Russia Tightens Visa-Free Entry Rules: New 90-Day Stay Limit Now in Effect

If you’re planning to visit Russia without a visa, there’s a key rule change you should know about. As of 2025, Russia has officially reduced the maximum stay period for most visa-free travellers to 90 days per calendar year. That’s a shift from the previous rule, which allowed 90 days within any 180 days.

This new limitation could catch frequent visitors off guard, especially those used to entering Russia multiple times a year under the old rolling window system.

Previous Visa-Free Stay Rule

Until now, most visa-free travellers could stay in Russia for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This rolling system allowed multiple short visits across six months, as long as the total stay didn’t exceed 90 days.

Who’s Affected by the New Rule?

The revised rule applies to nationals of countries that have visa-free agreements with Russia, a list that includes much of Latin America, parts of Asia, and the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States).

So, if you’re from Argentina, Thailand, Turkey, or one of the other eligible countries (full list below), you’re now limited to 90 days total within a calendar year, not spread out over multiple entries with breaks in between.

Can You Extend Your Stay?

In most cases, no, unless you meet certain conditions. Russia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs will allow visa-free travellers to apply for an extension only in exceptional circumstances, such as:

• Employment offers within Russia
• Educational programs at Russian institutions
• Close family ties with Russian citizens

If you’re eligible for one of these exceptions, you must apply before your initial 90 days expire. Overstaying could result in fines, deportation, or entry bans.

What About Bilateral Agreements?

Some countries have special bilateral agreements with Russia that might override this 90-day rule. For example, Belarusian and Kazakh citizens are subject to different arrangements due to the close integration of these states with Russia.

Before you travel, it’s wise to check with the Russian consulate or official immigration website to confirm whether your country falls under special conditions.

Full List of Visa-Free Countries for Russia

Here are the countries whose citizens can enter Russia without a visa:

Important: Visa-free status doesn’t guarantee automatic entry. Border officers can still deny entry if you don’t meet entry conditions.

New ETA for All Visa-Free Travellers

In addition to the shortened stay period, Russia has introduced a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system starting June 30, 2025. All visa-free travellers will be required to register online before arrival and obtain a QR code as proof of authorisation.

Travel Tips for Visa-Free Visitors to Russia

• Track your days carefully. With a strict 90-day-per-year rule, overstaying can easily happen if you don’t keep count.
• Book travel insurance. Russia doesn’t require it for all travellers, but it’s recommended in case of emergencies.
• Have documentation ready. Even if you’re visa-free, border officials may ask for proof of accommodation, return tickets, or financial means.
• Check your country’s status. Bilateral agreements may change, so confirm entry rules before each visit.

Final Thoughts

Russia’s new visa-free policy is a clear tightening of border control, possibly aimed at reducing long-term stays without proper visas. If you’re a frequent traveller or digital nomad relying on visa-free entry, this rule shift is something you can’t afford to ignore.

Always double-check your country’s specific rules, especially if you’ve visited Russia before under the old 180-day policy.