Russia has quietly opened a new long-term business visa route for select foreign nationals, including Indians, and it could make repeat travel to the country far easier for entrepreneurs, investors, tech specialists, and business delegates.

The announcement came directly from the Embassy of Russia in India via its official social media account, confirming that foreign citizens and stateless persons recognised as “persons of interest”, along with their family members, can now apply for a one-year multiple-entry business visa to Russia.

📣 Dear friends,

We are pleased to announce that foreign citizens and stateless persons, who were acknowledged as persons of interest, as well as their family members may apply for a one year multiple-entry business visas to <a href=" pic.twitter.com/IPYLlKHVMO

— Russia in India 🇷🇺 (@RusEmbIndia) <a href=" 25, 2026

What Is “Person of Interest” Status?

The status gives selected foreigners easier access to live and work in Russia. Benefits include:

• Faster access to residence permits
• No quota needed for temporary residency
• No Russian language test required
• Permission to work without extra permits
• Benefits extended to family members
• Help with relocation and settling in Russia

In simple terms, Russia is creating a special immigration route for foreigners it wants to attract.

Who Could Qualify?

Russian authorities have not released a detailed eligibility list yet. Based on existing Russian business visa practices, applicants will likely still need:

• A valid passport
• Invitation or sponsorship from a Russian entity
• Supporting business documents
• Visa application forms and photographs
• Proof of travel plans

Indian travellers should also expect scrutiny around the purpose of the visit and the sponsoring organisation. Russia’s business visa system traditionally relies heavily on invitation letters approved by Russian authorities.

The Requirements

Applying for the new one-year multiple-entry visa requires specific documentation. The Russian Consulate accepts applications supported by these official items:

1. Official Visa Invitation

An original paper or electronic invitation issued by the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) or a direct telex from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

2. Valid Passport

The original document must have at least two blank pages and remain valid for six months beyond the requested visa expiry date.

3. Online Application Form

Completed via the official consular portal, printed, and signed, with one recent passport-sized photograph glued to the form.

4. Health Insurance

A policy providing a minimum of €30,000 in medical coverage valid inside the Russian Federation.

Stay Limits & Rules

Holding a one-year multi-entry visa does not equate to a residency permit. The Russian Migration Law enforces a strict cap on your physical stay.

• The 90/180 Rule: You can remain in the country for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day window.
• Continuous Stay: Once you hit the 90-day limit, you must exit the country.
• Non-Extendable: This business visa cannot be extended from within Russia.

Processing & Insider Insight

Moscow is clearly using its visa policy to keep its economic channels open with friendly nations amid broader geopolitical shifts. This targeted policy bypasses the general public and focuses strictly on high-value commercial entities.

• Standard Timeline: Consular processing for this specific multi-entry documentation typically takes 10 to 12 working days.
• Express Options: Urgent processing is available for an extra fee, reducing the wait time to 3 working days.

Flights From India to Russia

Despite geopolitical tensions, air connectivity between India and Russia remains active. Travellers can currently find direct or one-stop options from hubs like:

• New Delhi
• Mumbai
• Bengaluru

Most routes connect to cities, including:

• Moscow
• Saint Petersburg

Indian nationals still require a visa before travelling to Russia. Russia does not currently offer a visa-on-arrival for Indian passport holders.

What Travellers Should Watch Closely

The biggest unanswered question is how Russia plans to identify and approve these “persons of interest”.

If Moscow keeps the criteria broad, this could become a practical fast-track option for Indian business travellers. If the category stays narrow or politically filtered, access may remain limited to selected sectors and strategic partnerships.

Either way, Russia is signalling that it wants more repeat visitors tied to trade and investment, not just tourists.

Take

We think this visa shift makes practical sense for Indian business travellers who visit Russia regularly. The real value will depend on how openly and consistently Russia applies the “persons of interest” category.

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