questions about going to Russia

[skwatra]

i'm headed to Moscow and St Petersburg this summer with some friends. we were just looking online, and it seems we have to have some sort of sponsor to get a visa.

has anyone been there? know details and how to get a visa? any other suggestions?

we're the types to see the sites during the day and party at night.

we're not using a travel agent, i was using miles for my ticket and haven't even thought about hotels yet.

thanks in advance.

[travelguy_73]

i'm headed to Moscow and St Petersburg this summer with some friends. we were just looking online, and it seems we have to have some sort of sponsor to get a visa.

has anyone been there? know details and how to get a visa? any other suggestions?

we're the types to see the sites during the day and party at night.

we're not using a travel agent, i was using miles for my ticket and haven't even thought about hotels yet.

thanks in advance.

A Russian tourist visa is valid for 30 days--no sponsorship required, except I believe you do need some sort of hotel arrangements ahead of time (they need to know you have a place to stay and a definite end date). A business visa is good for 12 months.

Russian Visa Requirements

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The following documents should be submited to the Russian Embassy or Consulate to obtain visa to enter Russia.

Russian Tourist Visa

Your original passport with at least 2 blank visa-designated pages (passport must be valid for at least 6 months after intended departure date from Russia).

Two copies of Russian visa application form, completed and signed.

ONE passport-size photo signed on the back.

If Tour Group or Cruise Passenger: Letter from tour company or cruise line confirming itinerary and including a copy of the confirmation from authorized Russian travel company which shows the reference number and confirmation number for the visa.

If Individual Travel: Confirmation of hotel arrangements from authorized Russian travel company, or directly from the Russian hotel, showing reference number and confirmation number for the visa.

Note: Effective April 15 1999 all tourist visa support should be presented on the new Russian Visa Support Confirmation Form.