Student Visa Process for Russia: Step-by-Step Guide

Studying in Russia offers international students an excellent opportunity to gain high-quality education at affordable costs. With globally recognized degrees, modern facilities, and a wide range of English-medium programs, Russia has become a leading destination for students from Africa, Asia, and beyond. Before beginning your academic journey, securing a student visa is a crucial first step. The process may seem challenging, but with the expert support of RECAS (Russian Education Centre for African and Asian Students), it becomes straightforward and stress-free. This detailed guide is designed to help international students understand every stage of the Russian student visa process, from selecting a university and preparing documents to submitting your visa application, arriving in Russia, and completing registration.

Types of Russian Student Visas

Russia offers two main categories of student visas for international learners, depending on the nature and duration of their study program.

1. Long-Term Student Visa

This is the main visa type issued to international students who are admitted to full-time academic programs at Russian universities.

Duration: Initially issued for 90 days, extendable annually for the entire duration of your study.
Purpose: For full-time Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs at Russian universities.
Includes: Residence registration, legal stay, and renewal options.

2. Short-Term Academic Visa

This visa is designed for international students or researchers attending short-term academic activities in Russia, such as language courses, seminars, or internships.

Duration: 30 to 90 days.
Purpose: For short courses, academic conferences, internships.
Note: This visa is not suitable for full-degree programs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Russian Student Visa

Begin your journey by selecting a study program and university in Russia that aligns with your academic and career goals. With RECAS, you can access top-ranked institutions offering a wide range of programs in English and Russian.

Step 1: Choose Your Program and University

Start by selecting a program and university that suits your career goals. RECAS helps students apply to top Russian universities offering courses in: Medicine

Engineering
Computer Science
Business Administration
Architecture
International Relations

Step 2: Submit Your Application to RECAS

Once you’ve chosen your course, send your following documents to Russian Education Centre for African and Asian Students:

Completed application form (provided by RECAS)
Copy of your international passport (valid for at least 2 years)
Copy of higher secondary school certificate with subject details
Recent passport-size photo

RECAS reviews your documents and provides an Admission Confirmation Letter within 1–3 business days.

Step 3: Pay for the Invitation Letter

To begin the visa process, RECAS will help you obtain an official Invitation Letter from the university through Russia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs. The total fee for this service is $500.

Documents required:

Copy of passport
WAEC/NECO certificate
Application form
Pay Invitation Letter processing fee

Note: Processing takes about 40–45 days. RECAS will notify you once the Invitation Letter is ready.

Step 4: Apply for Your Russian Student Visa

With your Invitation Letter in hand, apply for your student visa at the Russian Embassy or Consulate.

Required Documents:

Completed visa application form
International passport (valid for 2+ years)
Original Academic certificate (legalized at Ministry of Education & Foreign Affairs)
HIV/AIDS test certificate (issued within last 3 months)
Original Invitation Letter
Recent passport-sized photographs (3.5 x 4.5 cm)
Visa application fee receipt

Step 5: Arrival in Russia

After receiving your visa, notify RECAS of your flight details at least 5–7 days before travel.

Upon arrival:

A RECAS representative will receive you at the airport.
Avoid entering Russia without prior notification to RECAS—failure to do so can result in deportation.

Step 6: Registration and University Enrollment

You must register your visa within 3 days of arriving in Russia. RECAS will assist with:

Registration with local immigration office
Final university enrollment
Medical checks (if required by university)
Visa extension for full academic year

Submit the following:

Original academic documents
Proof of tuition payment
Medical certificate
Passport with student visa

FAQs

Can I apply with WAEC or NECO results?

Yes. RECAS accepts both WAEC and NECO results for university applications in Russia, as long as you have at least 5 relevant credit passes.

Do I need to know Russian?

Not necessarily. Many universities offer programs in English, especially in medicine and engineering. RECAS can also arrange language preparatory courses.

How early should I apply for my visa?

Apply at least 2–3 months before your intended travel date to account for invitation processing, embassy appointments, and documentation.

Can I work in Russia as a student?

Yes. International students are allowed to work part-time with official permission, often within their institution or in specific roles.

Does RECAS help with accommodation?

Yes. RECAS provides full support, including airport pickup, accommodation arrangement, university registration, and health insurance.