Is Russia Athorized Country to Travel to?

Last updated: April 27, 2022 16:56 ET

Latest updates: Editorial change

On this folio

• Take chances level
• Safety and security
• Entry and exit requirements
• Health
• Laws and culture
• Natural disasters and climate
• Need aid?

Hazard level

Russia - AVOID ALL TRAVEL

Avoid all travel to Russia due to the impacts of the armed disharmonize with Ukraine, including limited flying options and restrictions on financial transactions.

If you are in Russia, you should leave now while commercial means are still bachelor.

Back to top

Safety and security

Armed conflict with Ukraine

On Feb 24, 2022, Russia began a military invasion of Ukraine.

Several countries, including Canada, have restricted financial transactions and air connections with Russian federation. Russia has retaliated with like measures.

Sure international companies have announced the suspension of their operations, including major credit bill of fare companies and issuers. You may no longer be able to use your credit card for purchases within and outside Russia or to withdraw cash at an ATM.

The sanctions, the suspensions and the Russian retaliation may accept an important impact on the availability and the provision of essential services.

The cost of transportation and transit time have increased significantly and remain very volatile due to high demand, limited flight availability and rerouting. Contact your travel amanuensis or tour operator to make up one's mind if the situation will disrupt travel arrangements.

On March iv, 2022, the Russian parliament adopted a law that severely restricts gratis speech related to the current situation. Strange journalists and other media workers in Russia may confront considerable risks.

While the effects of this constabulary are still unclear, y'all may be detained or fined for:

• sharing or publishing data that local authorities deem false
• sharing or publishing data that may be detrimental to the military machine
• calling for, sharing or publishing spoken communication in support of sanctions against Russia

Abstain from:

• discussing the Russian invasion of Ukraine
• sharing or publishing data related to the current events in Ukraine and Russian federation
• participating in demonstrations and large gatherings

Security conditions are unpredictable and could deteriorate without observe. The ability of our Embassy to provide consular services in Russian federation may become severely express.

Avoid all travel to Russia. If you are in Russia, you should leave at present while commercial means are even so available.

If you decide to remain despite this informational, be aware that:

• you may have to stay in Russia longer than expected
• yous may be affected by shortages of essential products and services
• you may not be able to use your cyberbanking cards for payment or to withdraw funds
• you should not depend on the Government of Canada to aid you leave the state

Additionally, while yous remain in Russia, yous should:

• review your personal security plans on a daily ground
• refrain from discussing political developments in public or online
• avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• make sure you have an adequate supply of cash, essential items and medications
• monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving state of affairs
• make sure your travel documents are up-to-date, including those of your family
• communicate your travel plans to family and friends
• annals and update your contact information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Russia to exercise then

COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions

COVID-nineteen preventative measures and restrictions are still in result in some destinations.

These could include:

• curfews, movement restrictions, or lockdowns
• mandatory mask utilise
• required proof of vaccination or a COVID-19 exam result to access public and individual services and spaces

Before travelling, verify if specific restrictions or requirements are still in outcome.

Foreign Representatives in Canada

Rostov Oblast

The Russian government has alleged a state of emergency and maintains a pregnant military presence in Rostov Oblast. The state of affairs along the Ukrainian edge is unpredictable and could change quickly. Practice extreme vigilance if yous must travel to this region, equally armed clashes and violence pose serious threats to your safety. If you are currently in this area, you lot should strongly consider leaving. The power of the Embassy of Canada to Russia in Moscow to provide consular help in this district is extremely limited.

Republics of Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia, and Stavropol Krai

Terrorist attacks are frequent in the Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia republics and Stavropol region. The security situation is unstable and dangerous. Suicide bombings occur on a regular basis and targeted assassinations have also taken place. Unexploded mines and munitions are widespread. Kidnapping for ransom is besides common.

You must obtain special permission from the Ministry building of the Interior to enter certain areas and regions.

Republics of Kabardino-Balkaria (including the Mount Elbrus region), Karachai-Cherkessia and North Ossetia

Tensions are high in Russia's border regions with Georgia and may affect the security state of affairs in Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachai-Cherkessia and North Ossetia republics. Military operations are carried out with little or no observe, and are accompanied by travel restrictions. The border crossings to Azerbaijan and Georgia are subject to frequent, sometimes lengthy closures.

Terrorism

At that place is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist groups accept called for attacks on Russian soil. Incidents resulting in decease and injury have occurred most frequently in the Northward Caucasus region, in Moscow and in St. Petersburg, merely may happen throughout the country. Further attacks can't exist ruled out.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• Russian airlines, airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, cultural venues, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

E'er be aware of your environment when in public places.

Russian government have increased full general security measures in Moscow and other big cities.

Crime

Fierce crime

Crime against foreigners is a serious trouble. Harassment and assaults are prevalent, peculiarly against foreigners of Asian and African descent. Some victims have died every bit a consequence of assaults. Foreigners in the areas to which nosotros propose against all travel are particularly vulnerable. Several journalists and foreign assist personnel working in Russian federation have been killed or kidnapped. Criminals have targeted and destroyed well-marked assistance convoys. Exercise extreme caution in crowds and open markets.

Niggling crime

Little crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs ofttimes and is often committed by groups of children and teenagers. Criminals utilize various techniques to distract the victims, including requests for assist. In such situations, walk away speedily. Preferred areas for criminals include:

• hush-hush walkways
• public transportation and transportation hubs
• tourist sites
• restaurants and markets
• hotel rooms and residences (fifty-fifty when occupied and locked)

Reduce your risk of beingness targeted past travelling in groups with reputable tour agencies.

Avert showing signs of affluence and ensure personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Replacing travel documents and visas is hard, and could considerably delay your return to Canada.

Criminal strategies

Criminals may also pose every bit police officers, particularly in Leningrad. Real police force officers wear a visible personal identification number on their uniforms. Bogus checkpoints may be set upwards in rural areas to commit robbery.

Demonstrations and elections

Demonstrations take place. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn trigger-happy at whatever time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for the latest information

Due to heightened political tensions, exist vigilant and don't discuss political developments in public.

• More about mass gatherings (large-calibration events)
• Laws regarding minors involved in demonstrations

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula

Tensions on the neighbouring Korean Peninsula could escalate with little observe and the security situation could deteriorate all of a sudden. Tensions may increment before, during and after N Korean nuclear and missile tests, military exercises or equally the result of incidents or armed forces activities at or near the inter-Korean edge. Monitor developments, remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Spiked food and drinks

Never get out nutrient or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, mucilage or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at chance of sexual assault and robbery.

Fraud

At that place have been cases of foreigners developing friendships or romantic relationships over the Internet and becoming entangled in financial issues in Russia. Remain vigilant and be aware that nosotros can't help y'all recover lost funds or belongings in such cases.

Only substitution money at major banks. Foreigners accept been scammed in the past when exchanging money on the street.

Traffic constabulary may stop motorists to collect fraudulent cash fines on the spot.

Credit card and automated banking car (ABM) fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a depository financial institution or business concern
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• encompass the keypad with one hand when entering your Pivot
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

More nigh overseas fraud

Organized crime

Organized criminal groups are active throughout Russia, especially in large cities. Extortion and corruption are common business practices, including among foreign businesses. Criminals demand protection coin from their victims under threat of serious violence. Study extortion attempts to Russian authorities.

LGBTQ2

Discrimination against LGBTQ2 individuals is common. LGBTQ2 travellers, as well every bit their friends and families, take been targets of harassment and violence, peculiarly exterior of Moscow.

Larn more about laws affecting LGBTQ2 travellers in Russia

Road rubber

Road conditions vary and are often poor outside major cities.

Drivers don't respect traffic laws and ofttimes drive and park on pedestrian areas. Accidents are common. Pedestrians should exist peculiarly careful. In the upshot of an accident, don't move the vehicle until the law arrive, even if the car is obstructing traffic.

Bulldoze just during the 24-hour interval.

In winter, road travel can exist hazardous due to ice and snowfall.

Public transportation

When travelling by train, store valuables in a safe identify and don't go out the compartment unattended. Lock the door from the inside.

Nearly major cities have reliable public transportation including buses, subways or streetcars.

Use only registered taxis and don't share a taxi with strangers. Foreigners have been victims of assail and robbery when using unregistered taxis.

Book taxis in accelerate either past phone or through taxi company apps. Avoid flagging downward taxis on the street, but if you practise, negotiate the price earlier getting into the taxi.

Marine transportation

Boat accidents are common due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels. Rubber standards differ from those in Canada. Exercise caution and common sense when using marine transportation. Don't board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy.

Air travel

We exercise not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

General information nearly foreign domestic airlines

Surveillance

Authorities may identify foreigners under surveillance. Hotel rooms, telephones, fax machines and e-mail messages may exist monitored. Personal possessions in hotel rooms may be searched.

Full general safety data

Power outages and shortages occur oftentimes throughout Russia.

Back to meridian

Entry and exit requirements

COVID-nineteen - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements

Near governments have implemented special entry and go out restrictions and requirements for their territory due to COVID-19. These measures tin exist imposed suddenly and may include:

• entry or leave bans
• quarantine
• mandatory proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing
• suspensions or reductions of international transportation options

Foreign government might not recognize or accept proof of vaccination issued by Canadian provinces and territories. You may need to obtain a translation, a notarization, an authentication, or the legalization of the document.

Before travelling:

• verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations accept implemented any restrictions or requirements related to this situation
• consider fifty-fifty your transit points, as there are transit rules in place in many destinations
• monitor the media for the latest data
• reconfirm the requirements with your airline or bout operator

The situation could disrupt your travel plans. You lot should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance to change your travel plans.

Useful links

• Travel restrictions and health requirements - United Nations World Tourism System (UNWTO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA)
• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination'south entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the data on this page from the Russian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Strange Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the blazon of passport you utilize for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company virtually passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may exist more stringent than the state's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least half dozen months beyond the date you lot expect to leave Russian federation.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with "X" gender identifier

While the Authorities of Canada issues passports with an "X" gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. Y'all might face entry restrictions in countries that practice not recognize the "X" gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may utilize when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest strange representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Strange Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Canadians must exist in possession of a visa to visit Russia. Visa applications must be submitted electronically, via the Embassy of the Russian Federation'due south website

Tourist visa: Required (for those staying in commercial accommodations), exceptions apply
Invitee visa: Required (for those staying in private accommodations)
Business organization visa: Required
Student visa: Required
Transit visa: Required (including for Belarus), exceptions apply
Get out visa: Required

Strange visitors must leave Russia once the visa validity menstruum has concluded. To extend a visa, a foreign national must accommodate with the territorial units of the migration service authorities prior to the validity end date to start the extension procedure.

Tourist visa

You need a tourist visa if you are staying at a hotel or other commercial establishment. Ensure that the hotel registers your visa when you check in.

It is best if you lot book your travel through a travel agency, which volition submit a tourist visa application on your behalf. Canadian travel agents work with Russian travel agencies or companies, which act as sponsors for tourist visas.

In cases of expired tourist visas or lost or stolen Canadian passports, only the visa-sponsoring travel agency is authorized to use for a new tourist visa on your behalf. Extensions are non issued. Holders of expired visas confront heavy fines or detention upon divergence.

Guest visas

Yous need a guest visa if you intend to stay in private accommodations. The host must obtain an official invitation (priglashenie) from the nearest Russian visa and passport office (UFMS) and send information technology to you lot in Canada. You lot must and so accept the invitation, the visa application and your passport to a Russian embassy or consulate to apply for the visa.

Strange diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Business visa

To get a business visa, you lot need to be sponsored by a Russian individual or organization (the host). It may take up to 3 months for the host to obtain blessing for sponsorship from the Ministry building of the Interior. Whatever subsequent change (replacement or extension) to the original visa must be made by the sponsor. A concern visa is non a piece of work permit.

Exit visa

Y'all must have a valid visa to be allowed to leave Russian federation. If your visa expires, your sponsor must utilize for an exit visa on your behalf. To avoid bug, including displacement, make sure your visa is valid across your intended divergence engagement.

Visa exceptions

Contact your cruise company to find out if you need to use for a Russian visa before your prowl starts. International prowl passengers may enter Russia at specific port cities without a visa for up to 72 hours. Your prowl ship tour guide must have all the authorizations required for your entry by the Russian regime. While in Russia, brand sure that you're able to contact your prowl ship tour guide at any time, in case of emergency or any issue with local authorities.

Some Russian international airports take transit areas that permit for visa-free travel through Russian federation. If you plan to transit through Russian federation, check with your transportation carrier to see if transit visa exceptions apply to you lot.

Migration bill of fare

You must complete a migration carte du jour upon your arrival in Russia. These cards are usually distributed on flights and trains entering Russian federation or at points of entry, but sometimes they are non available, fifty-fifty at major international airports. Even if that's the instance, you lot are responsible to find a migration bill of fare and make full it out. You must keep and carry part B of the migration card throughout your stay. The bill of fare is required for hotel registration.

If the police force asking to run across your migration card, yous must comply. Y'all must nowadays it, your passport and your registered visa. You must also nowadays the card to border officials upon departure.

If you hold a multiple-entry visa, you must fill out a new migration card every fourth dimension you enter Russia.

Loss of this card can result in fines, serious delays or imprisonment at the fourth dimension of difference.

Registration

All strange visitors must annals their arrival within 72 hours of inbound the country (excluding weekends and national holidays). If you take made accommodation arrangements with a hotel for your entire trip, the hotel volition take care of registering your stay with the authorities.

Visitors staying in individual accommodations must annals with the territorial office of the Federal Migration Service. Whatsoever Russian denizen with a resident registration (propiska) can register a foreigner staying at their abode at a local police station or any post role. A pocket-size registration fee may apply. The visitor'south host must be present during the process.

Violation of the rules of migration registration may event in a fine. In some cases, visitors may face expulsion from Russia and a ban from re-inbound of upwards to 5 years.

Community proclamation form

Upon arrival in Russia, you lot must fill out a community declaration grade, then go through the red community line and have the form stamped by a customs official. Without the stamp, any undeclared currency and valuables—including items that could be considered antiquarian—may be confiscated upon divergence.

You must declare amounts of currency exceeding U.s.a.$ten,000 at edge crossings. You may also have to provide information on the origin of the coin and its intended use. Currency exceeding the corporeality stated on the declaration form will be confiscated if you have non obtained an official bank receipt authorizing the clearance of these sums. The annunciation form must exist kept until difference.

Upon departure, y'all must fill out a second customs declaration form and present the two forms to a community official. You must declare any amount greater than RUB3,000. If you lot fail to declare, in writing, the amount of currency in your possession, the undeclared currency and valuables may be confiscated and you lot may exist detained and confront criminal charges leading to imprisonment.

Special permits and restricted areas

Travel to and residency in several Russian cities and regions is restricted. You lot must obtain permission from local regime prior to entering a restricted urban center or region. Failure to do so may result in abort, fines and/or displacement. Adhere an itinerary to your visa application to avert delays. Some areas must be specifically indicated in the visa, and you may accept to pay an extra fee to include them.

Dual citizenship

If you likewise have Russian citizenship, you must enter and leave Russia on a Russian passport. If your Russian passport expires prior to travel, Russian authorities in Canada can extend it for entry into Russian federation only. If the passport expires during your stay in Russia, you lot must obtain a new one earlier leaving. Renewing a Russian passport may take several months.

If you enter Russia with a repatriation document issued past Russian authorities in Canada or elsewhere, you may not be allowed to leave on a Canadian passport. This certificate is only valid for one-way travel into Russian federation.

Acquire more than about laws affecting dual citizens.

State border with Republic of belarus

Only local residents are allowed to travel by state from Russia to Belarus. This restriction applies to cars, tour buses and trains.

Health entry requirements

If you are planning to remain in Russia for more 3 months, you must provide a medical certificate of a negative test for HIV infection. The certificate must be valid for three months from the date of testing and include:

• passport details (total proper name, date of birth, passport number and country of residence)
• HIV test information (date of test, exam results and signatures of the medico who performed the exam and the person examined)
• the length of your intended stay in Russia

Other tests (such every bit for tuberculosis and leprosy) may be required for individuals staying in Russia for more than 3 months.

Larn about laws on travelling with medication.

Yellowish fever

Learn nigh potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn near travel with children.

Back to top

Health

Related Travel Health Notices

Consult a health intendance professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably six weeks before you travel.

Vaccines

Routine Vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.

Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Vaccines to Consider

Yous may exist at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional virtually which ones are correct for you.

COVID-19

Coronavirus illness (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by directly contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any boosted recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and expiry from COVID-xix. While vaccination provides better protection against serious disease, you may notwithstanding be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has non completed a vaccine serial is at increased risk of beingness infected with the virus that causes COVID-nineteen and is at greater run a risk for severe affliction when travelling internationally.

For destination entry and exit requirements, including for COVID-nineteen vaccination requirements, delight check the Entry/get out requirements section.

Regardless of where you lot are going, talk to a health intendance professional before travelling to brand certain you are fairly protected against COVID-nineteen.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (eastward.1000., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.

Flu

Seasonal flu occurs worldwide. The flu flavor usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, betwixt Apr and Oct in the southern hemisphere and year circular in the torrid zone. Influenza (influenza) is acquired by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or past touching objects and surfaces that take been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.

Japanese encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a viral infection that can crusade swelling of the brain. Information technology is spread to humans through the bite of an infected musquito. Risk is very low for almost travellers. Travellers at relatively higher chance may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (east.thousand. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to owned areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an expanse suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (eastward.g., entomologists)

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness. It can spread speedily from person to person past direct contact and through aerosol in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at take chances of existence infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where y'all are going, talk to a health intendance professional before travelling to make certain you are fully protected confronting measles.

Rabies

Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected beast. Vaccination should exist considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high adventure of exposure (eastward.g., are children, take an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).

Tick-borne encephalitis

Risk

• Tick-borne encephalitis is nowadays in some areas of this state.
• It is a viral affliction that affects the fundamental nervous system (brain and spinal cord).
• It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or when you consume unpasteurized milk products.

Recommendation

• Vaccination should exist considered for those who may be exposed to ticks during outdoor activities.
• A vaccine confronting TBE does exist but is just available in countries where the illness is present.
• Learn more on what you tin do to prevent tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)?

Yellow Fever - State Entry Requirements

Yellow fever is a affliction caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because information technology is recommended for their protection.

Risk

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

State Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this state.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

About Yellowish Fever

Yellowish Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

*It is important to note that land entry requirements may not reflect your hazard of yellow fever at your destination. Information technology is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular function of the destination(s) yous volition be visiting to verify any boosted entry requirements.

Food/Water

Food and Water-borne Diseases

Travellers to any destination in the globe tin develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or nutrient.

In some areas in Eastern Europe, food and water tin can also carry diseases like hepatitis A. Practise safe food and h2o precautions while travelling in Eastern Europe. When in doubt, recall…boil it, cook information technology, peel it, or leave it!

Travellers' diarrhea

• Travellers' diarrhea is the well-nigh common disease affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or h2o.
• Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
• The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Acquit oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insects

Insects and Illness

In some areas in Eastern Europe, sure insects carry and spread diseases similar Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, Lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis, Due west Nile virus, and Zika virus.

Travellers are advised to accept precautions against bites.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral illness that typically causes fever, haemorrhage under the skin, and hurting. Take a chance is generally low for well-nigh travellers. It is spread to humans though contact with infected animal blood or actual fluids, or from a tick bite. Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals. There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Malaria

Malaria

There is no risk of malaria in this country.

Animals

Animals and Disease

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, snakes, rodents, and bats. Sure infections found in Eastern Europe, similar rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.

Person-to-Person

Person-to-Person Infections

Crowded conditions tin increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands oftentimes and exercise proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avert colds, the flu and other illnesses.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practice safer sex.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For nearly travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

Loftier-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

COVID-19 - Testing facilities

Consult the following links to observe out where yous tin can get a COVID-19 examination:

Local COVID-19 testing facilities - Government of Russian federation (in Russian only)

Good wellness care is only available in major cities. Quality of care varies profoundly throughout the country. A few quality facilities exist in larger cities and commonly crave greenbacks payment upon admission. Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.

Brand sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Go on in Mind...

The conclusion to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is too responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to exist the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, peculiarly if you volition be travelling away from major city centres.

Back to top

Laws and civilisation

You must abide by local laws.

Learn almost what you should do and how nosotros can aid if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Identification

Regime frequently perform random identity checks in public places.

Y'all must acquit the post-obit identification documents at all times:

• a valid passport with 2 blank pages for stamps
• a valid Russian visa
• an migration card
• a stamped registration notification

You may be fined or detained for failing to provide proper documentation to Russian authorities.

Just the special constabulary of the Federal Migration Bureau have the authority to arrest, detain and impose fines on improperly documented foreigners. If you are stopped in the street and requested to pay a fine, ask to come across the officeholder'due south name and identification and to contact the Embassy of Canada to Russia in Moscow.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Useful links

• Alcohol, drugs and travel
• Cannabis and international travel

Minors participating in demonstrations

Information technology is illegal for minors (those nether xviii) to participate in unauthorized protests. Adults who involve minors in such protests could face upwardly to 15 days in jail and fines of up to RUB1 million.

LGBTQ2 travellers

Although the laws of Russia do non prohibit homosexual activeness, Russian federal police force prohibits public actions that are described equally promoting homosexuality and "non-traditional sexual relations."

Public deportment that contravene or appear to contravene this police may pb to arrest, a fine and deportation. Examples of such actions include dissemination of information (for example, through public statements) and public displays of affection. Aforementioned sex matrimony is not recognized in Russian federation. Homosexuality isn't socially accepted.

General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Russia.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Russia, they may refuse to grant yous admission to Canadian consular services. This will prevent united states of america from providing you with those services.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

You may also exist field of study to certain legal obligations, including armed services service. Seek advice from the nearest Russian embassy or consulate earlier travelling to Russia.

If you are also a Russian citizen and reside in Russia or hold permanent residency status in some other land, yous must declare this citizenship or residency status to your local migration part.

More details on this requirement and consequences of not-compliance-Federal Migration Service of the Russia (in Russian simply)

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It tin assist parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not utilize between Canada and Russia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is beingness held in Russia by an abducting parent:

• human activity every bit quickly as you tin can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Russia to explore all the legal options for the render of your child
• study the state of affairs to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children'due south Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Sentinel and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in individual legal matters or in another land's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Kid Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Backside Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Lookout and Response Centre

Religious activity

Religious action is heavily regulated in Russia. If y'all programme to engage in religious activity, such as missionary work, make sure you lot are not inadvertently violating local laws.

Driving

You should carry an international driving let.

More about the International Driving Permit

You may drive with a Canadian commuter'south licence if you carry it and a Russian translation. Yous must obtain a local allow if staying longer than vi months.

The legal blood alcohol content limit is significantly lower than in Canada. Those institute guilty of drinking and driving can expect heavy fines, suspension of their driving permit and immediate detention. Repeat offenders may face prison sentences.

The traffic police tin can impose fines on drivers for traffic violations. They can deport identity checks on pedestrians, simply they are not authorized to impose fines. The same is true of police in the undercover metro systems.

Medication

Russia has very strict rules on the importation of medication. Sure prescription and over-the-counter drugs that are common in Canada may be prohibited, and large quantities of whatever medicine will be scrutinized.

If you are travelling with medication, even over-the-counter medication, you must have a doc's note translated to Russian confirming that you need the medication. Contact the Embassy of the Russian Federation for up-to-date information.

Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Imports and exports

The importation and use of electronic equipment are strictly controlled. Foreigners have faced charges of espionage for possessing improperly certified GPS devices, such as those used for geological mapping.

You must obtain a certificate from the Ministry of Culture to consign items that appear erstwhile (prior to 1945) or may accept cultural value. Customs officials may comport thorough baggage searches and can arrest you lot if y'all don't have the necessary certificate.

Contact the nearest Russian embassy or consulate, or consult the Federal Customs Service prior to difference for upwardly-to-date information on customs requirements.

Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Money

The currency of Russian federation is the Russian ruble (RUB).

It is illegal to pay for goods and services in foreign currency. Y'all can exchange U.S. dollars at any substitution counter. Comport new, crisp bills; well-worn or used U.S. banknotes may not be accepted. ATMs are common in principal cities. ATMs volition accept cards with four-digit pin numbers, just you lot may experience bug with cards with 5- or 6-digit pivot codes. In major cities, you can usually exchange Euros and U.S. dollars at various banks.

Dorsum to top

Natural disasters and climate

Forest fires

Forest fires are common between July and September, particularly in Siberia. The air quality in areas virtually agile fires may deteriorate due to heavy fume.

In instance of a major fire:

• stay abroad from the affected area, peculiarly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Seismic activity

Parts of Russian federation, such as Chechnya, the Kamchatka Peninsula and the Kuril Islands, are prone to seismic or volcanic action.

Flooding

Spring flooding throughout Siberia and parts of western Russia.

Back to top

Need assist?

Local services

Emergency services

In case of emergency, dial 112 or:

• police: 102
• medical aid: 103
• firefighters: 101

Consular help

Due to the ongoing pandemic, our consular services could be limited. Contact us by email or telephone before visiting our offices.

Moscow - Diplomatic mission of Canada

Vladivostok - Consulate of Canada

Street Address707-59 Krasnogo Znameni prospekt, Vladivostok 690002, RussiaTelephone7 (423) 242-0024Electronic mailVladivostok@international.gc.caInternet www.russian federation.gc.caServices Passport Services Available Twitter @CanadaRussiaOther social media @CanadaPoRusski Consular servicesThis part is headed by an Honorary Consul of Canada and does not provide all consular services.
For more than data, contact the Embassy of Canada to Russian federation.

For calls originating inside Russia the "vii" should exist replaced by an "eight".

For emergency consular help, call the Embassy of Canada in Moscow and follow the instructions. At whatsoever time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

Disclaimer

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we brand every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "equally is" ground without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does non presume responsibleness and volition not be liable for any amercement in connection to the information provided.

If you lot demand consular assistance while abroad, we will brand every effort to help you lot. However, at that place may exist constraints that will limit the power of the Regime of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services.

Share this post