Tajik citizens traveling to Russia must now navigate new entry procedures introduced on June 30. The Russian government has launched a system requiring foreign visitors to submit an electronic travel notification before arrival. Based on guidance from the Russian Embassy in Dushanbe, here’s what travelers need to know.
What’s new?
Under the new regulations, foreigners must submit a pre-arrival notification indicating the purpose and duration of their stay in Russia. These rules are part of the second phase of a pilot program testing revised entry and exit protocols for foreign nationals. The experiment will run until June 30, 2026.
Is it mandatory?
No, submitting the notification is optional. According to the Russian Embassy in Dushanbe, not completing the form will not affect border control or result in denied entry. However, both the embassy and Tajikistan’s Migration Service strongly recommend submitting the form, as it offers several benefits:
- You can check in advance whether you are subject to any entry bans issued by Russia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs.
- A digital profile is created, enabling online access to services such as voluntary health insurance and self-employment registration.
- Upon entry, you are automatically issued a SNILS (individual insurance account number), which is required to purchase a SIM card in Russia.
How to submit the form
Travelers have two options:
- Via the Gosuslugi portal (for those already registered and with biometric data in Russia).
- Through the RuID mobile app (for new users). The app is available in both the App Store and Google Play. After downloading, users must register and create a personal account.
What information is required?
When filling out the form, you’ll need to specify:
- The country you’re arriving from;
- Your purpose of visit;
- Duration of your stay;
- Regions in Russia you plan to visit.
When should you notify authorities?
The form must be submitted no earlier than 90 days and no later than 72 hours before arrival. In urgent cases—such as medical emergencies or the death of a close relative—you may submit the form at least 4 hours before crossing the border, along with supporting documents.
What about children?
Yes, if you’re traveling with children, their details must be included in the application. If both parents are accompanying the children, each parent must enter the children’s information in their respective forms.
What documents are needed?
You must upload a biometric photo, a photo of your passport, and a voice sample (RuID only). If using Gosuslugi, only a photo is required. Once submitted, the system will verify your data. If there are no entry restrictions, you’ll receive a QR code in your personal account, which will serve as your digital entry pass.
