Benin passport → Russia

Russia visa for citizens of Benin

Embassy / VFSStandard Tourist Visa

Citizens of Benin need a visa for Russia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Standard Tourist Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 30 days
Visa validity	30 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	10–30 days
Government fee	$50
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statement showing sufficient funds for the stay

How to apply

1
Prepare required documents
Gather all necessary documents as per the list above.
2
Complete the online visa application form
Fill out the electronic visa application on the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
3
Schedule an appointment at the Russian Embassy or Consulate
Book an appointment for biometrics and document submission.
4
Pay the visa fee
Pay the processing fee as required by the embassy (usually in USD or local currency).
5
Attend the appointment in person
Submit your application, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and submit all documents.
6
Wait for processing (up to 30 days)
Processing normally takes 10–30 working days.
7
Collect your passport with visa
Pick up your passport from the embassy or receive it via mail if option available.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
Must have at least 2 blank pages
Original passport and a copy of your previous visas and travel history
If applicable
Copy of your flight itinerary or confirmed round-trip ticket
Must show entry and exit from Russia
Hotel reservation confirmation for the entire stay in Russia
Must be booked via accredited accommodation
Previous Russian visas (if any) copies
Optional
If you have been to Russia before

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements for last 3 months)
Must show at least $50 per day of stay

Employment

For employed applicants: work certificate, leave approval, and proof of salary
Optional
Required only if employed

Supporting

Completed visa application form
Obtain and fill online at Russian MFA website
One recent color photograph (passport-size)
Must meet Russian visa photo specifications
Travel medical insurance valid in Russia
Minimum coverage amount varies; check embassy
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit and itinerary
Optional
Optional but recommended
Visa processing fee receipt
Pay at the embassy or via designated payment method
Self-addressed return envelope if applying by mail
Optional
Only if mail-in option is available
Visa support letter (visa invitation) from a Russian travel agency or sponsor
Required for tourist visa; obtain from accredited host

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: $50 per day of stay

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Salary slips

Must show sufficient funds for accommodation and daily expenses.

Good to know

Visa processing can be lengthy; apply well in advance.
All documents must be in Russian or accompanied by an authorized translation.
Incomplete applications or incorrect documents may lead to rejection.
Biometrics are mandatory – personal appearance required.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all entries before submission.

Insufficient funds evidence

Provide clear bank statements with adequate balance.

Invalid or expired passport

Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay.

Missing visa invitation letter (for tourist visa)

Secure a visa support letter from an accredited Russian travel agency.

FAQ

Do citizens of Benin need a visa for Russia?

Citizens of Benin need a visa for Russia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Standard Tourist Visa.

How long can citizens of Benin stay in Russia?

Up to 30 days.

How much does the Russia visa cost for citizens of Benin?

Government fee: $50.

How long does Russia visa processing take?

Typically 10–30 days.

What documents do citizens of Benin need for Russia?

Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity; Completed visa application form; One recent color photograph (passport-size); Original passport and a copy of your previous visas and travel history; Copy of your flight itinerary or confirmed round-trip ticket; Hotel reservation confirmation for the entire stay in Russia; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Russia?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to Russia

Nowah is an AI travel agent that books flights, hotels and eSIMs in one conversation and keeps track of your visa paperwork along the way.

Plan the trip in Nowah All visa guides