Step-by-Step RU Russia visa via VFSGlobal 35x45 mm Application Guide

Requirements

• Completed Visa Application Form: fill out the official Russia visa application in English or Russian, print it single-sided on A4, sign and date in blue or black ink
• Valid Passport: original passport with at least two blank visa pages and a minimum of six months’ validity beyond your intended departure from Russia
• 35×45 mm Photographs: two identical recent color photos, full-face view, white background, no shadows, head centered, no headwear (unless for religious reasons)
• Official Visa Invitation (Visa Support): original invitation issued by the Russian Ministry of Interior or authorized tour operator, showing your full name, passport details and dates of stay
• Proof of Accommodation: hotel confirmation or private accommodation invitation specifying your name, full address in Russia and dates of stay matching the visa invitation
• Travel Itinerary: flight reservation or e-ticket showing entry and exit dates consistent with your visa application period
• Travel Medical Insurance: policy valid in Russia for the entire visa period, with minimum coverage of €30 000 (or USD 50 000) for medical emergencies
• Proof of Financial Means: recent bank statements (last three months) or salary slips demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your stay
• Visa Fee Payment: exact fee paid to VFS Global (check current rates online), with proof of payment (receipt) to attach to your application
• VFS Global Appointment Confirmation: printed confirmation of your scheduled submission date and time at the VFS Global center
• Biometric Data Submission: provide fingerprints and digital photograph at the VFS Global center (waived only for children under 12 and seniors over 75)
• Additional Documents for Special Cases: for minors – notarized parental consent and birth certificate; for business applicants – employer letter and company registration; for students – enrollment proof or student ID

Step-by-Step Process

Content about Step-by-Step RU Russia visa via VFSGlobal 35x45 mm Application Guide - process

Tips and Best Practices

• Background precision: use a plain light gray or white background free of shadows and textures because uneven or colored backdrops lead to automatic rejection during VFSGlobal’s automated checks
• Head size & positioning: ensure your head measures 32–36 mm from chin to crown and is centered with 3 mm top margin because misaligned or incorrectly sized heads fail biometric standards
• Expression neutrality: maintain a neutral expression with closed mouth and open eyes because smiling or frowning disrupts facial recognition software and delays visa processing
• Eyewear & accessories: remove tinted glasses, hats, and scarves (unless for religious reasons) because reflections, shadows, or concealed features trigger photo refusal
• Digital upload specs: submit a 35×45 mm JPEG at 600 dpi under 240 KB with no compression artifacts because incorrect file format or size causes system errors and prolongs your application timeline

Conclusion

By following this guide you’ll navigate the RU Russia visa application via VFSGlobal smoothly and avoid costly delays.

Key Application Steps:

• Complete the online visa form accurately at Russia’s consular portal
• Gather required documents: passport, invitation letter, travel itinerary, proof of funds
• Pay the VFSGlobal service and consular fees using available payment methods
• Schedule and attend your VFSGlobal appointment with all originals and copies
• Track your application online and collect your passport once the visa is issued

Essential Photo Specifications:

• Dimensions: 35 × 45 mm (width × height)
• Head size: 32–36 mm from chin to top of head
• Background: plain white or light grey, no shadows
• Expression: neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and visible
• Accessories: no glasses frames or headwear (unless for religious reasons)

Adhering strictly to each step and photo requirement ensures your Russia visa application via VFSGlobal is processed without hiccups.