Russia to Launch Visa-Free Entry for Indian Tourists by Spring 2025

 What It Means for Travelers By spring 2025, Indian travelers may enjoy visa-free entry to Russia, making it easier to visit Moscow and explore Russian culture. This new policy, aimed at increasing tourism from India, was recently announced by Evgeny Kozlov, head of the Moscow City Tourism Committee.

Visa-Free Access for Indian Tourists This visa-free travel arrangement is expected to make Moscow more welcoming and accessible to Indian tourists, who are increasingly interested in visiting the city. Kozlov shared that this initiative will simplify travel procedures, allowing more Indian travelers to experience Moscow’s cultural and business attractions.

Growing Interest Among Indian Tourists Interest in Moscow has grown significantly among Indian tourists. Over 28,500 Indian visitors explored Moscow in the first half of 2024, a 1.5-fold increase from the same period in 2023. By the close of 2023, India emerged as a top non-CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) market for Moscow tourism, with a 26% growth in visitors compared to 2022. 

Key Travel Statistics - Indian Visitors in Early 2024: 28,500 - Year-on-Year Visitor Growth: 1.5 times more than in early 2023 - Top Non-CIS Market: India ranks as a leading country for tourism to Moscow - Significant Visitor Increase: 26% growth in Indian tourists from 2022 to 2023 Current E-Visa Option for Indians Currently, Indian travelers can apply for e-visas to Russia, which typically take about four days to process. In 2023, India was among the top five nations with the highest e-visa applications, with over 9,500 issued to Indian nationals. In January 2024 alone, 1,700 e-visas were granted, indicating strong interest even before the visa-free arrangement.

Strengthening India-Russia Relations This visa-free initiative is part of a larger effort to deepen India-Russia relations, encouraging cultural exchange and tourism. By eliminating visa requirements, Russia aims to make it simpler for Indian tourists to visit and enhance the bond between both nations.

"Russia to introduce visa-free entry for Indian tourists by spring 2025, making Moscow more accessible and boosting India-Russia tourism relations. Learn more about this travel update and what it means for Indian visitors."