United States Tourist Visa
B1/B2 Visitor Visa · For Russia citizens
Planning a trip to the United States as a Russian citizen? This guide covers the B1/B2 visitor visa application process: required documents, current fees of $185 plus $250 integrity fee, interview requirements, and strategies to maximize approval chances. Due to suspended consular services in Russia, applications must be submitted at embassies in third countries.
US Tourist Visa for Russian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Russia citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the US
Complete the online DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form
Recent passport-style photograph meeting US visa requirements
Documentation proving ability to fund your trip
Evidence of stable employment to return to
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Russia
In-person interview at US Embassy or Consulate
Recommended (Optional)
Proposed travel plans and accommodation
Application Process
Due to suspended consular services in Russia, Russian citizens must apply for US visas at embassies in third countries.2 The primary designated locations are Astana (Kazakhstan) and Warsaw (Poland).
1. Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out the online DS-160 application at ceac.state.gov.1 Upload your photo and answer all questions about travel plans, employment, and background.
2. Pay Application Fee
Pay the $185 application fee plus the $250 visa integrity fee.3 Keep your receipt as you will need it to schedule your interview.
3. Schedule Interview
Create a profile on the embassy’s appointment system and schedule your visa interview. Wait times vary by location, so check availability early.4
4. Attend Interview
Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, and all supporting documents to your interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans and ties to Russia.1
5. Wait for Processing
If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa. Processing typically takes a few days after the interview, but may take longer if additional administrative processing is required.
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee (MRV) | $185 |
| Visa Integrity Fee | $250 |
| Total | $435 |
Fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome. Payment methods vary by embassy location.
What You Need to Prove
Under US immigration law, B1/B2 visa applicants must overcome the presumption of immigrant intent by demonstrating:1
- Temporary visit purpose: Clear, legitimate tourism or business reason
- Intent to depart: Strong ties to Russia that will compel your return
- Financial ability: Sufficient funds to cover all trip expenses
- Residence abroad: Established home and life outside the United States
Interview Tips
The visa interview is crucial for B1/B2 approval. Prepare for these common questions:
- Why do you want to visit the United States?
- How long do you plan to stay?
- Where will you be staying?
- How will you pay for your trip?
- What do you do for work?
- Do you have family in the United States?
Keep answers brief, honest, and confident. Provide additional details only if asked.
Processing Times
Processing times vary significantly by embassy location.4 After your interview:
- Approval: Most approved visas are ready within 3-5 business days
- Administrative Processing: Some cases require additional review, which can take weeks or months
Check the specific embassy website for current wait times before scheduling your appointment.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. Before traveling:
- Verify all information on the visa is correct
- Note the visa validity dates and number of entries
- Do not overstay the duration granted at entry
At the US border, you may be asked to show:
- Return travel arrangements
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of funds
- Details of your travel plans
If Your Visa is Refused
If refused under section 214(b), you were not able to demonstrate sufficient ties to Russia.1 You can:
- Reapply with additional evidence of ties and intent to return
- Wait for circumstances to change (new job, property purchase, etc.)
- Seek legal advice for complex situations
There is no formal appeal process for 214(b) refusals. Focus on strengthening weak areas of your application before reapplying.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Ties to Home Country
The consular officer was not convinced you have strong enough reasons to return to Russia after your visit, such as employment, property, or family.
How to avoid: Provide extensive documentation of employment, property ownership, family obligations, and other commitments that require your return to Russia.
Inadequate Financial Evidence
Unable to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover trip expenses without working illegally in the US.
How to avoid: Show 6 months of bank statements with consistent income. Include salary slips, tax returns, and any additional assets. Explain the source of all funds.
Unconvincing Interview Responses
Answers during the interview were vague, inconsistent, or raised concerns about true intent of visit.
How to avoid: Practice answering common interview questions. Be confident, clear, and consistent. Keep answers brief but complete.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in the US or other countries.
How to avoid: Be completely honest about past issues. Explain what has changed since previous refusals. Provide evidence of improved circumstances.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing or incorrect documents in the application package.
How to avoid: Create a checklist and verify all documents are included. Ensure all information is accurate and consistent across documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can Russian citizens apply for a US visa?
Due to suspended consular services in Russia, Russian citizens must apply at US embassies in third countries. The designated locations are Astana (Kazakhstan) and Warsaw (Poland). You must demonstrate residence in the country where you apply.
How long can I stay in the US on a B1/B2 visa?
The B1/B2 visa allows stays of up to 6 months per entry. The actual length of stay is determined by Customs and Border Protection officers at the port of entry and noted on your I-94 form.
What is the current US visa fee for Russian citizens?
The application fee is $185, plus a $250 visa integrity fee starting in FY2025. These fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.
How long is the wait for a US visa interview?
Wait times vary significantly by embassy location and can range from weeks to several months. Check current wait times at the specific embassy where you plan to apply. Russians applying at third-country embassies may face longer waits.
Can I work on a B1/B2 visa?
No, the B1/B2 visa does not permit any form of employment in the United States. Working without authorization can result in deportation and future visa ineligibility.
Do I need to book flights before the visa interview?
No, you should not book non-refundable travel before your visa is approved. Having flexible travel plans is acceptable during the interview.
What happens if my US visa is denied?
If denied, you will receive a refusal under section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, meaning the officer was not convinced of your nonimmigrant intent. You can reapply at any time with additional documentation to overcome the refusal reasons.
How long is a US B1/B2 visa valid?
Visa validity varies. Russian citizens may receive visas valid for up to 3 years with multiple entries, though this is subject to reciprocity and individual circumstances.