Russia passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of Russia

Embassy / VFSB1/B2 Visitor Visa

Citizens of Russia need a visa for the United States 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 · B1/B2 Visitor Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Entries	Multiple entry
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements or pay stubs showing sufficient funds for the trip.

How to apply

1
Complete DS-160 form online
Fill out the Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160) on the Consular Electronic Application Center website and print the confirmation page.
2
Pay the visa application fee
Pay the MRV fee (currently $160) through the designated payment system and retain the receipt.
3
Schedule a visa interview
Using the fee receipt number, schedule an interview appointment at the US Embassy/Consulate in Russia (Moscow, Saint Petersburg, or Vladivostok).
4
Prepare required documents
Gather all supporting documents including passport, photo, financial evidence, employment letter, and itinerary.
5
Attend the visa interview
Arrive at the embassy/consulate on time with all documents. Biometrics (fingerprints) will be taken at this step.
6
Wait for processing
After the interview, the visa officer may approve, refuse, or require administrative processing. Standard processing takes a few days to weeks.
7
Receive passport with visa
If approved, the passport with the visa will be returned via courier or pick-up as chosen during application.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay)
Must have blank visa pages.
Photo (2x2 inches, recent, white background)
Must meet US visa photo requirements.

Travel

Travel itinerary
Optional
Details of flight reservations and accommodation.

Financial

Visa fee receipt (MRV fee receipt)
Proof of payment of the visa application fee.
Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Demonstrate sufficient funds for the trip.
Pay stubs (recent 3 months)
Optional
Support employment income.
Tax returns (last 1-2 years)
Optional
Optional but can support financial status.

Employment

Proof of employment (e.g., employment letter)
Letter stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

DS-160 confirmation page
Online nonimmigrant visa application form.
Appointment confirmation letter
Shows scheduled interview date.
Proof of ties to home country (e.g., property deed, family documents)
Optional
To demonstrate intention to return.
Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
Optional
From the host in the US, with their status details.
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Optional
For accompanying spouse.

Proof of funds

Bank statements
Pay stubs
Tax returns

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover travel and stay in the US.

Good to know

Residents of Chukotka Autonomous Okrug who are indigenous and have relatives in Alaska may be exempt from visa requirements for visits to Alaska.
Visa approval is not guaranteed; all applicants must satisfy the consular officer of their intent to return.
Processing times can vary significantly; apply well in advance of planned travel.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to home country (risk of overstaying)

Provide strong evidence of employment, property, and family obligations in Russia.

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all forms and supporting documents before the interview.

Insufficient funds for the trip

Show bank statements and proof of income that cover all anticipated expenses.

Previous visa violations or criminal record

Be honest about any prior issues; provide any necessary legal documentation.

FAQ

Do citizens of Russia need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of Russia need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B1/B2 Visitor Visa.

What documents do citizens of Russia need for the United States?

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay); DS-160 confirmation page; Appointment confirmation letter; Visa fee receipt (MRV fee receipt); Photo (2x2 inches, recent, white background); Proof of employment (e.g., employment letter); and 7 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to the United States

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