---
title: Russia visa for citizens of Mali
description: Citizens of Mali need a visa for Russia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 30 days. Documents checklist and application steps.
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/russia/mali
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Russia visa for citizens of Mali

Citizens of Mali 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 · Visa · Tourist (up to 30 days)
- **How to apply:** In-person at an embassy or visa center
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 30 days
- **Entries:** Single entry
- **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. **Gather required documents** — Collect all necessary documents as per the checklist
2. **Complete online visa application** — Fill the Russian visa application form on the official website and print it
3. **Schedule an appointment** — Book an appointment at the Russian Embassy or Visa Application Centre in Bamako
4. **Attend appointment in person** — Submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and pay the visa fee
5. **Wait for processing** — Processing typically takes 7-10 business days, but may vary
6. **Collect passport** — Return to the embassy/centre to collect your passport with the visa

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport with at least two blank pages** (Identity): Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
- **Completed visa application form** (Identity): Form must be filled online and printed
- **Recent passport-sized photograph** (Identity): Must meet Russian visa photo requirements
- **Visa support letter (invitation)** (Supporting): Issued by a Russian travel agency or host, registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- **Travel itinerary or flight reservation** (Travel): Round-trip or onward ticket
- **Hotel booking confirmation or accommodation proof** (Travel): Must cover entire stay
- **Travel medical insurance** (Travel): Coverage of at least €30,000 for the entire Schengen area (Russia requires similar)
- **Proof of sufficient funds** (Financial): Bank statements for last 3 months
- **Yellow fever vaccination certificate** (Supporting, optional): Required if traveling from an endemic country
- **Employment letter or proof of ties to home country** (Employment, optional): May be requested to demonstrate return intention

## Proof of funds

- Bank statements
- Sponsorship letter

Sufficient funds to cover accommodation and expenses

## Good to know

- Visa application must be submitted in person; no third-party submissions allowed.
- Biometrics are mandatory for all applicants aged 12 and above.
- Visa support letter must be obtained from a Russian host or authorized travel agency.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Incomplete or incorrect application form** — Double-check all entries and ensure consistency with supporting documents
- **Insufficient funds or unclear source of funds** — Provide clear bank statements and a sponsorship letter if applicable
- **Invalid or expired passport** — Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
- **Missing visa support letter** — Obtain a valid invitation from a Russian host or travel agency before applying

## FAQs

### Do citizens of Mali need a visa for Russia?

Citizens of Mali need a visa for Russia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visa · Tourist (up to 30 days).

### How long can citizens of Mali stay in Russia?

Up to 30 days.

### What documents do citizens of Mali need for Russia?

Valid passport with at least two blank pages; Completed visa application form; Recent passport-sized photograph; Visa support letter (invitation); Travel itinerary or flight reservation; Hotel booking confirmation or accommodation proof; and 4 more.

### How long must my passport be valid for Russia?

At least 6 months.

## More

- [Russia visa for every passport](/visa/russia)
- [Every destination for Mali passport holders](/visa/passport/mali)