Facts checked against official sources on 28 October 2026. Where something is not confirmed, we say so. Rules change — confirm with your university or the authority linked in each section.
The first study visa
To study you need an ordinary study visa. The first one is single-entry for 90 days: you can enter only once on it.
Official sources: HSE St Petersburg · before arrival · ConsultantPlus · study visa
Invitation from the university
Your university requests the invitation through the MVD migration department. Processing takes up to 20 working days (MVD Order No. 735); HSE’s experience is about a month. The state fee for the invitation is 960 ₽.
Official sources: MVD Order No. 735 · HSE St Petersburg · before arrival · Tax Code, art. 333.28 (state fees)
Extension in Russia
The study visa is extended as multi-entry for the period of study, each new one for no more than 1 year. Submit documents no later than 20 working days before the visa expires. Processing takes 4–6 weeks and you cannot leave Russia meanwhile (HSE). The fee for a multi-entry visa is 1,920 ₽.
Official sources: mos.ru · extending a visa · HSE St Petersburg · before arrival · Tax Code, art. 333.28 (state fees)
The unified e-visa: not for study
Single-entry, valid 120 days from issue, stay up to 30 days, issued in 4 calendar days. Purposes: private or business visit, tourism, events. It does not work for study or work.
64 countries can apply in 2026, including France, Portugal, China, India, Vietnam, Indonesia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Japan; in Africa — Zimbabwe, Kenya and Eswatini. Brazil is not on the list; whether a visa-free regime applies was not confirmed in this check.
Official sources: Unified e-visa · instructions · Unified e-visa · countries · Government · e-visa decree
Health insurance for the visa
You need a health insurance policy valid in Russia. A foreign policy is accepted only if the insurer has a contract with a Russian insurance or assistance company. Conditions for work, humanitarian and private visas were not checked separately.
Official sources: Consular Department (MFA) · health insurance · Consular Department (MFA)
Common questions from foreign students
Can I study on the e-visa?
No. It is for private or business visits, tourism and events; for study you need an ordinary study visa.
Can I travel home while my visa is being extended?
No: processing takes 4–6 weeks and you cannot leave Russia during that time.
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Written by Vlad Lario
Russian in Lisbon. I read both sides and write down what differs.
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