---
title: Russia visa for citizens of Nigeria
description: "Citizens of Nigeria need a visa for Russia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 30 days. Fee: $160. Processing: 10–20 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/russia/nigeria
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Russia visa for citizens of Nigeria

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

- **Valid passport** (Identity): Must have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
- **Completed visa application form** (Identity): Download from embassy website or obtain in person
- **Recent passport-sized photograph** (Identity): Two identical photos, 35x45mm, white background, taken within 6 months
- **Invitation letter** (Supporting): From a Russian host or hotel, registered with the Ministry of Internal Affairs
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel): Round-trip flight reservation or confirmed booking
- **Hotel reservation** (Travel): Confirmation of accommodation for entire stay
- **Travel insurance** (Travel): Valid for the entire stay in Russia, covering medical expenses and repatriation
- **Bank statement** (Financial): Last 3 months, showing sufficient funds (at least $50 per day of stay)
- **Employment letter** (Employment): From employer, stating position, salary, and approved leave
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): If staying with friends/family, a notarized invitation from the host
- **Visa fee payment receipt** (Financial): Proof of payment of the visa application fee
- **Yellow fever vaccination certificate** (Supporting): Required for travelers from Nigeria
- **Copy of previous visas (if any)** (Supporting, optional): To show travel history
- **Cover letter** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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.

## More

- [Russia visa for every passport](/visa/russia)
- [Every destination for Nigeria passport holders](/visa/passport/nigeria)