Do Germany passport holders need a visa to visit RU?
German ordinary passport holders need a visa for Russia, but can apply for the unified electronic visa (e-visa) online for short tourist stays. It costs about USD 52, is processed within 4 calendar days, is valid for 120 days, and allows a single entry with a stay of up to 30 days. Note: the German Federal Foreign Office strongly advises against all travel to Russia. Russia is not a visa-free destination for German citizens and is not part of the Schengen area, so no 90/180 rule or ETIAS applies. For a short tourist visit, the most practical route is the Russian unified e-visa, available entirely online via the official MFA portal evisa.kdmid.ru. Germany is one of the 64 eligible nationalities. The e-visa is single-entry, valid for 120 days from issue, and permits a stay of up to 30 days from the date of entry. The consular fee is approximately USD 52 (free for children under 6), and applications are decided within no more than 4 calendar days. No invitation letter or hotel booking is required, but a digital photo, a scan of the passport bio-page, and (per official requirements) travel medical insurance valid in Russia are needed. The e-visa is only valid at designated border crossing points (major airports such as Moscow Sheremetyevo/Domodedovo/Vnukovo and St Petersburg Pulkovo, plus select sea, rail, and road crossings). Travelers needing longer stays, multiple entries, or entry at non-designated crossings must obtain a traditional visa with an invitation (visa support/voucher) through a Russian consulate or visa center in Germany. Critically, as of 2024 the German Federal Foreign Office issued a strengthened advisory strongly warning against any travel to Russia due to the security situation, very limited consular assistance, flight disruptions, and sanctions-related payment difficulties. Travelers should weigh this advisory seriously before booking.
VISA REQUIREDTOURISMSINGLE ENTRYLast verified 2026-05-30
For guidance only — visa rules change with little notice. Always confirm directly with the destination's embassy or foreign ministry before booking non-refundable travel. Information here applies to ordinary (non-diplomatic) passports unless noted.
Germany (PR)Living in Germany as a permanent resident? See PR-specific guidance→