USA entry requirements for travellers from Russia
Visa requirement summary
Russian passport holders need a US visa to visit the United States. Russia is not a member of the Visa Waiver Program, and there is no ESTA option for Russian nationals. The correct visa for tourism or visiting family is the B-1/B-2 visitor visa.
Practical note (2024–2026): US-Russia diplomatic relations have been significantly strained since 2022. US Embassy and consular operations in Russia have been severely curtailed — the US Embassy in Moscow suspended routine visa services, and US Consulates across Russia have largely ceased operations. Russian nationals who need a US visa must typically apply at a US Embassy or Consulate in a third country — Georgia, Armenia, Serbia, UAE, and Turkey have been commonly used. This adds considerable complexity and cost to the process.
Check the current state of US consular services in Russia and in third countries before making any plans. The situation has been evolving and consular capacity in third countries may also be limited.
Applying for the B-1/B-2 visa
The B-1/B-2 is a combined business/tourism visitor visa. Applications are made online and in person:
1. Complete the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov.
2. Pay the MRV fee of $185 through the local US Embassy’s payment system before booking your interview appointment. This fee is non-refundable.
3. Schedule an interview appointment at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Wait times vary from a few days to many months depending on location and season.
4. Attend the in-person interview with your passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, appointment confirmation, and supporting documents.
5. Collect your visa or receive a decision. If additional administrative processing is required, this can add several weeks.
For Russian nationals, Step 3 will require identifying a third country where a US mission is accepting appointments from Russian passport holders. This varies and changes over time — check the US Embassy website and the websites of US missions in nearby countries for current appointment availability.
Key documents to prepare
- Russian passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay
- Bank statements for three to six months showing adequate funds
- Proof of employment or income in Russia, or in your current country of residence
- Evidence of ties to Russia or your country of residence (property, family, employment contract)
- Travel itinerary
- Evidence of accommodation in the third country where you are applying (if required at that consulate)
How long you can stay
B-1/B-2 visa validity and admission periods are at the consular officer’s discretion. CBP determines your specific admission period at the US port of entry — typically up to six months for tourism.
Passport validity requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from the United States.
Proof of funds and onward travel
Bank statements showing adequate stable funds, and a confirmed return flight.
Financial access note
Russian-issued bank cards (Mir, Visa issued by Russian banks, Mastercard issued by Russian banks) are not accepted in most countries outside Russia following international sanctions. Plan to carry internationally accepted payment methods — cards issued by banks in countries where you hold residence or an international account.
Health requirements
No vaccination requirements for Russian citizens entering the United States.
Other entry requirements
You cannot work in the US on a B-1/B-2 visa. Visa conditions must be strictly observed — overstaying or working without authorisation can result in serious consequences for future travel.
FAQs
Do Russians need a visa for the USA?
Yes. Russian passport holders must apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa.
Can I apply for a US visa at the Moscow Embassy?
As of 2026, US consular visa services in Russia remain severely limited. Most Russian nationals must apply at a US Embassy or Consulate in a third country. Check the current status at the US Embassy Moscow website and US missions in Armenia, Georgia, Serbia, UAE, or Turkey.
How much does the visa cost?
$185 non-refundable MRV fee, payable through the embassy’s local payment system.
What if I am already living outside Russia?
If you reside legally in another country, apply at the US Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over your place of residence. Some missions may accept applications from third-country residents.
Is there any visa-free option for Russians?
No. Russia is not a VWP country and there is no ESTA option.