Russian Far East, Russia
Starting preparations well in advance makes for a smooth trip.
Steps to follow for a well-prepared visit.
Confirm your passport is valid for 6 months beyond your departure, with two blank pages.
Begin the visa process, which includes acquiring an invitation letter.
Research and tentatively book international flights and major train segments.
Finalize all flight and accommodation bookings.
Secure comprehensive travel insurance; print policy details.
Dedicate time to learning basic Russian phrases.
Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.
Obtain Russian Rubles (RUB) in small denominations for immediate expenses.
Install and familiarize yourself with essential apps like Yandex.Taxi, 2GIS, and Google Translate.
Securing elements of your trip ahead of time.
Gaining cultural context for a richer visit.
Immediate steps upon reaching Vladivostok for a smooth transition.
Keep the departure portion of your Migration Card with your passport; it is mandatory for hotel registration and upon exiting Russia.
A complete review of documents for your journey.
Confirm your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from Russia.
Verify your passport contains at least two blank pages for the Russian visa stamp.
If necessary, renew your passport well in advance of your travel dates.
Secure an invitation letter (Tourist Confirmation and Tourist Voucher) from a licensed Russian tour operator or hotel.
Complete the Russian online visa application form accurately and completely.
The visa application process can take several weeks; begin this early to avoid delays.
Make multiple copies (digital and physical) of your passport, visa, flight tickets, and insurance policy.
Store these copies separately from the originals to safeguard against loss or theft.
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans. This prevents card suspensions due to unusual international activity.
Obtain some Russian Rubles (RUB) in small denominations for immediate expenses upon arrival.
Arrange comprehensive travel insurance. Confirm your policy covers medical emergencies, medical evacuation, and trip cancellation.
Print out your policy details and keep them with your travel documents. World Nomads is a provider.
For stays longer than 7 working days, registration of your stay is mandatory. Confirm your hotel handles this, or your host assists with registration for apartment stays.
Final actions before leaving Vladivostok.
Critical documents for a smooth exit from Russia.
For international flights from Vladivostok International Airport, arrive at least 2-3 hours before departure.
For train departures, arrive at the railway station at least 30-45 minutes before departure.
