NEWSLINK Association for Slavic, East European & Eurasian Studies: On Russian Visas for Researchers

For non-Russian passport holders required to obtain a visa to conduct research in Russia, the safest visa choice appears to be the Common Humanitarian visa type, backed by an invitation from a Russian academic organization, and specifying “scientific-technical” purposes of the visit, rather than a tourist or business visa. You can obtain a multi-entry humanitarian visa as well, at least for US citizens (check with the Russian consulate in your country). Obtaining a humanitarian visa will involve more advance planning. It is important to note that this is not a change in Russian visa law, but possibly a stricter enforcement of its visa regulations, particularly in certain localities. We suggest that you consult the Russian Consulate website and a visa service specialist. “Kritika” journal plans to publish a “From the Editor” column dealing with this subject in more detail, to which members are referred. Also see the “research/travel arrangement” introduction section of ArcheoBiblioBase. We will continue to gather more information and keep you informed.

http://www.aseees.org/news-events/aseees-news-feed/russian-visas-researchers