What is a visa invitation letter and do I need one?

An invitation letter (visa support) is required for all Russian tourist and business visas. It's an official document confirming the purpose of your trip. You can order one online from about $16 (tourist) or $30 (business).

How much does a Russian visa cost for New Zealand citizens?

The consular visa fee varies by processing speed (standard ~$50–80, express ~$100–150). Add the invitation letter ($16–30) and VFS service fee if applicable.

Where can I apply for a Russian visa in New Zealand?

Russia has diplomatic missions in: Wellington. See our consulate directory for full addresses and hours.

How long does it take to get a Russian visa?

A standard consular visa takes 4–20 business days depending on the consulate and processing type (standard, express, or urgent).

🇳🇿Visa requiredUpdated 1 July 2026

Russian Visa for New Zealand Citizens

Q: Do citizens of New Zealand need a visa to visit Russia?

Yes. Citizens of New Zealand need a consular visa to enter Russia. Tourist and business visas require an invitation letter (visa support document).

Citizens of New Zealand need a consular visa to enter Russia. Tourist and business visas require an invitation letter (visa support), which can be ordered online in minutes.

Order Invitation Letter Full Visa Guide

Quick Facts

Visa requirement: Consular visa required
Processing time: 4–20 business days
Invitation letter: From $16 (tourist) / $30 (business)
Where to apply: Wellington

Visa Options for New Zealand Passport Holders

Tourist Visa

Single/double entry, up to 30 days
Requires invitation letter (tourist voucher)
Apply at consulate or VFS center
Processing: 4–20 business days
Invitation from $16

Business Visa

Single/double/multiple entry
Up to 1 year (multiple entry)
Requires business invitation letter
Apply at consulate or VFS center
Invitation from $30

How to Get a Russian Visa from New Zealand

Follow these steps to obtain your Russian visa:

1
Obtain an invitation letter
Get a tourist confirmation/voucher or a business invitation. This can be ordered online in minutes.
2
Complete the application form
Fill in the official visa application form for the consulate that serves your country of residence.
3
Prepare your documents
Valid passport, photo, invitation, and (for some nationalities) travel medical insurance.
4
Submit at a consulate or VFS center
Apply in person or by post at the Russian consulate or an authorised visa center (e.g. VFS Global).
5
Collect your visa
Pay the consular and service fees, then collect your passport with the visa once processed.

Start with Step 1 — Order Invitation Letter

Processing times & costs for New Zealand citizens

Typical visa processing times and approximate costs for New Zealand passport holders applying for a Russian visa.

Visa type	Processing time	Approximate cost
Tourist visa	4–20 business days	Consular fee + ~USD 16–20 (invitation)
Business visa	4–20 business days	Consular fee + USD 30–250 (invitation)
Private visa	4–20 business days + GUVM processing (2–6 weeks)	Consular fee only

Sources: Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (mid.ru), e-Visa portal (evisa.kdmid.ru). Processing times are estimates and may vary by consulate and season. Consular fees depend on nationality and bilateral agreements.