Russia Visa RequirementsFor China passport holders
Chinese passport holders can apply for a Russian e-Visa, which allows a single-entry stay of up to 16 days. Russia introduced the e-Visa system for Chinese citizens, replacing the previously required embassy visit. However, given Russia's geopolitical isolation since 2022, Chinese travelers should be aware of reduced flight options and international banking limitations.
China passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to Russia.
Apply at evisa.kdmid.ru. Fill in the application form, upload a digital photo and passport scan, and pay USD 40. The e-Visa is processed within 4 to 8 calendar days. Print the confirmation and present it at the port of entry. The e-Visa cannot be extended inside Russia; if you need more time, apply for a standard tourist visa at the Russian embassy in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Shenyang.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
China to Russia: What You Need to Know
Russia and China maintain close political and economic ties, and Russian authorities are generally welcoming of Chinese visitors. The e-Visa covers tourism, business, and humanitarian purposes for a single entry of up to 16 days. It is valid at designated land, sea, and air checkpoints. If you need a longer stay or multiple entries, you will need a standard Russian visa from the embassy. Note that major Western credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) do not work in Russia; however, UnionPay cards do function at many Russian ATMs and retailers.
Practical Tips
UnionPay cards work in Russia and are the recommended payment method for Chinese travelers. Alipay is also accepted at some Russian merchants. Book direct flights via Aeroflot or Air China, as many European carriers no longer fly to Russia due to sanctions. Major tourist sights in Moscow (Red Square, Kremlin, Bolshoi Theatre) and Saint Petersburg (Hermitage, Peterhof) are popular with Chinese visitors. Download offline maps before travel as Google services are blocked in Russia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Chinese citizens apply for a Russian e-Visa?
Apply at evisa.kdmid.ru. Submit the online form with your passport details, a digital photo, and pay USD 40 by card. Processing takes 4 to 8 calendar days and the result is emailed to you. The e-Visa grants a single entry for up to 16 days and is valid at designated checkpoints.
Do UnionPay cards work in Russia?
Yes. Since major Western card networks (Visa, Mastercard) stopped operating in Russia in 2022, UnionPay has become one of the main international card options available. Many Russian ATMs and retailers accept UnionPay. Bring some cash (RUB or CNY) as a backup, especially when traveling outside major cities.
What flights connect China and Russia directly?
Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Aeroflot, and S7 Airlines operate direct routes between Chinese cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Harbin) and Russian cities (Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Vladivostok, Novosibirsk). The Trans-Siberian Railway also connects Beijing with Moscow via a multi-day scenic overland journey.
Can I stay in Russia longer than 16 days as a Chinese citizen?
The e-Visa only allows 16 days. For longer stays, apply for a standard tourist visa (up to 30 days, single or double entry) at the Russian Embassy in Beijing or Consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Shenyang. Business and private invitation visas allow longer stays of up to 90 days.