We just received notification that the consulate fees have been increased, effective March 4. For single-entry this is a hike of $70, for double, only $16, and for the multi, it is actually lower now. It’s a good time to get your multiple-entry visa!
It seems as well that there will no longer be any “official” rush or emergency processing option, meaning no set price to just order it that way. Instead you will need to provide proof of necessity – flight itinerary, possibly an explanatory letter.
These changes are coming as Russia has lost two consulates in the US due to diplomatic rows but is still expecting another bumper crop of tourists, except this year, there is no World Cup ticket pass to bypass the visa for many. Come about mid-April, we expect the consultes to be spread a bit thin on issuing visas and for delays to begin occuring.
Make sure to plan ahead if you are planning either a trip for a group of students, or if you are looking to get your own visa for research. Contact us with any questions on these specific issues. You can find out more about Russian visas on our site here.
