Way to Russia Talk Lounge

Pavol

Hi,
I'm a citizen of Slovakia who has a permanent residency (Green Card) in the USA. This summer I met three Russian girls who worked in the summer camp in Pennsylvania and we became good friends. I'd like to go to see them this winter, so I wanted to ask how hard it is for me, as non-american who lives in America to get Russian visa. Now, I am going to visit Slovakia and from there I'd like to go to Russia. I assume I'd apply for Russian visa in Slovakia. Actually I can't apply in the USA because my passport expires in January, so I need a new one (it takes too long to get one if applied for in the States). I understand that in order to get Russian visa the passport cannot expire before 3 months after the visa expires, right? How long does it take from applying to receiving Russian Visa? Can they do it in one day? Or can I get the visa now, then a new passport and transfer the visa?
Another question(s) I have relates to the US visa for my Russian friends. I know that it is very difficult for them to get them, but I wanted to ask how I can help them. I sure can write them an invitation letter and offer a place to stay (my house), but would that be enough? Also, is there a certain way the invitation must be written? What else do I have to (or should) submit to increase the chances for my friends to get the visa? Any advise will be greatly appreciated. You can reply to this post or email me at pavol123@epix.net. (you can email me even if you can't help me and have some questions yourself, I'll be glad to answer, if I can). Thank you.

WayToRussia · Posted: Mon Oct 04, 2004 8:16 pm Post subject:

Hi, you can count about 2 weeks to get your Russian visa (from starting the invitation - applying for a visa - getting it in the consulate) -- I'd say this is a normal time.

You're right about the passport: it should expire not earlier than 3 months after your visa expires.

To invite your Russian friends to the USA: sorry, that's very hard. The US embassy in Moscow often refuses private invitations to Russians to the USA. A more safe bet is if they come on some kind of a conference, a fully booked tour, or on a special exchange / work-and-travel program.