Is it safe to travel to Russia in 2025?
The question remains complicated, with no universal answer. Since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the tourism landscape has shifted dramatically. For many travelers, especially those from Western nations, the idea of visiting Russia now comes with a mix of caution, concern, and logistical hurdles.
Travel advisories from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Canada continue to warn against all travel to Russia. These advisories point to heightened risks, including arbitrary detentions, harassment by Russian authorities, and unpredictable enforcement of local laws. Travelers already in Russia are advised to leave as soon as possible.
In contrast, countries like China, Brazil, India, and Serbia take a more neutral stance. Their governments do not discourage travel entirely but urge increased caution, particularly in areas near the Ukrainian border. Despite the risks, thousands of tourists from Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Europe continue to visit Russia each year.
For those who still intend to visit, it is essential to review the visa process. The requirements vary depending on your nationality. Several countries now enjoy access to short-term electronic visas. Others, including U.S. and UK citizens, still need to apply at a Russian embassy or consulate. Due to reduced travel demand, some recent visitors have reported shorter processing times than in previous years. Still, it’s important to confirm details with the appropriate diplomatic office before making plans.
The journey into Russia typically starts by flying through third-party countries such as Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Serbia, or Armenia. These routes offer connecting flights to major Russian cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. Airports in southern Russia remain closed, a policy in place since 2022 due to ongoing hostilities. Entering by land is also possible—for instance, by crossing from Lithuania or Estonia into Kaliningrad and then flying into mainland Russia—but land routes can involve more extensive screening and restrictions, including rules about bringing foreign currency into the country.
What You Should Know…Quickly
Once in Russia, staying connected via mobile phone has become more difficult. Recent regulations require foreign nationals to register their biometric data before acquiring a local SIM card. This includes visiting a Sberbank branch to submit a photo and voice sample, registering for a Russian SNILS (a local equivalent of a social security number), and providing the IMEI number of the mobile device. These requirements are time-consuming and may feel intrusive to short-term visitors. As a workaround, some travelers opt for international roaming or eSIM services activated before arrival.
Internet access in Russia is another challenge. Numerous platforms—such as Instagram, Facebook, and several Western news sites—are banned. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is essential for accessing restricted content. However, many well-known VPN providers have also been blocked by Russian authorities. It’s recommended to install and configure a working VPN before entering the country, as even VPN websites might be inaccessible from within.
Payments and currency handling have also changed. Due to sanctions, foreign-issued Visa and Mastercard cards no longer function inside Russia. Cash transactions have become the norm, though travelers need to be aware of limits on bringing euros into the country. Some frequent visitors rely on MIR cards, part of Russia’s domestic banking system, although obtaining one can be tricky for tourists. Currency exchange is still possible in cities, but less so in remote areas.
In 2025, visiting Russia is still possible but requires serious preparation. Risks remain, especially for those from Western nations, and travelers must be prepared for extra surveillance, limited digital access, and financial restrictions. For others, from countries with neutral or friendly ties to Russia, visiting may be less complicated, though not without its own concerns.
Visiting Russia is no longer a typical tourist experience, it is now a decision that must balance personal curiosity with political awareness and safety.
