When you travel abroad, you will most likely need a visa. For citizens of American Samoa who are planning a trip to the Russian Federation, there will be a requirement for a visa. Typically, visas are obtained in-person at an official visa application office. In 2017, though, Russia released the e-Visa program.
While the e-Visa program is currently unavailable to some international travelers, you can always use the Visa Checker Tool to see when the e-Visa will be available for you.
The Russia e-Visa Program | Common Questions & Answers
Can you explain the Russian e-Visa program more?
In August 2017, Russia’s government started the e-Visa program allowing citizens from over 50 countries to apply for a visa through the internet. Russia is planning to add more countries to its list of approved foreign countries that can apply.
Once citizens of American Samoa are allowed to apply for an electronic visa for Russia, it will be released on iVisa’s website. Until then, we can help you figure out the best way to apply.
How many days can I stay in Russia once I arrive and go through customs?
You have up to 8 days to explore Russia with an e-Visa.
What documents and information are required to fill out a Russia e-Visa application?
At the bare minimum, you will need the following documents and information to fill out the online application for a Russian e-Visa:
- Valid Passport - Your passport needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the last day you plan to be in Russia. Have a couple of blank pages for stamping purposes.
- Passport-Style Photo - Colored photos only, white background, ratio of 3.5 x 4.5
- Invitation Letter - You can request an invitation letter from your Russian tour operator or the hotel or hostel you plan to stay at while in the country. In many cases, an invitation letter from a natural or legal person who currently lives in Russia is also accepted and can be used for business, study, tourism, or personal reasons. If you are lodging in different regions of Russia, you will need an invitation letter from each host of your stay.
- Travel Insurance Policy - You will need to prove you have reliable health insurance coverage for the length of your stay.
When does the e-Visa for Russia expire?
30 days from the date of issuance is when it will expire.
But, note that it is currently required to apply no less than 4 days before you travel to Russia and no more than 20 days before your intended arrival date.
Plan your trip accordingly.
What regions of Russia currently accept e-Visas?
The following regions of Russia currently allow foreign citizens to enter the borders with a valid e-Visa:
- The Far East
- Kaliningrad Oblast
- St. Petersburg
- Leningrad
You can use our Visa Checker Tool to see if you have any e-Visa options currently available to use.
Can I travel between different regions of Russia with the same e-Visa?
Most likely not. Each region of Russia requires its own separate visa.
How many times can I enter Russia with an e-Visa?
The Russian e-Visa is a single-entry visa. This means you are permitted entry into the Russian Federation one time. If you exit or leave Russia, you will not be allowed to re-enter the country without another visa.
Get a Russia Visa | Citizens of American Samoa
Applying for a visa can be difficult. That’s why at iVisa, we have made the online application process as simple as possible. You can apply for an e-Visa from the comfort of your home or wherever you are in the world.
Check back for updates, and let us know if you have any questions about your trip to Russia. We are here for you.