Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
\nFCDO advises against all travel to Russia due to the risks and threats from its continuing invasion of Ukraine, including:
\n\nThere is an increased risk of British nationals being detained in Russia, including if the Russian authorities suspect you of engaging in or supporting activities against Russian law, even if activities took place outside Russia. See ‘Risk of arrest and detention’ on ‘Safety and security’.
\n\nRussia has a track record of targeting foreign nationals and holding them in detention as leverage over other countries. FCDO’s ability to assist you in these circumstances is extremely limited.
\n\nThere is also a high likelihood terrorists will try to carry out attacks, including in major cities. See ‘Safety and security’.
\n\nOngoing drone attacks and associated Russian air-defence activity may increase risks to civilian aviation and can lead to short-notice restrictions on airspace use and airport operations. See ‘Safety and security’
\n\nThe British Embassy in Moscow and British Consulate in Ekaterinburg are open, but the situation could change at short notice.
\n\nIn-person UK government support in Russia is limited. It is very limited in parts of Russia because of the security situation and the size of the country, particularly in the North Caucasus.
\n\nIf you need support, call our 24-hour helpline +7 495 956 7200 and select the option for consular services for British nationals.
\n\nContact the Russian emergency services on 112.
\n\nIf you hold both British and Russian nationality, Russian authorities will treat you as a Russian citizen. This limits the consular assistance the UK government can provide. If you are arrested or detained, Russian authorities are unlikely to allow UK consular staff to visit or assist you.
\n\nRussian nationals are required to notify Russian authorities of any second nationality, including British, within 60 days of acquiring that nationality, or within 60 days of returning to Russia if the British/ foreign nationality was obtained outside of Russia. Parents are responsible for notification on behalf of their children aged under 18. Failure to comply can result in criminal liability. Your British passport may be confiscated by the Russian authorities and not returned. Penalties can include a fine of up to 200,000 Russian rubles (or up to one year of income) and/or compulsory work for up to 400 hours.
\n\nRussia operates a conscription-based military system. Men aged 18 to 30 with Russian citizenship may be called up for two-year compulsory military service. Conscription campaigns continue throughout the year.
\n\nRussian law prevents eligible individuals from leaving Russia once their draft notice appears on the federal electronic draft register.
\n\nIf you receive a conscription notice via your account on the Russian State Services portal, you will be prohibited from leaving Russia. Failure to report to the conscription point within seven days of receiving the notice may result in penalties, restrictions on your rights, or detention.
\n\nIn addition to regular conscription, Russia has declared a partial mobilisation. Military recruitment is ongoing, and anyone with Russian citizenship may be drafted.
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nFCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThis information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK who choose to travel against Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advice. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Russia’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in Russia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Russian Embassy or a consulate in the UK.
\n\nForeigners entering Russia will be required to register, on arrival, their biometric details such as fingerprints and photographs.
\n\nTo enter Russia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date your visa expires.
\n\nYou cannot enter Russia using a visa in an expired passport, even if you’re also carrying a new, valid passport. You will need to apply for a new visa or visa transfer.
\n\nSign your passport before you travel if it was issued after January 2017. Some British nationals have been denied entry for not signing their passports.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
\n\nChildren under 18 years old must carry a notarised travel permission from one of their parents or legal guardians if they’re travelling out of Russia without their parent or legal guardian.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nIf you have dual British-Russian nationality and travel to Russia to renew your Russian passport, it may take up to 4 months to get your new passport. You will not be able to leave Russia on your British passport if you entered Russia on your Russian passport. You will have to stay in Russia until your new Russian passport is issued.
\n\nChildren born outside of Russia and added to their parents’ Russian passports may need their own passport to leave Russia. Check with the Russian Embassy in the UK before you travel.
\n\nSee Warnings and insurance page for information about severely limited UK government support and compulsory military service for British-Russian dual nationals.
\n\nYou must get a visa before you travel.
\n\nSee the Russia Visa Centre for further information on how to apply for a visa, including processing time and fast track services.
\n\nIf you live in the UK and are aged 12 or over, you must go to a visa application centre in London, Manchester or Edinburgh to submit biometric data (fingerprints).
\n\nIf you’re a British national with a Russian national in your immediate family, you can apply for a multi-entry private visa for up to one year. Check what you need for your stay with the Russian Embassy in the UK.
\n\nThe Russian authorities strictly enforce visa and immigration laws. Before you travel, check:
\n\nIf you overstay your visa, you may face fines, court hearings, deportation or a ban from re-entry.
\n\nForeign nationals who have exceeded the terms of their legal stay in Russia and don’t have the necessary permits or visa will be entered on an official surveillance register, deported from Russia, and banned from re-entering.
\n\nYou may not be able to exit Russia if you have any unpaid debts, fines or penalties in Russia. Check if you have any outstanding payments using the Russia State Bailiff’s Services portal (in Russian) or Russian State Services portal (in Russian). You may not be able to access these portals from outside of Russia.
\n\nYou must sign an immigration card at passport control every time you enter Russia.
\n\nImmigration officials keep one half. They return the other half to you. You must keep it and show it at passport control when you leave Russia, or your departure could be delayed.
\n\nYou will need to show your immigration card when you exchange money or check into your accommodation.
\n\nThere have been intensive security checks on foreign nationals at the Russian border. Some British and dual British-Russian nationals have been:
\n\nstopped and questioned about political views or contacts with Ukraine or Ukrainians
\nhad fingerprints and DNA swabs taken
\nasked to provide data from phones and other electronic devices
\nheld for many hours for identity and electronic device checks, sometimes without access to refreshments
\nUnder Russian law, you do not need to release your electronic device for checks unless you are presented with a search warrant. However, if you refuse to release your device, you may face substantial delays entering Russia due to continued questioning and pressure to cooperate, including threats of legal action.
\n\nYou should:
\n\ntell family, friends or colleagues about your travel plans and explain that the arrival process might take longer than usual
\nstay calm and avoid confrontation if you are stopped
\nbe prepared for a long delay, and potentially to be refused entry to Russia
\nThe UK government cannot interfere in Russian immigration decisions and cannot help you during questioning.
\n\nYou must register with the local authorities if you’re staying anywhere for more than 7 working days. Your hotel will do this automatically. If you’re staying with someone, check that they’re doing this.
\n\nYou must show evidence of your registration at passport control when you leave Russia. Police also carry out routine checks. If you cannot show your registration and passport, you may be detained for up to 48 hours for identity checks or get a fine.
\n\nAs of 11 January 2025, foreign citizens with a Belarusian or Russian visa may enter, leave, stay or transit through either Belarus or Russia during the period of validity of the visa. This is limited to certain international border crossing points. For more information, see the website of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
\n\nYou will need to go through immigration control if you fly to Russia from Belarus or from Belarus to Russia.
\n\nYou can only cross the land border between Russia and Belarus by road through a limited number of authorised crossing points. Crossing at any other place is prohibited. Authorised crossing points are:
\n\nContact your train or tour operator before booking your travel to make sure you enter Russia through an immigration checkpoint. Contact the nearest Russian embassy or consulate for advice on rail travel.
\n\nFor details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Russia guide.
\n\nThere are strict rules on what you can take into and out of Russia.
\n\nIf you fail to comply with Russian customs regulations, you may face fines, confiscation of goods or prosecution. Check the Federal Customs Service of Russia guidance for details (the site may not be accessible from outside Russia).
\n\nYou must complete a customs declaration form if you import goods worth more than 10,000 US dollars (or the same amount in other currencies).
\n\nYou must also complete a customs declaration when bringing any of the following into Russia, regardless of their value:
\n\nRussian law requires accompanying documentation for many of these items.
\n\nPossessing even small quantities of any illegal drugs, including cannabis, carries severe penalties. See ‘Illegal drugs’ for more information.
\n\nCannabidiol (CBD) is illegal in Russia, even in products purchased legally elsewhere. This includes oils, edibles and vapes. If you’re found with CBD products you may be sentenced to several years’ imprisonment.
\n\nYou may bring cash in any currency and travellers’ cheques into or out of Russia without declaring them if their combined value does not exceed the equivalent of 10,000 US dollars.
\n\nYou cannot leave Russia with cash in any currency or travellers’ cheques if their combined value is more than the equivalent of 10,000 US dollars, even if you complete a customs declaration.
\n\nYou must obtain a licence before travelling if you plan to take certain electronic equipment with you to Russia, including GPS devices. The number of electronic items you can bring for personal use is limited.
\n\nCheck the requirements for entering and exiting Russia with electronic items on the Federal Customs Service website (the site may not be accessible from outside Russia).
\n\nRussia has strict regulations on the import and export of antiques, artwork, and items of historical significance.
\n\nYou must get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture (the site may not be accessible from outside Russia) and declare each item when you leave. It is illegal to import or export items without a permit.
\n\nMake sure a customs official stamps your customs declaration form when you enter. If you do not get a stamp, the authorities may confiscate your money or goods when you leave, and you may be fined.
\n\nKeep receipts of any purchases in case you need to show them when you leave Russia.
\n\nThe Russian economy is unstable. This could make access to goods and services difficult.
\n\nMastercard and Visa are not operating in Russia. Mastercard and Visa cards issued outside Russia will not work at Russian shops or ATMs. Cards issued inside Russia will work in, but not outside, Russia. You may not be able to access your money through Russian banks or make payments to Russian businesses with non-Russian credit or debit cards.
\n\nFor all other credit or debit cards, let your provider know you’re travelling to Russia to avoid your card being blocked for anti-fraud reasons.
\n\nThere are few remaining methods of transferring money to Russia. UK Banks may refuse to transfer funds to even non-sanctioned banks. There have also been several cases of UK bank accounts of non-UK residents being closed at short notice. Make sure that you have enough money to cover your stay and have plans on how to access funds if your current methods become unavailable.
\n\nIt is illegal to pay directly for general transactions in Russia using foreign currency. It is difficult to get Russian roubles in high street banks in the UK. If you want to buy roubles in Russia, you must take US dollars or euros to exchange.
\n\nOnly change money at banks, hotels and exchange bureaus. It is illegal to change money from street traders.
\n\nThe UK government has sanctioned several major Russian banks. This means British nationals are banned from making funds available to these banks. See more information about Russian sanctions and what this means for British nationals.
\n\n","slug":"entry-requirements","title":"Entry requirements"},{"body":"There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nTerrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Russia.
\nTerrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:
\n\nTerrorist attacks have taken place in Moscow and St Petersburg and other Russian cities in recent years, resulting in large numbers of casualties. Russia’s aviation has also been targeted.
\n\nExamples of recent attacks include:
\n\nAdditional counter-terrorism procedures and restrictions may still be in place across the country. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
\n\nTerrorists are active in the North Caucasus. They have carried out a number of attacks mainly in Russia’s Dagestan region.
\n\nSecurity services carry out regular counter-terrorism operations in the North Caucasus and across Russia. These can happen at short notice and may lead to travel restrictions.
\n\nExamples of recent attacks include:
\n\nThe Russian invasion of Ukraine continues. There are reports of drone attacks and explosions in Russia, particularly near the Russian border with Ukraine, but also in and near large cities and infrastructure sites across Western and Central Russia. Associated Russian air defence activity may pose a threat to civilian aviation. Air space may close during drone attacks. This has led to frequent and unpredictable delays, diversions and cancellations to flights in and out of Russian airports. There have been several shootings in Moscow, often near to apartment blocks. There has also been a bombing near to a Moscow railway station.
\n\nCheck local media for the latest information. Be vigilant and avoid any political demonstrations or gatherings.
\n\nThe situation remains unpredictable and could escalate without warning.
\n\nIf you do not need to be in Russia, the FCDO strongly advises you to consider leaving.
\n\nYou cannot fly directly from Russia to the UK or through EU countries. There are limited commercial airlines with indirect flights including through the Middle East, Serbia, Azerbaijan, Central Asia, Georgia and Turkey. Check the latest information with your airline or travel provider.
\n\nLand borders may be busy or closed. Be prepared for a long wait to exit Russia. Officials may question you at the border. During periods of unrest, check the local media for updates before travelling.
\n\nCheck entry requirements in:
\n\nThese and other European countries have restricted or banned the entry of vehicles registered in Russia. Check entry requirements before driving a vehicle registered in Russia into Europe.
\n\nSee information on:
\n\nIf you decide to stay in Russia, you should:
\n\nRead guidance for people affected by a crisis abroad.
\n\nRussia’s invasion of Ukraine continues. The situation is unpredictable and could escalate without warning. Stay alert and follow the advice of local authorities.
\n\nRussia has heightened security measures in place, which are set by local authorities and differ between regions. They can introduce additional measures at short notice, especially near borders. This could include curfews, restrictions on movement and public gatherings, searches or seizure of private property and increased monitoring of communications.
\n\nThere is military activity in Kursk and Belgorod oblasts. On 10 August, Russian authorities introduced a “counter-terrorist operation” regime in Kursk, Belgorod and Bryansk oblasts. The activity in these oblasts is mainly limited to regions which border Ukraine. However, military activity could spread to other areas. Travel advice for other oblasts could change at short notice. Follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.
\n\nIf you travel to Russia to join the Russian army, or to help others engaged in the war with Ukraine, you could be breaking UK laws. You could be prosecuted when you return to the UK.
\n\nOn 28 December 2024, the Russian Criminal Code was revised, expanding the scope of potential liability for foreigners believed to be acting against Russian interests.
\n\nIf the Russian authorities suspect you of engaging in or supporting activities against Russian law, even if activities took place outside Russia, you may be:
\n\nActivities could include:
\n\nIf Russian authorities detain you, you could face months or years of imprisonment. Russia has a track record of targeting foreign nationals and holding them in detention as leverage over other countries. FCDO’s ability to assist you in these circumstances is extremely limited.
\n\nIf you are a British-Russian dual national, you are at risk of arrest, questioning or detention.
\n\nIt may take some time for the Russian authorities to tell us of your arrest or detention and to give us permission to visit you. They will control your access to your family during your detention. Conditions in Russian penitentiary institutions are poor.
\n\nIf you are a British-Russian dual national, we may not be informed of your arrest. The Russian authorities will treat you as a Russian national. They will not allow FCDO consular access to visit you.
\n\nJournalists have been arrested for gathering and publishing information.
\n\nThere are severe restrictions on publishing and distributing information related to the Russian armed forces and any military operations. This includes images of, including the aftermath, of drone, military or terrorist attacks. People charged under these laws face heavy sentences.
\n\nIf you publish or distribute information considered ‘fake’ or from non-official Russian government sources, you could receive a fine or prison sentence of up to 15 years. This includes posting or sharing content on social media.
\n\nIn response to Russia’s invasion, the UK and other governments have placed sanctions on Russia, including on its airlines. This can affect the situation in Russia and anyone travelling there. See more information about Russian sanctions and what this means for British nationals.
\n\nInternational businesses and services have restrictions in place, including Mastercard and Visa, which means you may not be able to access money or other services. Read FCDO’s overall travel advice and entry requirements.
\n\nSince Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, there have been anti-war protests across Russia. Demonstrators have been detained.
\n\nAuthorised rallies and demonstrations are allowed in cities and towns in Russia. Under Russian law, a single person can constitute a protest and could be subject to repercussions by Russian authorities. Unauthorised demonstrations can become violent, with a strong response from security forces.
\n\nCheck local media for the latest information, be vigilant and avoid demonstrations or large gatherings that may be considered political. Do not take photographs of or film political activities.
\n\nBe alert to the risk of mugging, pickpocketing and theft in the main tourist areas, around the main railway stations, vehicles and hotel rooms. You should not:
\n\nBe wary of groups of people begging.
\n\nLook after your passport, especially in major transport hubs and busy areas. British nationals have had passports stolen or lost in Moscow airports. Take care when passing through airports, particularly in the baggage collection area and outside the arrivals hall.
\n\nDrink spiking, leading to robbery, violence or abuse, can happen. Victims are often left unconscious outside. This can be life-threatening in winter. Buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight.
\n\nThere have been deaths and cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in Russia.
\n\nIn recent cases, deaths were linked to bootleg vodka sold in the Leningrad region. Authorities have arrested suspects, seized thousands of litres of illicit alcohol, and launched criminal investigations. In 2023, a counterfeit cider branded Mister Cider caused over 50 deaths, prompting product bans and enforcement action, but despite this, incidents have continued.
\n\nEven small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Spiking and methanol poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks.
\n\nSeek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.
\n\nViolent criminals do not usually target foreign visitors. However, in St Petersburg gangs have targeted tourists for street crime.
\n\nBritish nationals travelling in unregistered taxis have been victims of crime. Taxis that look official can be unlicensed. You should:
\n\nDo not flag down a taxi or share a taxi with strangers.
\n\nDating services scams have affected British nationals. Never send money to or buy items for anyone you have not met in person.
\n\nBe wary of sending money through untraceable transfer services. British nationals have lost money when sending it to unknown recipients without checking they’re genuine.
\n\nThe police do not need a reason to stop, question or detain you. Criminals posing as police officers have harassed and robbed tourists. If you’re stopped, always insist on seeing identification. Report any harassment or crime to the nearest police office.
\n\nAlways carry your passport with you as ID. Police carry out random checks, especially during periods of high security. You could get a fine or be detained for up to 48 hours if you cannot show your passport when asked. Copies are not accepted.
\n\nYou can be prosecuted for possessing even small quantities of any drugs, including cannabis. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.
\n\nAirports in Russia have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.
\n\nAccess to some areas, such as military and border zones, is restricted. You must get permission from local authorities before entering. If you do not have permission, the authorities may arrest, fine or deport you.
\n\nYou can find a list of restricted areas online (in Russian, you may not be able access the site from outside of Russia). Check with your tour operator or the Russian Embassy in the UK if you’re unsure whether a tour or excursion will take you into a restricted area.
\n\nPhotography is illegal at any military, secure or official sites, including airports. There may not be warning signs in locations where photography is banned. You could be detained or arrested if you break the law.
\n\nDue to current military activities, it is illegal to use drones in some regions. Check restrictions with the local authorities.
\n\nYou must get permission from the Russian aviation authority (in Russian) before using any unmanned aircraft systems (drones) in Russian airspace. You must tell them the flight route at least 24 hours in advance and keep in regular contact with them before and during the flight. You will get a fine if you do not comply.
\n\nIf you travel to Russia with a non-Russian SIM card, you may not be able to access mobile internet, SMS or other services. Buying a local-network SIM card in Russia can be difficult for visitors and could take up to 2 weeks to complete. Make sure your friends and relatives know how to contact you if your mobile phone does not work.
\n\nYou need to present your passport or other ID and pass biometric checks to buy a Russian sim card from local providers in Russia. You may be asked to perform these checks even if you have had a local SIM for some time.
\n\nYou can continue using your UK SIM in Russia without any local identity checks as long as your UK mobile company provides roaming service for Russia.
\n\nAny SIM which has not been connected to the Russian network for 72 hours will not be able to connect to the internet or send SMS when they are first switched on. You may have to wait for some time for the services to resume. This may vary from several hours to several days. Some networks may allow you to complete a set of actions to get your access restored quicker.
\n\nMake sure friends and relatives know how to contact you if your mobile phone does not work.
\n\nThere are increasing restrictions to limit access to content posted on the internet, including social media platforms. Meta (Facebook and Instagram), X and LinkedIn are blocked in Russia. Access to other websites can be unreliable.
\n\nMore information is available from the Federal Service for Surveillance of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media (in Russian).
\n\nMost visitors experience no problems, but racial discrimination can happen in some areas. If you’re of African, Asian or Caribbean descent, you may receive unwanted attention in public places. Take care, particularly when travelling late at night.
\n\nHomosexuality is not illegal in Russia but there are considerable legislative restrictions which target the LGBT+ community. In January 2024 a Russian Supreme Court judgement came into force banning the so-called ‘international LGBT movement’ and designating it as ‘extremist’. ‘LGBT propaganda’ legislation bans people from promoting ‘non-traditional sexual relations’. If charged, foreign citizens could face:
\n\nAttitudes towards the LGBT+ community and LGBT+ issues are less tolerant than in the UK and vary in different locations. Government officials have made derogatory comments to LGBT+ individuals. Same-sex couples showing affection in public may receive negative attention.
\n\nThere are no laws to protect LGBT+ people from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity.
\n\nRecent laws targeting LGBT+ communities include:
\n\nIn November 2023, the Russian Supreme Court banned the so-called ‘international LGBT movement’, designating it as ‘extremist’. The court provided no definition of ‘international LGBT movement’.
\n\nDisplaying ‘extremist’ symbols and being a member of and donating money to ‘extremist’ organisations are criminal offences. This decision came in to force in January 2024. It is unclear how the authorities will implement the ruling but there have been reports of persecution for displaying the rainbow flag, considered by the authorities as a ‘symbol of an extremist organisation’.
\n\nHarassment, threats and acts of violence towards the LGBT+ community have increased.
\n\nThe North Caucasus republics are particularly intolerant of the LGBT+ community. There have been reports of the arrest, torture and killing of gay men in Chechnya, allegedly conducted by Chechen regional authorities.
\n\nRead more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nRussia has banned surrogacy for all foreign nationals except those married to Russian citizens. Read about surrogacy arrangements in foreign countries.
\n\nSome religious activities are restricted, including preaching and distributing religious materials.
\n\nJehovah’s Witnesses are considered an extremist organisation in Russia. They can face harassment from authorities, including detention, particularly at places of worship.
\n\nSome other minority religious groups, like Scientologists, also face discrimination.
\n\nIf you’re planning to drive in Russia, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s Russia guide.
\n\nYou’ll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.
\n\nThere are currently fuel shortages throughout Russia. In some places quotas may be imposed, including at short notice. If you intend to drive long distances, you should check fuel availability before travelling.
\n\nIf you have a residence permit or acquire Russian citizenship, you must get a Russian driving licence within one year. See Living in Russia.
\n\nRoad safety in Russia is poor and road conditions are unpredictable. Take care when driving, take account of weather conditions and consider avoiding driving at night. Do not drive alone at night or sleep in your vehicle on the side of the road. Do not pick up hitchhikers.
\n\nTraffic police often stop drivers for spot checks.
\n\nIf you plan to drive into Russia, you must declare your vehicle to the customs authority on entry. You can bring a vehicle into Russia without paying import taxes for up to one year.
\n\nGreen cards are no longer accepted as proof of car or road insurance. Check insurance requirements before entering.
\n\nFor questions about bringing a vehicle into Russia, contact the Russian Embassy in the UK.
\n\nRailway stations have airport-style security. Many railway services require passengers to show their passports on boarding.
\n\nIf you are travelling by overnight train, store valuables in the container under the bed or seat. Do not look after luggage for other travellers or let them store it in your compartment.
\n\nDo not leave your sleeping compartment empty, as some compartments only have a simple lock on the sliding door. On some trains, there may be an extra security device attached to the fitted handle or lock. There may also be a steel switch at head-height on the door panel which, when pulled down, prevents the closed door from being opened.
\n\nAir space will close during drone attacks. This has led to frequent and unpredictable delays, diversions and cancellations to flights in and out of Russian airports.
\n\nThere are restrictions on domestic flights to a number of airports in southern Russia, with disruption to internal flights to and from Moscow and other cities. Check the latest information with your airline or travel provider. Each airline regularly conducts their own safety and security risk assessments if they are flying over or near conflict regions. See Air travel: safety and security
\n\nThe UK Air Safety List (ASL) lists all known airlines in Russia that do not meet international safety standards and are banned from operating commercial air services to, from, and within the UK. Check the UK Air Safety List when considering which airlines to fly with. The list is maintained by the Department for Transport, based on advice from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
\n\nThe UK government has sanctioned:
\n\nBritish nationals can buy flight tickets if the journey is starting in, or within, Russia without breaching UK sanctions. See more information from the Office for Financial Sanctions Implementation (PDF).
\n\nUK government staff do not travel on banned airlines. If staff need to travel internally, they may use airlines which also fly internationally to countries where international safety standards are maintained or on western manufactured aircraft.
\n\nWheelchair access can be limited in some public areas. Facilities for people with limited mobility vary. They can be poor or non-existent in some areas.
\n\nSee more advice on disability and travelling abroad.
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
\n\nEarth tremors are recorded throughout the year without consequences. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
\n\nThere are areas of wildfires in western and southern Russia.
\n\nParts of Russia are in the Arctic Circle, including some very remote areas of land and sea. Emergency medical assistance and search and rescue are limited in these areas. See Arctic travel safety advice.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"Before you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nDial 112 and ask for an ambulance.
\n\nContact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nSee what health risks you’ll face in Russia.
\n\nAltitude sickness is a risk in parts of Russia, including in the Western Caucasus mountains. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nThere is a higher rate of HIV and AIDS in Russia than in the UK. Take normal precautions to avoid exposure.
\n\nAir quality can worsen in some weather conditions. Monitor local media and the regional websites for the Ministry of Emergencies for more information.
\n\nIf you’re in Russia for more than 90 days, you must have a regular comprehensive health examination. This applies to foreign nationals who are:
\n\nThe examination includes tests for sexually transmitted infections and chest X-rays. You will have to submit fingerprints and other biometric data.
\n\nIf you are working or on a highly qualified specialist visa, you must complete the first health check within 30 days of arrival in Russia.
\n\nIf you’re visiting, or in any other category, you must complete the first health check within 90 days of arrival.
\n\nCheck with your employers and the Ministry of the Interior for the latest requirements.
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nIf your medication contains narcotic or psychoactive substances, you must carry a prescription in your name, translated into Russian, and notarised. Notarisation services are available in the UK from a notary public.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nRussia does not have a reciprocal health agreement with the UK. European and Global Health Insurance Cards (EHIC and GHIC) are not valid in Russia. Any foreign national has a legal right to free medical care in life-threatening circumstances.
\n\nMedical care may not meet western standards. Hospitals do not accept all health cases and may request payments before treatment.
\n\nIn remote areas, hospitals may not use disposable intravenous (IV) supplies, syringes and needles as standard practice. You may want to have your own supply.
\n\nFCDO has a list of medical providers in Russia where some staff will speak English.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nTelephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\n