Russia, India explore visa-free travel for tourist groups

Russian and Indian authorities are in discussions to introduce a visa-free regime for tourist groups traveling between the two countries, Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development told local media.

The plan would allow groups to travel without a visa for up to 21 days.

The proposal, initiated and drafted by the Russian side, would apply to groups of three to 50 people. “The process is moving forward, but not as quickly as we would like. Our partners cite a complex internal approval process with the competent authorities,” the ministry said.

Currently, Russian citizens can apply for a free electronic tourist visa (e-Tourist Visa) to India, which is issued online. This visa permits stays of up to 30 days with double entry. Russians can also obtain one-year or five-year visas, with fees starting at $40.

Tourist traffic between India and Russia reached 143,000 trips last year, marking a 15% increase compared to 2024. Russians accounted for 85,600 trips, while Indian citizens made 57,600 visits.

Association of Tour Operators of Russia believes that implementing a visa-free regime for tourist groups could more than double organized tourist flows from India.

By Vafa Guliyeva