Russian Visas

It is important that you obtain the appropriate visas before you embark on your Trans-Siberian trip. Countries regulations change regularly. Please visit Kumuka's world guide for visa information.

'The Russia Experience', based in London can organise your Russian and Mongolian visas for you (and Chinese, for an additional fee) and obtain the support document needed from Russia for this. They have years of experience in organising visas specifically for these journeys. Russian visas by law must be date and destination specific, and allow no flexibility. Your visa will cover you for the exact itinerary you will be following, including days off and on the train, and exact dates you will be entering and exiting Russia. Severe fines will be imposed by Russian authorities for any diversions from the itinerary that your visa was issued against, or unscheduled extra activities, and also creates problematic consequences for your onward journey.

If you are entering Russia via 'surface' transportation, Western borders can be more than a days ride from the main cities, so entry dates for your visa will need to be fixed accordingly. Please make sure you advise if this applies to you. This will need to be evidenced with travel documentation.

When booking your Trans-Siberian journey, you must allow enough time to obtain your visa(s) and also keep in mind that visas can only be applied for 90 days in advance of your journey. You will also need to be without your passport for approximately one month while your visa(s) are processed. Please note that visa applications within 6 weeks of departure will be subject to 'express' fees.

If you choose to organise your visas independently, 'The Russia Experience' are still able to obtain your invitation document from Russia which you will require to support your visa application. This will be organised for you upon receipt of full payment for the tour. You will also be required to sign a disclaimer that you are taking full responsibility for obtaining the appropriate visas for your journey and that Kumuka, or 'The Russia Experience' bear no liability for any failure of the client to obtain the correct visa.

Please note: It is a requirement from the Russian Consulate that you have travel insurance to obtain a visa. You will need to organise your insurance prior to applying for your visa, and provide proof of your policy.

Each client is solely responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before joining a tour. Kumuka does not accept responsibility for changes in regulations or requirements for visas. The information provided is given in good faith.