Russia to Introduce Visa-Free Travel for Indian Tourists in 2025

In development for tourism, Indian tourists may soon travel to Russia without a visa, which could commence in spring 2025, following discussions between Russia and India aimed at facilitating easier travel for tourists.

Recent Developments in Travel Arrangements

In June 2024, officials from Russia and India met to negotiate a visa-free travel deal. This initiative seeks to promote group tourist exchanges without the need for visas. The proposal follows the introduction of e-visas for Indian travelers in August 2023.

E-Visas and Their Popularity

Since the introduction of e-visas, Indian citizens have benefitted. In 2023, approximately 9,500 e-visas were issued to Indians, accounting for 6% of the total e-visas issued by Russia. The processing time for these e-visas is just four days, making travel more accessible.

Increase in Indian Visitors to Russia

The number of Indian visitors to Russia has risen dramatically. In 2023, over 60,000 Indians visited Moscow, representing a 26% increase from the previous year. Most of these visitors travel for business or work-related purposes.

By early 2024, India emerged as the third-largest source of business tourists from non-CIS countries. Nearly 1,700 e-visas were issued to Indian business travellers in the first quarter alone, denoting the growing interest in Russia as a business destination.

Existing Visa-Free Arrangements

Russia currently permits visa-free travel for citizens of China and Iran, effective from August 2023. This successful initiative has encouraged Russia to consider extending similar benefits to Indian tourists.

Global Visa-Free Travel for Indian Passport Holders

Indian passport holders enjoy visa-free access to 62 countries, showcasing the increasing global mobility of Indian citizens. The potential for visa-free travel to Russia would further enhance these opportunities.

GKToday Facts for Exams:

1. E-Visas E-visas for Indian citizens were introduced in August 2023. They are processed within four days, improving travel accessibility to Russily for Indian tourists.
2. CIS Countries The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) includes former Soviet republics. It plays important role in regional cooperation and economic integration among its member states.
3. Business Tourism India became the third-largest source of business tourists from non-CIS countries in early 2024. This reflects growing interest in Russia as a business destination for Indian travellers.
4. Visa-Free Program Russia’s visa-free program began in August 2023 for citizens of China and Iran. Its success has prompted discussions about extending similar benefits to Indian tourists.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2024

Category: International / World Current Affairs