Can I get a Russian transit visa on arrival?

No. Russian transit visas must be obtained in advance from a Russian consulate or authorized visa center. There is no visa-on-arrival option for any Russian visa type.

Do I need a transit visa if I'm not leaving the airport?

It depends on your nationality and transit time. Most travelers need a transit visa if staying more than 24 hours, even in the international transit area. Some nationalities need one regardless of time spent.

What happens if my connecting flight is cancelled?

If you're stranded beyond your visa validity period, contact your airline immediately for rebooking assistance. You may need to pay fines or face detention if you overstay, even due to circumstances beyond your control.

Can I leave the airport with a transit visa?

Yes, but only for the specific transit period granted (usually 24-72 hours). You must have booked onward travel from Russia and cannot extend your stay or change your departure plans.

How to get a Russian transit visa

Russian transit visas require an invitation letter, completed application form, passport photos, and proof of onward travel. Apply 4-6 weeks before travel at a Russian consulate or through an authorized visa agency. Processing takes 4-20 business days depending on your nationality.

Check if you need a transit visa. Citizens of most countries need a Russian transit visa if staying in the airport transit zone for more than 24 hours or if changing airports in Moscow. Some nationalities can transit visa-free for up to 24 hours if not leaving the international transit area.
Get an invitation letter. Contact a Russian tour operator or visa agency to obtain an invitation letter. This costs $15-30 and takes 1-3 business days. You cannot apply without this document.
Complete the application form. Fill out the electronic visa application at visa.kdmid.ru. Print the completed form and sign it. Do not leave any fields blank - write 'N/A' if something doesn't apply.
Gather required documents. Collect your passport (valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages), invitation letter, one passport photo (3.5x4.5cm), proof of onward travel from Russia, and visa application fee payment.
Submit your application. Visit the Russian consulate in person or mail your documents to an authorized visa center. Include a prepaid return envelope if mailing. Some locations accept appointments only.
Pay the visa fee. Transit visa fees range from $20-160 depending on your nationality and processing speed. Americans pay $160, EU citizens typically pay $35. Cash, money order, or cashier's check only at most locations.
Wait for processing. Standard processing takes 4-10 business days. Express service (where available) takes 1-3 days for an additional fee. Track your application status online if the consulate provides this service.

Can I get a Russian transit visa on arrival?: No. Russian transit visas must be obtained in advance from a Russian consulate or authorized visa center. There is no visa-on-arrival option for any Russian visa type.
Do I need a transit visa if I'm not leaving the airport?: It depends on your nationality and transit time. Most travelers need a transit visa if staying more than 24 hours, even in the international transit area. Some nationalities need one regardless of time spent.
What happens if my connecting flight is cancelled?: If you're stranded beyond your visa validity period, contact your airline immediately for rebooking assistance. You may need to pay fines or face detention if you overstay, even due to circumstances beyond your control.
Can I leave the airport with a transit visa?: Yes, but only for the specific transit period granted (usually 24-72 hours). You must have booked onward travel from Russia and cannot extend your stay or change your departure plans.