All applications for Russian visas (with the exception of a transit visa) require a specific visa support document – a visa invitation, also called ‘visa support’ or ‘invitation letter’, it is the main document, required for formal visa application at the Russian Consulate. It can only be issued by an authorised agency or by an organisation authorised by Russian MFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs). The type of the required invitation depends on the purpose of your visit to Russia and the type of Russian visa you will be applying for.

It is vital to bear in mind that the validity and type of Russian visa you are issued should be strictly adhered to. Once you are in Russia, you can neither change your visa status (e.g. from tourist to business, business to educational, or vice versa), nor extend the validity of your visa (except in an emergency). In order to do so, you will have to leave the country and apply for a new visa.