Way to Russia Talk Lounge

gillhigg · Just Starting Joined: 29 Mar 2008 Posts: 1

I am an Irish Citizen travelling Asia and want to do the Trans Siberian from Beijing to Moscow. I have done alot of reading and its seems that the easiest place in China to apply for the visa is Shangai.

I was wondering if anyone (maybe someone who managed to get a visa in shangai or elsewhere in china) can help clear up the following:

1. Transit Visa - is it cheaper or easier to get than a tourist visa as i will only be in Russia for 10 days?
2. Do you need an Invitation for a Transit Visa?
3. Tourist Visa - any idea on how much it costs to obtain in China/Shangai and how long it takes?
4. Does the consulate in China/Shangai require the original invitation?

any other useful info would be most appreciated! thanks so much

gill

rickchaw · Frequent Guest Joined: 28 Feb 2008 Posts: 10

In china, foreigners can apply for a russian visa only if they are resident in china (at least in beijing).
i heard about it s easier in SGH or HK.
i just got my russian visa today in beijing, even if i don t have resident permit, it s a miracle (i still dont understand why they accepted to do it for me, even if it s written on a board in the embassy)

Yes you need the original one , the shipping cost by UPS (russia to china) costs 75 USD. WTR refuse to send it by standart post.

feel free to post me any question

fosseypierrick@yahoo.fr

rickchaw · Frequent Guest Joined: 28 Feb 2008 Posts: 10

Sorry THe second question I can help you

It last 1 day or 3 days or 5 days

you ve the choice between the 3 option.

I pay 30 euros for 5 days.
It s cheaper that in europe
At least in france (i m french)

Thomas Steve · Just Starting Joined: 17 Nov 2008 Posts: 1

Rules and regulations for tourist visas can vary from country to country - although the same principles apply in each case:
1. You will need a letter of invitation from a licensed Russian tour operator, together with a hotel voucher confirming your accommodation for the duration of your stay. These documents are in Russian language and difficult to check for many non-Russian speakers. These are provided by many online hotel booking services - Hotels can also provide these letters (usually at a cost), but bear in mind that you will need 1 letter for your whole stay...2 letters from hotels in Moscow and St Petersburg respectively will not normally be acceptable to a Russian Consulate.