Risk level

Safety and security

Areas bordering Ukraine

The Russian government has declared martial law and maintains a significant military presence in areas bordering Ukraine. This includes the following oblasts:

• Rostov
• Bryansk
• Kursk
• Belgorod
• Voronezh
• Krasnodar

The situation along the Ukrainian border is unpredictable and could change quickly. Exercise extreme vigilance if you must travel to this region.  Armed clashes, drone and missile strikes and military activity pose serious threats to your safety.

If you are currently in this area, you should strongly consider leaving. The ability of the Embassy of Canada in Moscow to provide consular assistance in areas bordering Ukraine is extremely limited.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist groups have called for attacks on Russian soil. Incidents resulting in death and injury have occurred most frequently in the North Caucasus region, Moscow and St. Petersburg, but may happen throughout the country. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• cultural venues, including concert halls, nightclubs, and event centres
• places of worship
• Russian airlines, airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Russian authorities have increased general security measures in Moscow and other large cities. Counter-terrorism operations, curfews, and other restrictions could lead to disruptions with little or no notice.

North Caucasus Region

The security situation in many areas of the North Caucasus Region is unstable and unpredictable.

Republics of Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia, and Stavropol Krai

Terrorist attacks are frequent in the republics of Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia and in the Stavropol region.  Suicide bombings occur on a regular basis and targeted assassinations have also taken place. Unexploded mines and munitions are widespread. Kidnapping for ransom is also common.

You must obtain special permission from the Ministry of the Interior to enter certain areas and regions.

Republics of Kabardino-Balkaria (including the Mount Elbrus region), Karachai-Cherkessia and North Ossetia

Tensions are high in Russia’s border regions with Georgia and may affect the security situation in republics of Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachai-Cherkessia and North Ossetia. Military operations are carried out with little or no notice and are accompanied by travel restrictions. Border crossings with Azerbaijan and Georgia are subject to frequent and sometimes lengthy closures.

Crime

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs frequently, sometimes targeting foreigners of non-European descent. Incidences include:

• armed robberies
• assault
• murder

During your stay:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• avoid going out after dark
• avoid isolated areas
• don't resist an attack

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs frequently, especially in cities. Criminals, including groups of children and teenagers, use various techniques to distract the victims, including requests for help. In such situations, walk away quickly. Preferred areas for criminals include:

• underground walkways
• buses and trains,
• bus and train stations and airports
• popular tourist areas
• restaurants and public markets
• hotel rooms and residences, even when occupied and locked

During your trip:

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents in a secure place
• don’t show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery
• be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas

Replacing travel documents and visas is difficult and could considerably delay your return to Canada.

Organized crime

Organized criminal groups are active throughout Russia, particularly in large cities. Extortion and corruption are common business practices, including among foreign businesses. Criminals demand protection money from their victims under threat of serious violence. You should report extortion attempts to Russian authorities.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur occasionally. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Unauthorized demonstrations have occurred across the country since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Many demonstrators have been arrested. If you are close to a demonstration, you may be detained by the Russian authorities for questioning.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for the latest information

Useful links

• More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
• Laws regarding minors involved in demonstrations

Spiked food and drinks

There are reports of criminals adding drugs into items that could put you at risk of sexual assault or robbery.

Items include:

• food and drink
• gum
• cigarettes
• hand sanitizer
• cosmetics

Incidents are most likely to occur:

• in nightclubs
• in bars and restaurants
• on public transportation, including taxis on the street

While you’re in Russia: 

• be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• order drinks that come in sealed bottles or cans

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse.

Sexual assaults occur, including against foreign women.

• Always remain vigilant
• Do not accept offers of transportation from strangers
• Avoid dark alleys and isolated areas
• Keep your hotel doors and windows locked

Advice for women travellers

Fraud

Foreigners have been scammed in the past when exchanging money on the street.

Traffic police may stop motorists to collect fraudulent cash fines on the spot.

Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• only exchange money at major banks
• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime

Cybercrime, malware attacks and online extortion are commonplace. 

Criminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit information. 

• Be cautious when posting information or photos on social media 
• Use your own USB adaptor or carry an extra battery pack  
• Use secure public Wi-Fi networks 
• Do not discuss travel plans or any other personal information within earshot of strangers 

Fraudulent police officers 

Criminals may also pose as police officers, particularly in St. Petersburg. Real police officers wear a visible personal identification number on their uniforms.

Fake checkpoints may be set up in rural areas to commit robbery.

If you face a similar situation:

• offer to go to the nearest police station
• ask to see police credentials
• remain vigilant
• don’t hand over your money or documents unless you feel threatened
• request to provide your documents or money at the nearest police station, your hotel or another public place

Useful links

• Cyber security while travelling 
• Overseas fraud

Surveillance

Local authorities in Russia block access to several:

• websites
• social networks
• search engines
• online services

Don’t assume that your internet connection or past internet activity is private.

Certain Canadian institutions and organizations are treated as “undesirable” by the Russian government. Local authorities may place you under surveillance if they believe you are working with civil society groups that:

• oppose the Russian invasion of Ukraine
• are critical of the Russian state
• advocate for 2SLGBTQI+ persons.

You could also experience surveillance by the authorities simply because you are a foreigner. They may:

• monitor your telecommunications and your location at all times
• review the content stored on your electronic devices
• search your personal possessions or accommodations without your knowledge or consent
• subject you to intense scrutiny at the airport or border crossings, including searches of your personal possessions and telecommunications devices.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+ persons, as well as their allies and families, have been attacked, harassed, and verbally and physically abused. Discrimination and violence targeting 2SLGBTQI+ persons occur, particularly in the North Caucasus republics of Chechnya and Dagestan.

Russian law considers organizations associated with 2SLGBTQI+ rights or advocacy as “extremist.” Displaying symbols and media or openly discussing 2SLGBTQI+ in public could lead to your arrest, fine, detention or deportation.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Russia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Roads

Road safety vary considerably across the country.  

Drivers frequently disregard traffic laws and often drive and park in pedestrian areas. Accidents are common. Pedestrians should be particularly careful. In the event of an accident, don’t move the vehicle until the police arrive, even if the car is obstructing traffic.

GPS and other navigation systems, including most maps applications, will not work in Russia. If you plan to travel on the roads, ensure that you have an up-to-date map and plan your trip in advance.

Road conditions

Road conditions vary and are often poor outside major cities. Many roads in rural areas are not paved.

Don’t drive after dark.

In winter, road travel can be hazardous due to ice and snow.

Public transportation

Most major cities have reliable public transportation including buses, subways or streetcars.

Train

When travelling by train, store valuables in a safe place and don’t leave the compartment unattended. Lock the door from the inside.

Taxis

There are reports of assault and robbery in unregistered taxis. Only use officially marked taxis

• Book taxis in advance from reputable companies either by phone or through taxi company apps
• Confirm the fare in advance
• Never share a taxi with strangers

Marine transportation

Boat accidents are common due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels. Safety standards differ from those in Canada.

• Exercise caution and common sense when using marine transportation
• Don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy

Power outages

Power outages and shortages occur frequently throughout Russia.

Not all buildings are equipped with generators. Keep a supply of water, food, fuel and an emergency kit on hand.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Russian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Land border crossings

Finnish authorities have closed border crossings along the land border with Russia. Since April 15, 2024, land and maritime border crossings are closed to vehicles and personal watercraft. Vehicles registered in Russia can no longer enter Finland, even if entering from a third country.

Polish authorities have closed certain border crossings with Russia (Kaliningrad). If you intend to travel from Russia to Poland, you must apply for a humanitarian permit. If you plan to cross from Poland to Russia, only the following border crossings remain open for cars and buses:

• Grzechotki/Mamonovo
• Bezledy/Bagrationovsk

Only local residents are allowed to travel by land from Russia to Belarus. This restriction applies to cars, tour buses and trains. If you intend to travel between Belarus and Russia, you must have visas for both countries and travel by air.

Useful links

• Contact information and hours of operation – Finnish Border Guard
• Entry to Poland through external borders – Polish Border Guard
• Border crossing information – State Border Committee of the Republic of Belarus
• Border crossing information – Estonian Police and Border Guard Board

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Russia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: required for stays in commercial accommodations (exceptions apply)
Guest visa: required for stays in private accommodations
Business visa: required
Student visa: required
Transit visa: required (exceptions apply)
Exit visa: required

You must submit your visa request online to the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Canada.

You must leave Russia once your visa expires. You can extend your visa by applying to the territorial units of the migration service before your active visa expires

Tourist visa

You need a tourist visa if you are staying at a hotel or other rented accommodations. Ensure that the hotel registers your visa when you check in.

You should book your travel through a travel agency, which will submit a tourist visa application on your behalf. Certain Canadian travel agencies work with Russian travel agencies or companies that act as sponsors for tourist visas.

In cases of expired tourist visas or lost or stolen Canadian passports, only the visa-sponsoring travel agency is authorized to apply for a new tourist visa on your behalf. Extensions are not issued. Holders of expired visas face heavy fines or detention upon departure.

Private visas

You need a private visa if you intend to stay in private accommodations.

Business visa

To get a business visa, you need to be sponsored by a Russian individual or organization (your host).

Exit visa

You must have a valid visa to be allowed to leave Russia. To avoid problems, including deportation, make sure your visa is valid beyond your intended departure date. For more information, confirm with the Embassy of Russia in Canada.

Visa exceptions

Contact your cruise company to find out if you need to apply for a Russian visa before your cruise starts.

Some Russian international airports have transit areas that allow for visa-free travel through Russia. If you plan to transit through Russia, check with your transportation carrier to see if transit visa exceptions apply to you.

Useful links

• Embassy of the Russian Federation
• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Migration card

You should receive a migration card upon your arrival in Russia. These cards are usually distributed on flights and trains entering Russia or at points of entry, but sometimes they are not available, even at major international airports. Even if that’s the case, you are responsible to find a migration card and fill out a migration card. You must keep and carry the stamped part of the migration card throughout your stay. The card is required for hotel registration.

If the police request to see your migration card, you must comply. You must present it, your passport and your registered visa. You must also present the card to border officials upon departure.

If you hold a multiple-entry visa, you must fill out a new migration card every time you enter Russia.

Failure to present this card upon departure may result in fines, serious delays or imprisonment.

Registration

All foreign visitors staying for more than 7 days in Russia must register their arrival within 72 hours of entering the country (excluding weekends and national holidays). If you are staying at a hotel for your entire trip, the hotel will take care of registering your stay with the authorities. You should confirm with hotel staff that they registered your stay as soon as you arrive.

Visitors staying in private accommodations must register with the territorial office of the Federal Migration Service. Any Russian citizen with a resident registration (“propiska”) can register a foreigner staying at their home at a local police station or any post office. A small registration fee may apply. The visitor’s Russian host must be present during the process.

Violation of the rules of migration registration may result in a fine. In some cases, visitors may face expulsion from Russia and a ban from re-entering of up to 5 years. 

Customs declaration form

Upon arrival in Russia, you must fill out a customs declaration form, then go through the red customs line and have the form stamped by a customs official. Without the stamp, any undeclared currency and valuables, including items that could be considered antique, may be confiscated upon departure.

You must declare amounts of currency exceeding US$10,000 at border crossings. You may also be required to provide information on the origin of the money and its intended use. Any amount not declared on the form will be confiscated if you have not obtained an official bank receipt authorizing the clearance of these sums. You must keep your declaration form until you leave the country.

You must fill out a second customs declaration form when you leave the country and present the two forms to a customs official. You must declare any amount greater than RUB 3,000. If you fail to declare in writing the amount of currency in your possession, the undeclared currency and valuables may be confiscated and you may be detained and charged with criminal offence, which may result in imprisonment.

Special permits and restricted areas

Travel to and residency in several Russian cities and regions is restricted. You must obtain permission from local authorities prior to entering a restricted city or region. Failure to do so may result in arrest, fines and/or deportation. Attach an itinerary to your visa application to avoid delays. Some areas must be specifically indicated in the visa, and you may have to pay an extra fee to include them.

Passport requirements for individuals holding both Canadian and Russian citizenships

If you have dual citizenship, you must enter and leave Russia on a Russian passport.

If your Russian passport expires before you travel to Russia, Russian authorities in Canada can extend it for entry into Russia only. If the passport expires during your stay in Russia, you must obtain a new one before you leave. Renewing a Russian passport may take several months.

If you enter Russia with a repatriation certificate issued by Russian authorities abroad, you may not be allowed to leave on a Canadian passport. This certificate is only valid for one-way travel into Russia.

Entry ban on vehicles with Russian license plates

In September 2023, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania and Finland announced a ban on vehicles with Russian license plates entering their respective territories. The ban is enforced at the border as a result of existing European Union sanctions on the Russian Federation. Lithuania allows an exception for travellers able to prove transiting Lithuania to and from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad.

Other countries from the EU or the Schengen area have introduced similar bans. You should confirm with local authorities before travelling to the EU or Schengen area.  

Health entry requirements

If you are planning to remain in Russia for more than 3 months, you must provide a medical certificate of a negative test for HIV infection. The certificate must be valid for 3 months from the date of testing and include:

• passport details (full name, date of birth, passport number and country of residence)
• HIV test information (date of test, test results and signatures of the doctor who performed the test and the person examined)
• the length of your intended stay in Russia

Other tests (such as for tuberculosis and leprosy) may be required for individuals staying in Russia for more than 3 months.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•  washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is only available in major cities and the quality of care varies greatly throughout the country. Adequate facilities exist in larger cities and usually require cash payment upon admission. Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in Russia.

Russia has very strict rules on the importation of medication. Certain prescription and over-the-counter drugs that are common in Canada may be prohibited.

If you are travelling with medication, even over-the-counter medication, you must have a doctor’s note translated to Russian confirming that you need the medication. Contact an embassy or a consulate of the Russian Federation for up-to-date information.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Russia.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack them in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

“Undesirable” Organizations

Certain Canadian institutions, including NGOs, community organizations and educational institutions are considered “undesirable” by the Russian authorities. If you have a current or previous affiliation with these groups, you may be denied entry to Russia or face increased scrutiny at the border or in the country. You may face deportation if you are already in Russia.

Identification

Authorities frequently perform random identity checks in public places.

You must carry the following identification documents at all times:

• a valid passport with two blank pages for stamps
• a valid Russian visa
• your migration card
• your stamped registration notification

You may be fined or detained if you cannot provide proper documentation to Russian authorities.

Only the special police of the Federal Migration Bureau have the authority to arrest, detain and impose fines on improperly documented foreigners. If you are stopped in the street and requested to pay a fine, ask to see the officer’s name and identification, and to contact the Embassy of Canada to Russia in Moscow.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Minors participating in demonstrations

It is illegal for minors (those under 18) to participate in unauthorized protests. Adults who involve minors in such protests could face up to 15 days in jail and fines of up to RUB1 million.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Although the laws of Russia do not prohibit homosexual activity, Russian federal law prohibits public actions that are described as promoting homosexuality and “non-traditional sexual relations.”

Since January 2024, Russian law treats organizations advocating for 2SLGBTQI+ persons or issues as “extremist.” Previous laws banning “LGBT propaganda” and “the international LGBT movement” reflect an increasingly restrictive environment for 2SLGBTQI+ persons and their allies. Actions that contravene or appear to contravene this law may lead to arrest, a fine, jail time and deportation. Examples of such actions include:

• the dissemination of information, for example, through public statements
• public displays of affection.
• displaying symbols associated with 2SLGBTQI+ identities, cultures, or organizations, including flags
• showing or sharing media, including books and advertising, related to 2SLGBTQI+ themes or information

Same sex marriage is not recognized in Russia. Homosexuality isn’t socially accepted.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Russia.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Russia, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

If you are also a Russian citizen and reside in Russia or hold permanent residency status in another country, you must declare this citizenship or residency status to your local migration office.

You may also be subject to certain legal obligations, including military service. You may be detained, imprisoned, or fined large sums if you try to avoid military service. Seek advice from the nearest Russian embassy or consulate before travelling to Russia or consult official sources from the Government of the Russian Federation.

Useful links

• Official information - Government of the Russian Federation (may not be currently available depending on your location)
• Military mobilization - Government of the Russian Federation (may not be currently available depending on your location)
• Requirement and consequences of non-compliance with the declaration of foreign citizenship - Federal Migration Service of the Russian Federation (in Russian, may not be currently available depending on your location)
• General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Russia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Russia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Russia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Religious activity

Religious activity is heavily regulated in Russia. If you plan to engage in religious activity, such as missionary work, make sure you do not break local laws.

Driving

You should carry an international driving permit.

You may drive with a Canadian driver’s licence if you carry a notarized Russian translation. You must obtain a local permit if you stay longer than 6 months.

The legal blood alcohol content limit is significantly lower than in Canada. Those found guilty of drinking and driving can expect heavy fines, suspension of their driving permit and immediate detention. Repeat offenders may face prison sentences.

The traffic police can impose fines on drivers for traffic violations. They can conduct identity checks on pedestrians, but they are not authorized to impose fines. The same is true of police in the underground metro systems.

International Driving Permit

Imports and exports

The importation and use of electronic equipment are strictly controlled. Foreigners have faced charges of espionage for possessing improperly certified GPS devices, such as those used for geological mapping.

You must obtain a certificate from the Ministry of Culture to export items that appear old (prior to 1945) or may have cultural value. Customs officials may conduct thorough baggage searches and can arrest you if you don’t have the necessary certificate.

Contact the nearest Russian embassy or consulate or consult the Federal Customs Service prior to departure for up-to-date information on customs requirements.

Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Money

The currency of Russia is the Russian ruble (RUB).

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, major Western-issued credit card corporations no longer operate in Russia. Credit and debit cards from outside of Russia will not work at banks, businesses, or ATMs within Russia. ATMs are common in major cities and will accept cards issued in Russia. It is illegal to pay for goods and services in foreign currency. You can exchange U.S. dollars at any exchange bureau. Carry new, crisp bills as worn or used U.S. banknotes may not be accepted. In major cities, you can usually exchange Euros and U.S. dollars at various banks.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Russia. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation.

Forest fires

Forest fires are common between July and September, particularly in Siberia. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Seismic activity

Earthquakes

Parts of Russia are in active seismic zones. Earthquakes commonly occurs in:

• Caucasus
• Chechnya
• Kamchatka Peninsula
• the Kuril Islands
• the Sakhalin Island
• the Baikal Rift Zone in Siberia

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.  Landslides can occur with little warning following volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Roads may become impassable.

Useful links

• Earthquakes – What to Do?
• Earthquake Early Alert Service – Russian Academy of Science

Volcanoes

There are several active volcanoes on the Kamchatka Peninsula and the Kuril Islands. Eruptions may occur at any time. Series of tremors can lead to evacuations of surrounding areas. Falling ash may disrupt air traffic. 

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains, particularly during spring and summer, can cause flooding and landslides. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around rivers
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders