Travel Vaccines and Advice for Russia

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Russia. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Russia: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tickborne encephalitis, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and tetanus.

Mosquito-borne diseases are less common in Russia than many other countries. This is due, at least in part, to the climate of many of the region. But, Japanese encephalitis is still a threat in some areas. Consult with a travel health specialist to learn if you’ll need this vaccine.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.

A visa is required for all travel to Russia. Applications take at least four weeks to be processed. Cruise ship passengers may enter Russia for up to 72 hours without a visa at some entry points.

Passports must have at least six months validity.

Russia Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Russia?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Russia and GOV.UK

Russia offers some of the most diverse landscapes and climate conditions of any country in the world. This, in part, is because of the country’s size. Research temperatures and conditions based where you will be going.

• Moscow – The capital city has cold winters and mild summers. From June through August, temperatures are usually around 21 degrees Celsius. From November through February, they can drop below -10 and even -17 degrees.
• St. Petersburg – July is the hottest month in St. Petersburg with highs around 15 degrees Celsius. January is the coldest month, with temperatures falling below freezing for the high.
• Siberia – One of the more popular destinations in Russia, Siberia offers a wide range of climates. The province hosts famously cold winters and warm, tropical summers. The first snow typically falls in early October. Rains are common throughout spring and early summer.

The most mild temperatures are along the Baltic Coast. The most varied temperatures occur in the Northern and Central regions of Russia.

According the government of the United Kingdom, terrorism remains a very real threat in Russia and throughout most of Europe. It is important to exercise caution throughout the country.

Political unrest is still a raging issue throughout many parts of Russia. Incidents have been reported of American travellers being kidnapped for ransom. Travellers must exercise caution whilst visiting the country.

Avoid travel to hot spots like Chechnya and the Chrimea as active hostilities are still ongoing and risks are high.

Popular tourist destinations like St. Petersburg and Moscow are safer to visit. But, petty and other crime is common. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid wearing anything that could make you a target.

Russia’s political climate is less open than many Western nations. Be careful what you say and where you say it to avoid confrontation.

Dargavs is located in the republic of North Ossetia in southern Russia. It lies in the middle of a mountain valley which stretches over 15 kilometres.

Hidden in the Caucasus mountains, the city is actually an ancient necropolis. Former residents buried their loved ones in this site.

Though the exact reason residents buried their family beneath the site remains unknown. The cryptic city continues to inspire myths and legends to this day.

The mysterious, abandoned area has been a muse for some of the world’s greatest poets and storytellers.

This region of southern Russia has been the site of some violent clashes in recent years. Take extra precautions if visiting this site.

As a leading global economy, Russia has many of the comforts travellers expect. But, there are still a few key items to ensure are in your bag.

• Money Belt – If you’re planning on visiting popular tourist attractions in places like Moscow or St. Petersburg, have a secure way to carry your money. These areas are typically crowded and pick-pocketing is a common occurrence. Be prepared and aware of your surroundings.
• Power Converter – Russia does not use the same power point or voltage as other regions. Bring a converter if you’re planning on using any non-European electronics.
• Copy of Passport and Visa – It is best to carry a copy of both of these items with you at all times within Russia to avoid any issues with officials. While rare, situations have been known to occur.
• Sim Card – Travellers should consider purchasing a local sim card. The phone chip is useful should you make any international calls and will help to keep roaming charges down. Not all phones can accept these chips. Purchasing a local phone is a sometimes cheap option.

If you are in Russia and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British Embassy Moscow
121099 Moscow
Smolenskaya Naberezhnaya 10
Russia
Telephone: +7 495 956 7200
Emergency Phone: +7 495 956 7200 or +7 812 320 3200 if you’re in North-West Russia
Fax: +7 495 956 7481
Email: ukinrussia@fco.gov.uk

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Ring or book online now and start travelling safely today!