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Russia Changes Visa Application Process for Kenya and 2 African countries

The government of Russia has introduced a major travel development for Kenyans by changing its visa application system. 

In a statement on Sunday, December 8, the Russian Embassy to Kenya announced that it had introduced a major travel development for Kenyans by expanding its e-visa program.

This means that Kenyans can now have faster and easier access to Russia, by applying for a single-entry electronic visa.

Previously, applying for a Russian visa required lengthy processes, including visits to the embassy. However, the e-visa eliminates these hurdles by allowing Kenyans to apply online.

A banner explaining the Russia E-Visa program.
A banner explaining the Russia E-Visa program. PHOTO/Lidenz.com

Also Read: Kenya Ranked Among Bottom African Countries in Visa Openness After Ruto’s Action


Other Countries on the Russia List

Kenya is now among the select group of African nations, including Eswatini and Zimbabwe, who are eligible for the e-Visa program.

The entire process, which includes submitting an application, uploading documents, and paying a fee, can now be completed in just a few days. The e-visa permits a 16-day stay in Russia, making it ideal for tourism, business, or cultural visits.

“The Government of Russia has expanded the list of countries whose citizens can visit the Russian Federation with a single electronic visa. The list now includes the following African countries, Kenya, Eswatini and Zimbabwe.”

Currently, travellers holding an electronic visa (e-Visa) can enter Russia for tourism, business, and private visits, or to attend cultural, economic, scientific, social, political, or sporting events.


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Also Read: Russia Issues Statement on Kenyan Mission in Haiti After Rejecting US Proposal


Vladimir Putin Requests the Extension

In January, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin requested the extension of the e-visa for various countries, arguing that it would attract leading researchers and specialists

“The Government of the Russian Federation, in collaboration with the Administration of the President of the Russian Federation, the executive bodies of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation, and the Russian Science Foundation,

“Must develop and implement measures to attract leading researchers and specialists (including foreigners) to participate in scientific research and development conducted in the Russian Federation,” he noted in a statement. 

For over a year, travellers from 56 countries and territories have been able to apply for an e-Visa on the evisa.kdmid.ru portal to visit Russia.

There are 98 checkpoints available for entering Russia with an e-Visa, including major international airports in the country, such as Moscow (Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo, and Zhukovsky), St. Petersburg (Pulkovo), Novosibirsk (Tolmachevo), and Sochi.

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Citizens holding the Kenyan passports
Citizens holding the Kenyan passport. PHOTO/UGC

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Joy Kwama

Mercy Joy Kwama is a News Reporter at The Kenya Times who is dedicated to the art of storytelling and truth-telling and changing narratives. She has covered diverse topics including politics, social justice, environmental issues, climate change, and entertainment. Mercy is particularly driven to amplify the voices of African communities and challenge the prevailing status quo. She is a graduate of Riara University with a degree in Communications and Multimedia Journalism and is well-equipped to navigate the complex landscape of news reporting. In her spare time, Mercy likes to pick up new skills including crocheting, gardening, dance, reading, and music. She can be reached at joy.kwama@thekenyatimes.com

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