Way to Russia Talk Lounge

JohnDaniel · Just Starting Joined: 20 Sep 2004 Posts: 5

I need information about the new Student Visa application process.

Please provide updated information about all the documents, which are required for receiving a Student Visa from the Russian Consulate in Asian countries.

I've already received a faxed copy of the admission letter from the university, however I've been informed that more documents are currently required before receiving the Entry Visa for Moscow city.

What are the documents other that the original admission letter that would be required during the Visa application process?

What is the usual time period required for receiving the new security clearance letter from the local security authorities?

Is the confirmed airline ticket required during the Student Visa application process?

WayToRussia · Posted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 5:56 pm Post subject:

There are no "Entry Visas for Moscow City", you can only get a Russian visa, which is valid to the whole territory, except some areas with restricted entry (usually border zones and small towns conducting scientific researches).

Apart from admission letter, you need an invitation (issued by Ministry of Foreign Affair) to get your Russian visa. Your school should apply to MFA for this invitation.

JohnDaniel · Just Starting Joined: 20 Sep 2004 Posts: 5

Thank you for the immediate response!

I'll be joining the People Friendship University which is a state university - Do state universities require to provide an invitation from the Ministry of Forgein Affairs for the application process? The admission letter also states that it's an Invitation Letter that has to be taken alongwith the passport during the Visa application process.

(Many of the previous students from Mumbai were granted the Entry Visa based solely on a faxed admission letter.)

I've also been informed by the university about an additional letter that is provided by the security authorities - This was instituted after the terrible Beslan massacare. How much time does this security clearance process require?

Is the confirmed airline ticket required during the Student Visa application process?

WayToRussia · Posted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 1:17 am Post subject:

Hi,

Here's a reply from the Russian company that specializes in organizing studies in Russia - SRAS (http://www.sras.org), maybe some of this info will be helpful...

Dear John,

To our knowledge, many of the Russian consulates based in Asia will often
ask for the original contract signed between you and the university, an
additional letter of invitation (on the school's letterhead - not just the
official invitation certificate), and sometimes even proof that the studies
have been paid in advance.

It sounds like you do not have the letter that you are calling "security
clearance". This is the letter of visa support that is issued by the
Ministry of Internal Affairs based on a request from the university. It is a
yellow/orange certificate. You absolutely must have this and it takes most
universities 4-6 weeks to generate this document from the moment they have
all your passport information (and passport copy).

Usually a plane ticket is not required.

Regards,
Renee Stillings
Director, SRAS

JohnDaniel · Just Starting Joined: 20 Sep 2004 Posts: 5

Thank you for the detailed reply!

I am now rather worried about whether the local agency will actually provide the admission - They should have known about these document requirements! There have lately been many incidents in our city - Where the agency disappears after collecting the advance payment.

I again thank the WTR team for all information.