UK Visa for Russian Citizens and Girlfriend in 2024: Fees & TipsThis guide offers an extensive overview of the application process, fees, and entry requirements in Russia, including detailed information for tourist, student, and spouse visa categories. Designed to aid Russian citizens and their partners in navigating the UK visa system, it provides clear insights into the costs and timelines involved. A six-month tourist visa comes at US$145, while the fees for student and spouse visas are US$619 and US$2,332, respectively. For expedited processing, a priority service fee of US$632 applies, with an average processing time of three weeks post-biometric submission.
Table of Contents
1. UK Visa from Russia 2024
Russian citizens who intend to visit, work, or study in the UK must secure the proper visa. Visa requirements differ based on the visa type.
UK Visa for Russian Citizens Cost
The cost of a UK visa for Russian citizens varies according to the visa type. Specifically, tourist visas cost US$145, student visas US$619, and spouse visas US$2,332.
UK Visa Processing Time in Russia
In 2024, standard processing times for non-settlement visas such as tourist, study, and work visas typically range around 3 weeks. Opting for priority service can reduce this time to 5 working days for an additional US$632.
After biometric data submission, the usual processing period for spouse, partner, or family settlement visas is approximately 12 weeks. However, there’s a priority service option that cuts down the processing time to 6 weeks, for an additional charge of US$632.
The super-priority service fee for next-working-day processing is US$1,263, although this service is currently unavailable in Russia.
Cost of Travel to UK from Russia
Solo travelers from Russia to the UK requires a budget ranging from US$1,750 to US$5,225 per individual for a 7-15 day trip. Russian couples can expect costs ranging from US$3,500 to US$10,500, while Russian families of four might spend anywhere between US$7,000 and US$21,000.
How long can a Russian stay in the UK?
Visitor visas permit Russians a stay of up to 180 days per UK visit. For other visa types like spouse, student, and work visas, the length of stay corresponds with the visa’s validity. Extensions are possible by meeting Leave to Remain (LTR) requirements. Pathways such as the Skilled Worker and Innovator visas can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), eventually progressing to British citizenship.
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2. UK Tourist Visa for Russian Citizens 2024
Russians must apply for a visa to enter the United Kingdom. The only exception is for Russians with dual citizenship from visa-exempt countries like the USA, Australia, New Zealand, or EU Member States.
Standard Visitor Visa from Russia to UK
The standard visitor visa allows Russians to engage in various activities, including tourism, family visits, business engagements, and short-term studies. Understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial before submitting an application.
The UK immigration process involves examining various factors, such as the motivation behind the visit, the visitor’s financial capacity, and their plans for stay and subsequent departure.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 34,833 Russians applied for visitor visa UK. Out of 32,594 resolved applications, 27,520 visit visas were granted to Russian nationals, and 3,613 applications were rejected. Therefore, the UK visitor visa success and refusal rate from Russia are 84.43% and 11.08%, respectively.
Cost of Visit Visa from Russia to UK
In 2024, the UK visa application fees from Russia are categorized as follows: US$145 for a 6-month visa, US$505 for a 2-year visa, US$974 for a 5-year visa, and US$1,217 for a 10-year visa. All these visa categories limit your stay to a maximum of 180 days per visit.
Russian nationals can expect the standard visitor visa processing to take approximately three weeks. For expedited service, there is a one-week priority option at US$632 and a next working day super priority at US$1,263.
Tourist Visa to UK from Russia
For Russian applicants, obtaining a UK tourist visa involves filling an online application form, remitting the visa fee, and visiting a visa application center for biometric data. They must also submit various additional supporting documents.
Required Documentation for Tourist Visa to UK from Russia
- Proof of intent to return to Russia, supported by employment or educational commitments
- Bank statements verifying adequate funds for the stay
- A detailed travel itinerary and proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations
Show Money for UK Tourist Visa for Russian Citizens
Applicants must prove they have sufficient funds—typically between GBP 3,000-5,000—to cover all expenses for the UK trip. The required amount varies depending on the number of travelers and the trip’s duration.
Can My Russian Girlfriend Visit Me in the UK?
A Standard UK Visitor Visa is required for your Russian girlfriend to visit the UK. The process involves an online application, payment of the visa fee, and biometric data submission.
London Visa Requirements for Russian Citizens
For journeys aimed solely at London, opt for the standard visitor visa. The process includes completing an online application, verifying your documents, and submitting biometric data.
Other Visit Visa from Russia to UK
| Visa Type for Russian Citizens | UK Visa Fees Russia 2024 |
|---|---|
| Marriage Visitor Visa: For Russian citizens to get married or registering civil partnership in the UK. Duration: Up to 180 days. | US$145 |
| Private Medical Treatment Visa: For Russians to get private medical treatment in the UK lasting 6-11 months. Note: Attendants must apply separately. | US$253 |
| Visiting Academics: For Russian academic professionals engaging in research or educational exchanges for up to 12 months. | US$253 |
| Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE): For Russian professionals to perform short-term paid tasks like lecturing or assessing, available for up to 30 days. | US$145 |
| Parent of Child Student Visa: For Russian parents of children in fee-paying day schools in the UK. Duration: 12 months. | US$805 |
| Transit Visas for Russian Citizens: For brief stops in the UK while transiting to another country. Includes Airside Transit and Visitor in Transit visas. | Airside Transit: US$44 Visitor in Transit: US$81 |
3. Study in UK from Russia 2024
The UK Student Visa permits Russians to pursue a range of educational opportunities in the UK, from higher education to Student Union roles.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 2,038 Russians applied for student visa UK. 1,852 applications resolved, 1,790 student visas granted to Russians, and 27 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK student visa success and refusal rate for Russians are 96.65% and 1.46%, respectively.
UK Student Visa Fees for Russians
The standard UK Student Visa fee is US$619, with a processing time of around 3 weeks. Expedited service is available for an additional US$632.
All students must also pay the Immigration Health Charge (IHS) at £624 annually.
Short-term English Language Visa from Russia to UK
The short-term study visa is designed for Russians studying English in the UK for 6-11 months, costing US$253. A 6-month course costs US$145.
Work Rights for Russian Students
- For degree-level students, 20 hours of work per week is allowed during term times, and they can opt for full-time work during their breaks.
- For sub-degree level courses, the limit is 10 hours per week.
- Dependents of degree-level students can work; however, those of sub-degree students cannot.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Russian graduates can avail a 2-year post-study work visa. PhD holders can get a 3-year visa.
4. Family Visas for the UK for Russians 2024
The family route is for those Russians who can apply for a UK visa because of their relationship to a person settled in the UK or a British citizen. This includes spouse settlement visa, adult dependent relative, parent of a British Child visa etc.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 620 Russians applied for family settlement visa UK. 340 applications resolved, 314 family settlement visas granted to Russians, and 18 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK family (spouse) settlement visa success and refusal rate from Russia are 92.35% and 5.29%, respectively.
UK Spouse or Partner Visa for Russian Citizens
- Visa Requirements for Russians: Russian applicants need to adhere to the Appendix FM of the UK Immigration Rules. Essential for the UK Spouse Visa are proving a genuine relationship, financial stability, secure housing, and English language skills.
- Duration and Extension for Russians: The spouse visa is granted for 33 months and can be extended for an additional 30 months. Russian citizens can apply for ILR after 5 years, provided all conditions are continuously met. A longer 10-year route to settlement is available under certain circumstances, such as not meeting financial or English proficiency requirements.
- Visa Application Fees in Russia: The base fee for spouse visa applications from Russia is US$2,332. For expedited processing within 6 weeks, an additional fee of US$632 is required, bringing the total to US$2,964.
Other Family Visa from Russia to UK:
| Visa Category | UK Visa Fees Russia 2024 |
|---|---|
| Fiancé(e) Visa For Russians intending to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK. Valid for 6 months. | US$2,332 |
| Parent of a British Child Visa For Russians who are the sole caregivers of a British child. | US$2,332 |
| Adult Dependent Relative Visa For Russians requiring long-term care from a UK-based relative. | US$4,106 |
| Returning Residents Visa For Russians who have previously been settled in the UK and wish to return. | US$805 |
5. UK Work Visa for Russian Citizens 2024
The primary route for Russians seeking UK employment is through the Skilled Worker Visa. Other options include visas like Innovator, Startup, Global Business Mobility, and Health and Care Worker.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 6,671 Russians applied for work visa UK. 5,723 applications resolved, 5,027 work visas granted to Russian nationals, and 635 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK work visa success and refusal rate from Russia are 87.84% and 11.10%, respectively.
Skilled Worker Visa UK for Russian Citizens
Russians can work in the UK under the Skilled Worker Visa. This visa is for those sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor for specific skilled roles. It offers a path to permanent UK settlement. The cost of the UK work visa for Russian in 2024 stands at US$908 for up to three years and US$1,794 for longer durations.
The Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation) Visa fees in Russia is US$696 for up to three years and US$1,370 for durations longer than three years.
Health and Care Work Visa UK from Russia
This visa is specifically designed for qualified doctors, nurses, or allied health professionals from Russia who are sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor. It also provides a route to permanent UK settlement. The UK Work Visa for Russian cost for this category in 2024 is US$359 for up to three years and US$696 for more extended periods.
Global Business Mobility Visa to UK for Russian Citizens
This is an overview of the UK work visas available for Russian citizens under the Global Business Mobility category, along with the respective fees for 2024.
| Visa Category | UK Visa Fees Russia 2024 |
|---|---|
| Senior or Specialist Worker Visa Ideal for senior managers or specialists from Russia transferring to a UK branch. | – Up to three years US$908 – Longer than three years US$1,794 |
| Graduate Trainee Visa For Russian individuals in graduate training programs leading to specialist roles in the UK. | US$377 |
| UK Expansion Worker Visa For Russian specialists or senior personnel looking to expand a business into the UK. | US$377 |
| Service Supplier Visa For Russian professionals providing services under UK trade agreements. | US$377 |
| Secondment Worker Visa Specifically for Russians seconded to the UK for significant contracts or investments. | US$377 |
Other Work and Business Visas UK from Russia:
Below is a brief overview of various UK visa categories along with their associated fees for Russians looking to work or do business in the UK.
| Visa Category | UK Visa Fees Russia 2024 |
|---|---|
| Start-Up Visa For Russians starting an innovative business in the UK. | US$550 |
| Innovator Visa For Russians with innovative, viable, and scalable businesses. Requirements include an endorsement, £50,000 investment, and B2 IELTS level. | US$1,505 |
| Innovator Founder Visa (Introduced 2023) Ideal for Russian entrepreneurs. Simplified process with endorsement approval, could lead to UK family residency. | – Endorsement US$1,263 – Application US$1,505 |
| Investor Visa For high-value Russians investing in the UK. | US$2,380 |
| High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa For Russian graduates from top-50 global universities seeking employment in the UK. | US$1,039 |
| Scale-Up Visa For Russians with a job offer from an authorised UK scale-up company. Leads to potential UK settlement after 5 years. | US$1,039 |
| Global Talent Visa For Russians who are leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, or digital technology. | – Approval Letter for initial application from Russia: US$662 – Russian Main Applicant with Approval Letter: US$243 – Main Applicant without Approval Letter and for Dependants: US$905 |
| T2 Minister of Religion Visa For Russians intending to undertake preaching and pastoral work. | US$908 |
| International Sportsperson Visa For elite Russian sportspersons or coaches contributing to UK sports. Fee varies based on Certificate of Sponsorship duration. | – Up to 12 months CoS US$377 – More than 12 months CoS US$908 |
| T5 (Temporary Worker) Visa For Russians in various sectors, such as seasonal, religious, or creative workers. | US$377 |
6. UK Visa for Russian Girlfriend 2024
Entry Requirements for Girlfriend Visa UK
If the purpose is tourism, then the pertinent UK visa for Russian girlfriend is the standard visitor visa. However, if the intentions are to get married then a Russian girlfriend needs to apply for UK marriage visitor visa. Nevertheless, if the intentions are to live permanently together and settlement in the UK then a Russian girlfriend needs to apply for fiancé or spouse/civil partner visa.
UK Visa for Russian Girlfriend Cost
The cost of UK visa for Russian girlfriend depends on the type of the application. If the Russian girlfriend is applying for tourist or 6-month visit visa, then the cost of UK visa is US$145. However, if the Russian girlfriend is applying for spouse visa, then the UK visa cost is US$2,332.
Can My Russian Girlfriend Work in the UK?
Russian girlfriend cannot work in the UK on a visitor or tourist visa. However, if Russian girlfriend is on a family settlement visa, then can work in the UK. Moreover, for working in the UK Russian girlfriend can apply for work visas such as Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, Global Business Mobility etc.
UK Visa Invitation Letter for Russian Girlfriend
[Your Full Name]
[Your Full Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
[UK Visa Application Centre Address]
To Whom It May Concern,
Re: Invitation Letter for [Girlfriend’s Full Name], Passport No: XXXXXXX
I hereby confirm my invitation to my girlfriend, [Girlfriend’s Full Name], for a [length of the visit, e.g., 2 weeks] visit to the United Kingdom to [purpose, e.g., spend holidays and engage in tourist activities]. She will be staying at my home during this time. As a [Your Nationality] citizen working as a [Your Occupation], I am fully prepared to host her.
We have been in a genuine relationship for [length of your relationship, e.g., 2 years]. I am financially stable, earning an annual salary of [Your Salary], and am fully capable of accommodating and supporting her during her stay in the UK.
Accommodation:
[Girlfriend’s Full Name] will be staying at my residence located at [Your Full Address].
Financial Support:
I will take on the financial responsibilities for her entire stay, including round-trip flight costs, internal transportation, lodging, and daily living expenses.
Sponsorship Documents:
I am providing the following documents to support this invitation:
- Photocopy of my passport and UK residence permit.
- Bank statements for the last 3 months.
- Proof of address (utility bill or lease agreement).
- Return flight booking confirmation for [Girlfriend’s Full Name].
Her travel details are as follows:
- Arrival: [Arrival Date]
- Departure: [Departure Date]
- Flight: [Flight details]
I earnestly request you to grant her the necessary visa to visit me in the United Kingdom.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Full Name]
7. How to Apply for UK Visa from Russia?
A comprehensive guide tailored for Russians outlining the steps to apply for a UK visa. Follow this guide from determining your visa type to getting ready for your UK trip. Note: The estimated cost is based on a UK visitor visa, and priority service could shorten the process to 15 working days from 30.
Total Time: 30 days
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Determine the Visa Type
Firstly, ascertain the specific visa category that aligns with your reason for traveling from Russia to the UK.
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Create an Online Account
Head to the official website for UK visa and immigration and open an account on the UK Visas and Immigration platform.
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Fill Out the Application Form
Russian nationals must ensure they accurately complete the specific online application form, with all details correctly aligning with their supporting documents.
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Pay the Application Fee
Russian applicants who complete the UK visa application form will be taken by the UKVI online system to a secure payment gateway to finalize their application fee transaction.
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Assemble Your Supporting Documents
Depending on the type of visa, collect key documents such as your Russian passport, proof of financial status, and UK accommodation details.
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Schedule a VAC Appointment in Russia
Russians are not qualified to use the Immigration App for identity verification. As a result, it’s vital to book an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (UKVAC) in Russia.
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Attend the VAC Appointment
Go to the nearest UKVAC, bringing all supporting documents, and follow through with biometric verification as per your appointment instructions.
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Await Visa Decision
After your UK visa application is submitted, it goes into processing. The decision is usually made within 3 weeks, but with the priority service, it takes only 5 working days.
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Passport Collection or Delivery
You can either collect your passport with the visa from the VAC or opt for a courier service for delivery.
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Prepare for Your UK Journey
With your visa secured, plan your UK travel and familiarize yourself with the terms of your visa.
Estimated Cost: 145 USD
Supply:
- Application form
- Valid Russian Passport
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Payment for visa fee in USD
- Proof of UK accommodation
Tools:
- Internet access
- Russian Passport
- Financial documents
Materials: Reproductions of original documents, Printed application receipt, Envelope for posting documents.
UK Visa Application Centres in Russian Federation
Here’s the requested information presented in a two-column table:
| City | Address of UK Visa Application Centre |
|---|---|
| Moscow | Delta Plaza, Bldg 1, 2nd Syromyatnichesky Lane, Moscow, Russia, 105120 |
| St. Petersburg | Business center ‘Preobrazhensky Dvor’, 1st floor, 26, Liteiny prospect, St. Petersburg, Russia, 191028 |
| Rostov-on-Don | Liga Naciy, 91 Suvorova street, Rostov-on-Don, Russia, 344022 |
| Ekaterinburg | 70, Bolshakova street, office 601, 6th floor, Ekaterinburg, Russia, 620142 |
| Novosibirsk | 57, Sibirskaya street, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630132 |
For further details please refer to find a visa application centre.
8. UK Visa Supporting Documents Checklist from Russia
Primary Documentation
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for the duration of your UK stay.
- Application Form: Completed on the UK Visas and Immigration portal.
- Proof of Accommodation: Details of your UK stay.
- Financial Proof: Evidence of financial capability.
- Travel Itinerary: Outline of travel plans.
- Proof of Ties to Russia: To show intent to return.
- English Language Proficiency: When required, generally via an accredited test.
For Your Information: Here is a list of the essential primary documents needed for any UK visa category. Be sure to check the specific criteria for your type of visa to understand if there are any more documents required.
Documentation Based on Visa Type
- Work Visas: Includes employment offer and Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Study Visas: Requires Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
- Family Visas: Requires relationship proofs.
- Tourist Visas: Additional trip details may be necessary.
For UK-Based Sponsors
Supplying documents from a UK sponsor can uplift your visa application, particularly in sponsorship-required categories like family or work visas.
- Letter of Invitation
- Sponsor’s Immigration Status
- Financial Documents
- Accommodation Proof
- Relationship Evidence
Remember: Sponsor documents are supplementary; meeting the primary visa criteria is crucial.
9. FAQs: UK Visa for Russian Citizens 2024
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How much is UK Visa Fee in Russia?
UK visa fee requirements in Russia depends on the type of application. For instance, UK tourist, student, and spouse visa fees in Russia are US$145, US$619, and US$2,332, respectively.
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How Long Does It Take to Process UK Visa in Russia?
In 2024, non-settlement visit, study, and work visa application processing time in Russia is usually 3-weeks. UK priority non-settlement visit, study, and work applications processing time from Russia is normally 5 working days. The additional cost of UK priority (non-settlement) visa service from Russia is US$632.
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What is Spouse Settlement Visa Processing Time for Russians?
The UK settlement visa processing time after biometrics from Russia for spouse, partner, family applications are usually within 12 weeks. Spouse priority settlement visa processing time for Russian passport holders is 6-weeks. The additional cost of UK priority settlement visa service from Russia is US$738.