Nigeria passport → Russia

Russia visa for citizens of Nigeria

Embassy / VFSVisa · Tourist (up to 30 days)

Citizens of Nigeria 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
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	10–20 days
Government fee	$160
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 stay

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents including passport, photos, invitation letter, travel insurance, bank statement, and employment letter.
2
Complete visa application form
Fill out the Russian visa application form (available at the embassy or online) and print it.
3
Book an appointment
Schedule an appointment at the Russian Embassy in Abuja or the Consulate in Lagos via their online booking system.
4
Pay visa fee
Pay the visa fee (approximately $160 USD) at the designated bank or online as instructed by the embassy.
5
Attend appointment
Visit the embassy/consulate at the scheduled time with all original documents and copies.
6
Submit biometrics
Provide fingerprints and a digital photograph at the visa application center.
7
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 10-20 working days; you may be contacted for additional information.
8
Collect passport
Return to the embassy/consulate to collect your passport with the visa sticker, or arrange courier delivery if available.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
Must have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
Completed visa application form
Download from embassy website or obtain in person
Recent passport-sized photograph
Two identical photos, 35x45mm, white background, taken within 6 months

Travel

Travel itinerary
Round-trip flight reservation or confirmed booking
Hotel reservation
Confirmation of accommodation for entire stay
Travel insurance
Valid for the entire stay in Russia, covering medical expenses and repatriation
Proof of accommodation
If staying with friends/family, a notarized invitation from the host

Financial

Bank statement
Last 3 months, showing sufficient funds (at least $50 per day of stay)
Visa fee payment receipt
Proof of payment of the visa application fee

Employment

Employment letter
From employer, stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

Invitation letter
From a Russian host or hotel, registered with the Ministry of Internal Affairs
Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Required for travelers from Nigeria
Copy of previous visas (if any)
Optional
To show travel history
Cover letter
Optional
Explaining purpose of visit and itinerary

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: $50 per day of stay

Bank statement (last 3 months)
Sponsorship letter if applicable

Bank statement must show sufficient funds to cover expenses for the entire stay.

Good to know

Visa processing times may be longer during peak seasons; apply well in advance.
Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for the visa sticker.
The invitation letter must be registered with the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs; unregistered invitations may cause rejection.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and ensure consistency with supporting documents.

Invalid or unregistered invitation letter

Obtain an invitation from a registered host or hotel and verify its validity.

Insufficient funds

Provide a bank statement showing at least $50 per day of stay.

Missing travel insurance

Purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses and repatriation for the entire stay.

FAQ

Do citizens of Nigeria need a visa for Russia?

Citizens of Nigeria 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 Nigeria stay in Russia?

Up to 30 days.

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

Government fee: $160.

How long does Russia visa processing take?

Typically 10–20 days.

What documents do citizens of Nigeria need for Russia?

Valid passport; Completed visa application form; Recent passport-sized photograph; Invitation letter; Travel itinerary; Hotel reservation; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Russia?

At least 6 months.

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