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

Requirements

• Application Form: complete the official Russian visa application online at visa.kdmid.ru, print two copies, sign both in blue or black ink
• Passport Requirements: submit your original passport valid for at least six months beyond departure with a minimum of two blank visa pages plus one copy of the bio-data page
• Photograph Specifications: provide two identical recent color photos 35×45 mm on a light uniform background, matte finish, full-face view (head 32–36 mm high), no glasses or shadows
• Visa Support Invitation: include the original invitation or tourist voucher issued through the Russian MFA or GUVNOS with telex/reference number and host details
• Travel Insurance: submit a policy certificate valid throughout your stay in Russia covering at least €30 000 for medical and repatriation expenses, listing Russia as the coverage country
• Proof of Accommodation: provide confirmed hotel reservations or a private invitation with host’s registration stamp, address and contact information
• Travel Itinerary: supply confirmed round-trip flight bookings or a detailed travel plan showing entry and exit dates matching your visa period
• Visa Fee Receipt: pay the non-refundable VFSGlobal service and consular fees in cash or card at the application center and retain the official receipt
• Biometric Data Collection: appear in person at the VFSGlobal center for fingerprinting and digital photo capture (children under 12 are exempt)
• Additional Supporting Documents: include purpose-specific papers (e.g., business letter from employer and company registration for business visas, university enrolment for student visas, notarized private invitation for private visits)

Step-by-Step Process

• Determine Your Visa Type and Invitation Letter: choose the correct visa category (tourist, business, private, e-visa) and secure a valid invitation or e-visa confirmation from a Russian travel agency, host or approved provider—this document is mandatory for your application.
• Register on VFSGlobal’s Portal: visit VFSGlobal.ru, create an account with your email, select your country and preferred VFS center, then note your login credentials and reference number for all future steps.
• Complete the Russian Visa Application Form: log in to the Russian MFA e-visa portal (or download the PDF form if required), enter accurate personal, travel and host details, then print two copies and sign both where indicated.
• Prepare Your Supporting Documents: gather these items—• Passport: original, valid at least 6 months beyond departure; • Passport copy: data page; • Photo: one 35×45 mm color photo, plain light background, head 70–80 % of frame, neutral expression; • Invitation/e-visa confirmation; • Travel insurance: covering Russia and valid for entire stay; • Flight and hotel reservations; • Proof of funds: recent bank statement.
• Book and Pay for Your VFS Appointment: in your VFSGlobal account select appointment date/time, pay the VFS service fee online or at partner bank, then download and print the payment receipt and appointment confirmation.
• Pay the Russian Consular Fee: check current rates for your visa type on the Russian embassy website, pay via bank transfer or in-person at your bank, then keep the official receipt for submission.
• Attend Your Appointment at VFSGlobal: arrive 10 minutes early with all original documents, signed application forms, photos and payment receipts—submit your packet, provide biometrics if requested, and collect your acknowledgment slip with tracking number.
• Track Your Application Status: use the VFSGlobal online tracking tool or mobile app, entering your reference and passport number to monitor progress and receive email/SMS updates.
• Collect Your Passport and Visa: once VFSGlobal notifies you, return to the center with your ID and acknowledgment slip—inspect the visa sticker for correct name spelling, dates, and visa type before leaving.
• Plan for Potential Delays and Common Pitfalls: expect 7–15 working days processing, verify all dates match your travel itinerary, avoid handwriting errors, ensure photo specs are exact to prevent rejection and re-submission.

Tips and Best Practices

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

Conclusion

In summary, the Step-by-Step RU Russia Visa via VFSGlobal 35×45 mm Application Guide equips you with everything needed for a smooth, rejection-free process:

• Photo specification: 35×45 mm size, white background, head height 32–36 mm, no shadows or reflections
• Application form: complete the Russian visa application accurately, review all fields before submission
• Fee payment: pay the correct visa fee online or at the VFSGlobal centre, retain your payment receipt
• Appointment booking: schedule your biometric appointment through the VFSGlobal portal, choose the nearest service centre
• Document checklist: passport with ≥6 months validity, confirmed visa support letter or invitation, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, photos
• Biometric submission: attend your VFSGlobal appointment punctually, submit fingerprints and photographs, hand over all required originals and copies
• Tracking and processing: use your VFSGlobal reference number to monitor status; standard processing takes 4–10 business days
• Passport collection: collect in person or arrange secure courier delivery; verify visa sticker details immediately

By following these key steps and double-checking each requirement, you’ll maximize your chances of swift approval and a hassle-free Russian entry.