The Russian government has announced an expansion of its electronic visa (e-visa) program to strengthen international relations and simplify travel procedures.
In an update on Sunday, December 8, the Russian Embassy in Kenya confirmed the inclusion of additional countries in the e-visa program, emphasizing the streamlined process for new participants. Kenya, Eswatini, and Zimbabwe are among the nations added to the eligibility list.
“The Government of Russia has expanded the list of countries whose citizens can visit the Russian Federation with a single electronic visa,” the embassy stated.
The e-visa system allows travelers to apply and receive their visas online, reducing bureaucratic barriers. It supports visits for purposes such as tourism, business, and humanitarian activities, offering a faster and more accessible alternative to traditional visa applications.
Launched on August 8, 2017, the e-visa program initially catered to citizens from 18 countries visiting the Far Eastern Federal District. Over the years, it has expanded to include more regions and nations, with the current system implemented on August 1, 2023.
Presently, citizens from 56 countries are eligible to apply for e-visas, enabling stays of up to 16 days within a 60-day validity period.
In August 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin directed further enhancements to the e-visa system, broadening its scope to attract foreign researchers and specialists.
“The Government of the Russian Federation, in collaboration with the Administration of the President of the Russian Federation, the executive bodies of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation, and the Russian Science Foundation, must develop and implement measures to attract leading researchers and specialists (including foreigners) to participate in scientific research and development conducted in the Russian Federation,” an order published on the Kremlin’s website read.
Putin emphasized that the initiative would simplify entry for foreign scientists and their families, facilitating their involvement in research and development.
“The Russian government must ensure the creation of favorable conditions for these individuals and their family members, including providing housing and simplifying the processing of documents required to enter and work in Russia, by expanding the practice of issuing electronic visas for these purposes,” the order further stated.
