The Russian government has introduced a significant travel development for Kenyan citizens by streamlining its visa application process.
In a statement released on Sunday, December 8, the Russian Embassy in Kenya announced the inclusion of Kenya in its expanded e-visa program.
This initiative aims to simplify travel by allowing Kenyans to apply for single-entry electronic visas online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to the embassy.
Previously, obtaining a Russian visa involved lengthy procedures, but the e-visa system now enables applicants to complete the entire process including submitting an application, uploading documents, and paying fees within a few days.
The e-visa grants travelers a 16-day stay in Russia, suitable for tourism, business, or cultural purposes.
“Kenya has joined a select group of African nations, including Eswatini and Zimbabwe, whose citizens are now eligible to visit the Russian Federation with a single electronic visa,” the embassy stated.
This development marks a significant milestone in Russia’s efforts to enhance accessibility for African nations.
Kenyan travelers holding an e-visa can now visit Russia for purposes such as attending cultural, scientific, or sporting events, as well as private, business, or tourism-related trips.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has been a strong advocate for expanding the e-visa program, emphasizing its role in attracting global talent.
In January, he directed the government to develop measures that encourage leading researchers and specialists, including foreign nationals, to engage in research and development in Russia.
For over a year, travelers from 56 countries have benefited from the e-visa platform on evisa.kdmid.ru.
Kenya now joins this growing list, with access to 98 designated entry points across Russia, including major international airports such as Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo, and Zhukovsky in Moscow, Pulkovo in St. Petersburg, and Tolmachevo in Novosibirsk.
The e-visa expansion underscores Russia’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and boosting its tourism and business sectors.
Email your news TIPS to Editor@NairobiNews.co.ke