Private visas for close relatives of Russian citizens

The rule for issuing private visas for close relatives of Russian citizens was amended from September 1, 2021. The term “close relatives” has been significantly expanded. Now it includes spouse, parents (adoptive parents), children (adopted), spouses of children, full and step-brothers and sisters, grandparents, grandchildren. 

A private visa is issued on the decision of the head of a diplomatic mission or a consular office of the Russian Federation, upon a written application from a Russian citizen or a written application of the second parent of a minor Russian citizen. The application must include the complete data of the applicant and the invited person, as well as the intended route of travel and residence in Russia.

At the same time, such an application can now be certified in the Russian Federation by a notary and then sent to a foreign relative for submission in original. It is also necessary to present all documents confirming the relationship (taking into account a possible change in surname). These documents must be submitted in its original form or their copies should be certified by a Russian notary.

Also, a full set of documents for the Private visa (type «OЧ») must be submitted to the Russian consulate.