Visa checks · updated 2026-08-17

United Kingdom visa for Russian citizens

Visa required
🇷🇺 Russian passport → 🇬🇧 United Kingdom: yes — a visa arranged in advance.

How it works

You'll need a visa arranged in advance through the embassy or consulate (or an authorised visa centre): application form, passport photos, fee, and often proof of funds, accommodation and onward travel. Start early — processing can take weeks.

Heads-up: United Kingdom commonly asks for proof of onward travel (airline check-in and border).

Before the airport: run the "Will I board?" checklist for this route →

Beyond United Kingdom: the Russia passport

The 🇷🇺 Russia passport ranks #76 of 199 worldwide, entering 117 destinations without a visa arranged in advance (see the world ranking).

Also visa-free on the Russia passport: 🇲🇩 Moldova (90 days), 🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina (30 days), 🇲🇪 Montenegro (30 days) — all 117 open destinations.

Going the other way? British citizens visiting Russia need a visa arranged in advance.

Never get caught out

Visa rules change with little notice. Get one email when United Kingdom changes its entry rules for Russian passports.

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Capital London · Currency British pound (£) · Dialling +44

Before you travel

Sorting your United Kingdom trip on the Russia passport:

See the whole picture

Every destination for the Russia passport, and everyone who can enter United Kingdom.

Russian passport: all destinations Who can enter United Kingdom Plan the trip