India Offers Free 30-Day e-Visa for Russian Tourists

India introduces a free 30-day e-tourist visa and group visa for Russian nationals, boosting India–Russia tourism, easing travel procedures, and strengthening strategic ties. Key update for travel agents and B2B tourism planners.

India Unveils Major Visa Relaxation for Russian Tourists

In a significant diplomatic and tourism development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a free 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens.
The announcement was made during the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit in New Delhi, held during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s State visit on 4–5 December 2025.

This move marks a major milestone in simplifying travel between the two nations and opens new opportunities for tourism growth, aviation demand, and B2B travel planning.

Strengthening a 25-Year Strategic Partnership

Both leaders reviewed 25 years of the India–Russia Strategic Partnership, reaffirming their commitment to deepen cooperation across political, economic, security, scientific and cultural platforms.
They highlighted the consistency, trust and long-term vision that define their Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.

For travel and aviation stakeholders, this enhanced partnership signals growing connectivity, smoother entry processes, and expanding bilateral tourism.

Key Visa Announcements for Russian Nationals

During the joint press conference, PM Modi confirmed:

“We will soon introduce a free 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens.”

This policy is set to:

• Boost inbound tourism from Russia

• Strengthen leisure, MICE, and group travel flows

• Support travel agents, DMCs and consolidators handling Russia-India routes

• Complement India’s ongoing push to enhance e-visa capabilities globally

The decision also aligns with India’s focus on expanding cooperation in new sectors, including maritime training in extreme climatic regions.

Easier Travel, Simplified Documentation

India and Russia reaffirmed their commitment to simplifying visa procedures on both sides. This includes:

• Continued progress on mutual e-visa systems

• Streamlining travel documentation

• Further future easing of entry requirements

For B2B travel companies, this development reduces friction in itinerary planning and makes India a more accessible destination for Russian travelers.

Cultural, Educational & People-to-People Exchange to Rise

The summit emphasised the growing importance of cultural and academic ties. Both countries appreciated increased participation in:

• Cultural forums and festivals

• Joint film productions and cinema exchanges

• Book fairs and cross-cultural events

Student mobility is also witnessing momentum. Leaders reiterated the importance of stronger university partnerships and ensuring safety and support for Indian and Russian students studying abroad.

Recent cultural initiatives highlighted by PM Modi include:

• Opening of two new Indian consulates in Russia

• Public display of holy Buddhist relics transported to Russia

These steps, combined with visa simplification, aim to deepen people-to-people bonds.

Why This Matters for B2B Travel Professionals

For travel agents, consolidators, and aviation planners, the introduction of a free e-tourist visa for Russians is a catalyst for:

• Higher inbound traffic across key metros and leisure circuits

• Increased group bookings and fixed departures

• Stronger demand for India-Russia airline capacity

• Better opportunities for partnerships with Russian tour operators

The simplified visa regime directly supports itinerary building, pricing competitiveness, and customer convenience.

Conclusion: A New Era of India–Russia Travel Growth

India’s decision to offer free short-term e-visas to Russian nationals underscores its commitment to building stronger bilateral ties and boosting tourism flows. For the B2B travel community, this development provides fresh opportunities to expand client offerings, design new packages, and strengthen cross-border collaborations.

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