Do I Need an Invitation Letter for a Russian Visa? Complete Guide

If you are planning a trip to Russia, one of the most common questions is –  Do I need an invitation letter to get a Russian visa? The answer depends on the type of visa you are applying for. In this guide, we will explain when an invitation letter is required, how to get one, and what it should include.

What is an Invitation Letter for a Russian Visa?

An invitation letter (Visa Support Letter) is an official document issued by an authorized organization or individual in Russia. It serves as proof that you are invited to Russia for a specific purpose, such as tourism, business, study, or work.

Do I Need an Invitation Letter for Every Russian Visa Type?

Russian E-Visa: ❌ No invitation letter required.
Russian Tourist Visa: ✅ Yes, an invitation letter is required.
Russian Business Visa: ✅ Yes, an invitation letter is required.
Russian Private Visa: ✅ Yes, an invitation letter is required.
Russian Study Visa:  ✅ Yes, an invitation letter from the university is required.
Russian Work Visa: ✅ Yes, an invitation letter from the employer is required.

Types of Invitation Letters for Russian Visa

Tourist Invitation Letter (Voucher):

• Issued by an authorized Russian travel agency or hotel.
• Must include your full name, travel dates, and hotel information.

Business Invitation Letter:

• Issued by a registered Russian company.
• Must include company details, your full name, travel dates, and purpose of visit.

Private Invitation Letter:

• Issued by a Russian citizen (your friend or relative).
• Must be authorized by the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD).

Study Invitation Letter:

• Issued by the Russian university you are accepted to.
• Must include your personal details, course information, and study duration.

Work Invitation Letter:

•  Issued by your Russian employer.
• Must include job details, salary information, and your personal details.

How to Get an Invitation Letter for Your Russian Visa

Contact a Registered Travel Agency: For tourist invitations.
Ask Your Host Company: For business or work invitations.
Coordinate with Your University: For study invitations.
Use VisaLaunch Services: We provide official tourist invitation letters for your Russian visa.

What Should a Valid Invitation Letter Include?

•  Full name of the applicant.
• Passport details.
• Dates of arrival and departure.
• Purpose of visit.
• Contact information of the inviting party (company or individual).
• Authorized signature and stamp (if required).