Russia Visa RequirementsFor Iran passport holders
Iranian passport holders require a visa to enter Russia, applied for through the Russian Embassy in Tehran. The fee is approximately USD $160 and allows stays of up to 30 days.
Iran passport holders require a visa to enter Russia.
To apply for a Russian tourist visa from Iran: 1) Book a hotel or obtain a tourist voucher and invitation letter from a Russian licensed travel agency. This is required for a tourist visa. 2) Complete the Russian visa application form online at the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-Visa portal or through the Russian Embassy website. 3) Book an appointment at the Russian Embassy in Tehran (iran.mid.ru). 4) Pay the visa fee of approximately USD $160 (consular fee; varies by visa type and processing speed). 5) Submit required documents: valid passport with at least 6 months validity and two blank pages, two passport photos (35x45mm), completed application form, travel insurance covering Russia for the entire stay, tourist voucher from a Russian travel agency confirming hotel bookings, and confirmation of return flight. 6) Processing takes approximately 5-10 business days. 7) Collect passport with visa sticker from the embassy.
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
Iran to Russia: What You Need to Know
Despite the close diplomatic and strategic relationship between Iran and Russia, particularly in recent years through their cooperation in Syria and under shared sanctions pressure from Western nations, Iranian nationals are still required to obtain a visa to enter Russia. The Russian Embassy in Tehran processes visa applications for Iranian nationals.
Russia and Iran signed a simplified visa agreement and have discussed deeper cooperation, but as of 2026 a visa is still required for Iranian passport holders. Russia is a major destination for Iranian tourists interested in Moscow's Red Square and Kremlin, Saint Petersburg's imperial palaces, Trans-Siberian rail journeys, and winter sports in Sochi.
Russian visa processing for Iranians is generally accessible given the close bilateral relationship. Business, tourist, and private visas are available. Applicants need an official invitation or tourist voucher from a licensed Russian travel agency to support the application.
Practical Tips
A tourist voucher from a Russian licensed travel agency is a non-negotiable part of the Russian tourist visa application. Many Iranian travel agencies specializing in Russia can arrange this. Russia uses the Russian Ruble (RUB); due to international sanctions, some international cards may not work in Russia, so plan to carry cash or use local alternatives. The Moscow Metro is one of the most beautiful and efficient in the world. Saint Petersburg is best visited in June during White Nights when the sky barely darkens. Iran Air and Mahan Air operate flights between Tehran and Moscow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Iranian passport holders need a visa for Russia?
Yes, despite close diplomatic relations between Iran and Russia, Iranian nationals still require a visa to enter Russia. The visa is applied for at the Russian Embassy in Tehran.
How much does a Russian visa cost for Iranians?
The Russian visa fee is approximately USD $160. The exact fee may vary depending on visa type, processing speed, and current fee schedules. Confirm with the Russian Embassy before applying.
Do Iranians need an invitation letter to visit Russia?
Yes. For a tourist visa, you need a tourist voucher and invitation letter from a licensed Russian travel agency confirming your hotel bookings. This is a mandatory requirement. Many Iranian travel agencies that specialize in Russia tours can arrange this.
How long can Iranians stay in Russia on a tourist visa?
A standard Russian tourist visa allows stays of up to 30 days. The validity of the visa matches the dates of your hotel bookings as stated in the tourist voucher.