will make the process easier than you expected. Niren and Associates Immigration Lawyers will work with you throughout the visa application process, and can make your dream of visiting North America come true.
