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Russia

A visa is mandatory, including for transit; applications must be made through the Russian consular authorities.

Reviewed by TripminuteFrench passport · tourism · short stayInformation reviewed on August 9, 2026
The 30-second summary
DocumentPassport with two adjacent blank pages, valid for at least 6 months after the requested visa expires.
EntryVisa required

A visa is mandatory, including for transit; applications must be made through the Russian consular authorities.

DurationThe stay is limited by the visa; keep the migration card and complete mandatory registration through the host.
Key warningAll travel is formally advised against because of the war, the risk of arbitrary detention and severe constraints on leaving the country.

Before you book

This block covers the standard case stated above. If your situation differs, open the consular source directly.

Document

Passport with two adjacent blank pages, valid for at least 6 months after the requested visa expires.

Entry

A visa is mandatory, including for transit; applications must be made through the Russian consular authorities.

Duration

The stay is limited by the visa; keep the migration card and complete mandatory registration through the host.

Vaccines and health

Recommendations depend on age, health, stopovers, regions and season.

Keep routine vaccinations up to date and obtain strong medical cover: healthcare can be costly or require payment in advance.
  • Check French routine vaccinations, especially measles and boosters.
  • Obtain adequate cover for hospital care and repatriation.
  • Check that every prescribed medicine may be imported.

Driving locally

An international driving permit is a translation: it never replaces your valid French licence.

Carry the French licence together with an international driving permit and check which convention the country recognises.

Service-Public · international permit

Documents to prepare

  • Required identity document and a separate copy
  • Authorisation, visa or QR code available offline
  • Return ticket and first accommodation address
  • Medical insurance and assistance number
  • Prescriptions and medicines in original packaging
  • French licence and any required supporting permit

What can change the answer

Dual nationality or residence permitTransit through border controlMinor travelling alone or with one parentWork, internship, volunteering or a longer stayEmergency, damaged or nearly expired passportControlled medication or specialist equipment

Frequently asked questions

Is a visa or authorisation required?

A visa is mandatory, including for transit; applications must be made through the Russian consular authorities.

Which vaccines should I consider?

Keep routine vaccinations up to date and obtain strong medical cover: healthcare can be costly or require payment in advance.

Is a French driving licence sufficient?

Carry the French licence together with an international driving permit and check which convention the country recognises.

When should this information be checked again?

Check once before any non-refundable purchase, then again 48 to 72 hours before departure. The destination authorities and carrier retain the final say.