You’ve set your sights on Moscow, you’ve booked the time off work and pretty much everything is in place for your trip. At least, everything apart from your tourist visa for Russia. Or whichever Russian visa you’ll need to gain access to the country.
This is where the whole subject of international travel becomes daunting for a lot of people. The mere mention of visa applications can be enough to put some off travelling altogether. Nevertheless, organising and obtaining a travel visa doesn’t have to be difficult.
As with most things, it’s simply a case of planning ahead and understanding your obligations. For those who are yet to experience the process of travelling to a country with robust immigration restrictions, what follows is a quick Q&A on the subject of visa and visa applications:
What is a Visa?
In the simplest terms, a visa represents formal evidence that you have been approved for entry to a country for a specific period of time. The visa will usually contain information of the date you can enter (or entered) the country, when you must leave by and the extent to which you can work and/or study for the duration of your stay.
What Are the Different Types of Visa?
Every country worldwide has its own unique immigration policy. However, the vast majority of countries provide visas within seven primary categories – visitor visa, student visa, business visa, work visa, working holiday visa, sponsorship visas, and resident visas. The visa you are eligible for will be determined by your intentions during your visit to the country and your country of origin. If you are planning on fully immigrating to a country like the US for example, then you will need to do your research first about how to get this going. You may already have family that immigrated there a long time ago so to track them down you can check this helpful site for further details as well as go through the proper channels. Whichever visa you apply for, make sure you have looked through all your options before applying.
How Do I Apply for a Visa?
Once again, visa application processes vary significantly from one country to the next. It can also vary depending on the type of visa one would require. Nevertheless, it is almost always necessary to apply ahead of time, rather than waiting until the last minute. Application forms can usually be completed online and must be supported with a recognized form of identification, such as your passport. Those who need further assistance for say, spouse visa processing or other types of visas, for that matter, can also look online at websites like www.mayfairimmigration.co.uk, for help. However, keep in mind that, for some visas and countries, it may be necessary to make an appointment at the relevant embassy or consulate.
When Do I Need a Visa?
Visa requirements are country-specific and case-specific. Only you or a visa firm can determine whether or not you need to apply for a visa to travel to your target country. All you might need to do is, contact a reputed visa service provider like swift immigration uk (if you are travelling to the UK, of course!) to learn the details or prior requirements. Moreover, it is always better to seek the necessary support and advice if unsure.
How Much Do Visa Applications Cost?
Some visas are granted free of charge, others can be surprisingly expensive. Again, fees vary significantly from one country to the next, though most countries charge at least something for visa applications – successful or otherwise. Click here to see how much a Russian visa costs from a UK agent.
Where Can I Find Out More Information?
Travellers in the United Kingdom can head to the Gov.UK website to determine their visa requirements for countries worldwide. There are also specialist services available to assist with visa applications, or for help filing appeal in the event that your visa application is rejected. – Russian-visa.org.uk