QUESTION: What is an electronic visa (e-visa)?

An electronic visa, or e-visa, is a modern and convenient format for obtaining permission to enter a foreign state completely online, without the need to personally visit a consulate, embassy, or visa center. The entire registration process takes place via the internet using a computer or mobile phone, which significantly saves the tourist's time and money, eliminating red tape.

The procedure for obtaining an electronic visa is extremely simple and consists of standard actions. You go to the official portal of the migration service of the desired country, carefully fill out the electronic application form in English or the national language, upload a digital photograph of the established format and a clear scanned spread of your foreign passport, and then make a secure payment for the visa fee with a bank card.

After successful processing of your request, the ready electronic visa arrives at your email address in PDF document format. It is extremely vital to carefully check all personal data and print the received file on paper, as the printout must be presented to border control officers along with your foreign passport upon arrival at the destination airport.

Today, many popular tourist destinations offer Russian citizens the processing of electronic visas, including countries such as Turkey, India, Sri Lanka, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Georgia, and some other states. Manufacturing times for documents range from a few hours to seven working days. When submitting an application, beware of numerous fraudulent intermediary websites and use exclusively official state resources of specialized ministries.