What Is a Russian Visa Invitation Letter?
A visa invitation letter (also called "visa support" or "tourist voucher") is a mandatory document for Russian visa applications. It's issued by an authorized Russian travel company or organization and confirms your accommodation and travel arrangements in Russia.
Types of Invitation Letters for Chinese Citizens
There are two main types: 1) Tourist invitation (tourist voucher + confirmation of accommodation) — for tourism, sightseeing, visiting friends. Delivered instantly by email from $18. 2) Business invitation — for meetings, conferences, negotiations. Takes 5-21 business days, costs $149.
How to Get an Invitation Letter Online
The fastest way is to order online from GetRussianVisa.com: 1) Choose tourist or business invitation. 2) Enter your passport details and travel dates. 3) Pay securely online. 4) Receive the invitation by email (tourist: instantly, business: 5-21 days). Print it and include with your visa application.
What Information Is on the Invitation?
The invitation contains: your full name and passport number, dates of stay, cities you'll visit, accommodation details, the inviting organization's registration number, and a unique reference number. All information must match your visa application form exactly.
Do I Need a Hotel Booking?
When you order a tourist invitation from GetRussianVisa.com, hotel confirmation is included automatically. You don't need to book actual hotels in advance — the invitation covers this requirement. You're free to stay anywhere once in Russia.
Sources: Information based on data from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (mid.ru), the Federal Agency for Tourism (tourism.gov.ru), and the Consular Department of the Russian MFA. Prices and processing times are current as of 2026 and subject to change.
Get Your Visa Invitation Now
Order your Russian visa invitation letter online — delivered instantly by email. Accepted by all Russian consulates worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Chinese citizens need an invitation letter for a Russian visa?
How quickly can I get a Russian visa invitation?
Is the invitation letter the same as a visa?
About the Author
Elena Petrova
Senior Visa Consultant & Content Lead
Elena has over 12 years of experience in Russian visa processing and immigration consulting. She has personally assisted over 50,000 travelers with their Russian visa applications and is a certified specialist in Russian migration law. Elena leads the editorial team at GetRussianVisa.com, ensuring all content is accurate, up-to-date, and compliant with the latest consular regulations.