Which Countries Can You Travel To?

International tourism was hit hard in 2020, with borders closed to many countries because of the spread of COVID-19. However, as the peak of the epidemic gradually subsides, countries are reopening their borders after a long break, and this list continues to be updated.

Europe

The United Kingdom has been open to travel since 1 August. The visa application centre in Moscow is operating and issuing documents. However, strict measures remain in place and must be followed. Face masks are mandatory on public transport, with fines of up to £200 for non-compliance. The government is also considering introducing a curfew.

On arrival, travellers must self-isolate for 14 days. A form must be completed 48 hours before entering the United Kingdom, including the address where the traveller will be staying.

There are currently several direct flights, operated by a number of carriers a few times a day.

Montenegro's border was opened in September for travellers meeting the relevant entry requirements. Those who have not left Russia during the previous two weeks may enter Montenegro without a COVID test.

There are currently no direct flights to the country. Flights from Moscow or St Petersburg are available only with connections.

Experts predict that Serbia may attract travellers' attention. Many will want to admire the beauty of Belgrade, although the date for the resumption of travel links between the countries is not yet known. Talks between the authorities are expected to begin soon, as Serbia meets all safety criteria.

Foreign nationals can enter Serbia without difficulty, as nearly all restrictions have been lifted. The following rules remain in force: social distancing and wearing masks in public places. There are currently no direct flights, only connecting services.

Switzerland's borders are partially open to travellers from Russia. However, visa application centres are still not accepting visa applications. Ski resorts are open and ready to welcome guests. Strict pandemic restrictions and rules remain in force in Switzerland.

Entry is not permitted under any visa category. Exceptions are made only for several groups of people, such as students and those requiring care. Special permission from the Embassy of Switzerland is required.

There are several direct flights from Moscow.

Italy remains closed to most travellers from Russia. However, at the beginning of August, a decree was issued allowing entry for partners in a relationship. An invitation from the host is required. Arriving travellers must self-isolate for two weeks.

Aeroflot operates direct flights several times a week.

Travel to Greece has been possible since the beginning of September. The quota is no more than 500 travellers from Russia per week, although this number may increase.

A negative coronavirus test certificate is mandatory. Guests must complete a form and will receive a QR code; only passengers with this code are permitted to board the aircraft.

There are currently no direct flights, and none are planned.

Turkey was among the first countries to reopen its resorts to travellers from Russia. Some restrictions have affected the all-inclusive system: guests can no longer serve themselves, as waiters at food stations now serve dishes to guests. Mask rules remain in force throughout the country.
No test is required before travelling to Turkey, and testing is not required at the airport either.
Many airlines offer direct flights to Antalya and Istanbul.

CIS countries

The border with Belarus was not closed during the pandemic, but the two-week self-isolation period was lifted only recently.

Travellers arriving in Belarus must complete a self-declaration of health.

Flights operate daily from Moscow and St Petersburg.

Travel to Kazakhstan has been possible since late September. Hotels, restaurants, health resorts and many other venues are operating in the country.

On arrival, travellers must undergo a temperature check and complete a questionnaire. They must have a negative coronavirus test certificate issued no more than five days before departure. Without a certificate, travellers must take a test or self-isolate for two weeks.

There are currently no direct flights.

Kyrgyzstan has largely recovered from a severe outbreak and is beginning to welcome tourists again. However, a state of emergency remains in force, so almost all tourist sites are still closed.

A coronavirus test is not required, and direct flights operate frequently.

African and Middle Eastern countries

Tanzania reopened to travellers from Russia in August. The country has many national parks that have received COVID certification.
Entry is permitted without a COVID test, although some airlines may request one.
There are no direct flights.

Egyptian destinations such as Luxor and Cairo are also open, and many museums are operating.

The main entry requirement is a negative COVID test certificate issued no more than 72 hours before arrival. Travellers must also have an insurance policy covering treatment costs should illness be detected.

Direct flights are available from Moscow.

Flights to Sharjah and Dubai are open to travellers from Russia. Even with a negative test certificate, Abu Dhabi authorities require 14 days of self-isolation. Nearly all establishments are operating in these destinations and beaches are open, provided pandemic rules are followed, including mask-wearing and self-isolation where required.

Travellers must carry their test result and take another test at the airport.

Direct flights to Dubai are available from Moscow.

Morocco has also reopened its borders. The summer season has ended, but desert excursions are still available.

Travellers will need hotel booking confirmation and a negative coronavirus test certificate.

There are currently no direct flights.

Asian countries

The Maldives reopened in September.

The host country requires a negative test certificate, and travellers must also complete a health declaration.
There are direct flights from Moscow to Malé.

Flights to South Korea have been permitted since mid-autumn, although visa requirements remain in force.

A test must be taken before departure and again upon arrival in Korea. The two-week quarantine remains in place; accommodation is provided, but travellers must pay for their stay themselves.

Flights from Moscow to Seoul operate once a week.

Japan is planning to reopen from 1 November, but only for non-tourist travel, such as business trips, as the country has a high number of cases. Many events have been cancelled and numerous places remain closed.
Visas for Japan are not currently being issued.

United States

The country did not close its borders, but visa issuance was suspended except in emergency cases.

Rules vary depending on the state of arrival: some have restrictions, while others have less stringent measures. In most places, a two-week self-isolation period is mandatory.

Mexico also did not close its borders, and beaches and resorts have reopened.

The country does not require a negative COVID test certificate.