Travel Vaccines and Advice for Russia

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Russia. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Russia: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, tickborne encephalitis, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

Mosquito-borne diseases are less common in Russia than many other countries. This is due, at least in part, to the climate of many of the region. But, Japanese encephalitis is still a threat in some areas. Consult with a travel health specialist to learn if you’ll need this vaccine.

Tuberculosis is a large burden on Russia’s population. While risk to travelers is low, consider a two-step skin test or tuberculosis blood test after your trip if you believe you may have been exposed.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.

A passport and tourist visa are required for travel to Russia. The Russian government follows very strict visa and immigration laws. It is important to make sure your documents are in order before visiting the country.

Russia Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Russia?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Russia and U.S. State Department

Russian immigration policy can be difficult to navigate and violations could lead to expulsion from the country. Let Passport Health help you travel worry-free with our expert Passport and Visa Services.

Russia offers some of the most diverse landscapes and climate conditions of any country in the world. This, in part, is because of the country’s size. Research temperatures and conditions based where you will be going.

• Moscow – The capital city has cold winters and mild summers. From June through August, temperature are usually in the low 70’s. From November through February, they can drop to the low-teens and at times even sub-zero.
• St. Petersburg – July is the hottest month in St. Petersburg with highs in the low- to mid-60’s. January is the coldest month, with temperatures falling below freezing for the high.
• Siberia – One of the more popular destinations in Russia, Siberia offers a wide range of climates. The province hosts famously cold winters and warm, tropical summers. The first snow typically falls in early October. Rains are common throughout spring and early summer.

The most mild temperatures are along the Baltic Coast. The most varied temperatures occur in the Northern and Central regions of Russia.

According the U.S. State Department, terrorism remains a very real threat in Russia and throughout most of Europe. It is important to exercise caution throughout the country.

Political unrest is still a raging issue throughout many parts of Russia. Incidents have been reported of American travelers being kidnapped for ransom. Travelers must exercise caution while visiting the country.

Avoid travel to hot spots like Chechnya and the Chrimea as active hostilities are still ongoing and risks are high.

Popular tourist destinations like St. Petersburg and Moscow are safer to visit. But, petty and other crime is common. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid wearing anything that could make you a target.

Russia’s political climate is less open than many Western nations. Be careful what you say and where you say it to avoid confrontation.

Dargavs is located in the republic of North Ossetia in southern Russia. It lies in the middle of a mountain valley which stretches over 10 miles.

Hidden in the Caucasus mountains, the city is actually an ancient necropolis. Former residents buried their loved ones in this site.

Though the exact reason residents buried their family beneath the site remains unknown. The cryptic city continues to inspire myths and legends to this day.

The mysterious, abandoned area has been a muse for some of the world’s greatest poets and storytellers.

This region of southern Russia has been the site of some violent clashes in recent years. Take extra precautions if visiting this site.

As a leading global economy, Russia has many of the comforts travelers expect. But, there are still a few key items to make sure are in your bag.

• Money Belt – If you’re planning on visiting popular tourist attractions in places like Moscow or St. Petersburg, have a secure way to carry your money. These areas are typically crowded and pick-pocketing is a common occurrence. Be prepared and aware of your surroundings.
• Power Converter – Russia does not use the same power connectors or voltage as North America. Bring a converter if you’re planning on using any non-European electronics.
• Copy of Passport and Visa – It is best to carry a copy of both of these items with you at all times within Russia to avoid any issues with officials. While rare, situations have been known to occur.
• Sim Card – Travelers should consider purchasing a local sim card. The phone chip is useful should you make any international calls and will help to keep roaming charges down. Not all phones can accept these chips. Purchasing a local phone is a sometimes inexpensive option.

All Americans visiting Russia should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.

Once in Russia, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:

U.S. Embassy Moscow
Bolshoy Deviatinsky Pereulok No. 8
Moscow 121099
Russian Federation
Phone: +7 (495) 728-5000
Fax: 728-5090

Due to recent changes in U.S. foreign policy regarding Russia, embassy and consulate services may be limited. Visit the embassy website before your trip to learn the most current information.

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!