Briefing de orientación en Rusia

Founded in the 12th century, the Principality of Muscovy emerged from over 200 years of Mongol domination (13th-15th centuries) and gradually conquered and absorbed surrounding principalities. In the early 17th century, a new ROMANOV dynasty continued this policy of expansion across Siberia to the Pacific. Under PETER I (1682-1725), hegemony was extended to the Baltic Sea and the country was renamed the Russian Empire. During the 19th century, more territorial acquisitions were made in Europe and Asia. Defeat in the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-05 contributed to the Revolution of 1905, which resulted in the formation of a parliament and other reforms. Devastating defeats and food shortages in World War I led to widespread rioting in the major cities of the Russian Empire and to the overthrow of the ROMANOV Dynasty in 1917. The communists under Vladimir LENIN seized power soon after and formed the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR).

The brutal rule of Iosif STALIN (1928-53) strengthened communist control and Russian dominance of the Soviet Union at a cost of tens of millions of lives. After defeating Germany in World War II as part of an alliance with the US (1939-1945), the USSR expanded its territory and influence in Eastern Europe and emerged as a global power. The USSR was the principal US adversary during the Cold War (1947-1991). The Soviet economy and society stagnated in the decades following Stalin's rule, until General Secretary Mikhail GORBACHEV (1985-91) introduced glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring) in an attempt to modernize communism. His initiatives inadvertently released political and economic forces that by December 1991 led to the dissolution of the USSR into Russia and 14 other independent states. In response to the ensuing turmoil during President Boris YELTSIN's term (1991-99), Russia shifted toward a centralized authoritarian state under President Vladimir PUTIN (2000-2008, 2012-present) in which the regime seeks to legitimize its rule through managed elections, populist appeals, a foreign policy focused on enhancing the country's geopolitical influence, and commodity-based economic growth.

In 2014, Russia purported to annex Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula and occupied large portions of two eastern Ukrainian oblasts. In sporadic fighting over the next eight years, more than 14,000 civilians were killed or wounded as a result of the Russian invasion in eastern Ukraine. On 24 February 2022, Russia escalated its conflict with Ukraine by invading the country on several fronts in what has become the largest conventional military attack on a sovereign state in Europe since World War II. The invasion received near-universal international condemnation, and many countries imposed sanctions on Russia and supplied humanitarian and military aid to Ukraine. In September 2022, Russia unilaterally declared its annexation of four Ukrainian oblasts -- Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia -- even though none were fully under Russian control. The annexations remain unrecognized by the international community. 

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

FCDO advises against all travel to Russia

FCDO advises against all travel to Russia due to the risks and threats from its continuing invasion of Ukraine, including:

• security incidents, such as drone attacks, and Russian air defence activity
• lack of flights to return to the UK
• limited ability for the UK government to provide support

There is an increased risk of British nationals being detained in Russia, including if the Russian authorities suspect you of engaging in or supporting activities against Russian law, even if activities took place outside Russia. See ‘Risk of arrest and detention’ on ‘Safety and security’.  

Russia has a track record of targeting foreign nationals and holding them in detention as leverage over other countries. FCDO’s ability to assist you in these circumstances is extremely limited.

There is also a high likelihood terrorists will try to carry out attacks, including in major cities. See ‘Safety and security’.

Ongoing drone attacks and associated Russian air-defence activity may increase risks to civilian aviation and can lead to short-notice restrictions on airspace use and airport operations. See ‘Safety and security’

Limited UK government support

The British Embassy in Moscow and British Consulate in Ekaterinburg are open, but the situation could change at short notice.

In-person UK government support in Russia is limited. It is very limited in parts of Russia because of the security situation and the size of the country, particularly in the North Caucasus.

If you need support, call our 24-hour helpline +7 495 956 7200 and select the option for consular services for British nationals.

Contact the Russian emergency services on 112.

Dual nationals

If you hold both British and Russian nationality, Russian authorities will treat you as a Russian citizen. This limits the consular assistance the UK government can provide. If you are arrested or detained, Russian authorities are unlikely to allow UK consular staff to visit or assist you. 

Russian nationals are required to notify Russian authorities of any second nationality, including British, within 60 days of acquiring that nationality, or within 60 days of returning to Russia if the British/ foreign nationality was obtained outside of Russia. Parents are responsible for notification on behalf of their children aged under 18.  Failure to comply can result in criminal liability. Your British passport may be confiscated by the Russian authorities and not returned. Penalties can include a fine of up to 200,000 Russian rubles (or up to one year of income) and/or compulsory work for up to 400 hours.

Military Service 

Russia operates a conscription-based military system. Men aged 18 to 30 with Russian citizenship may be called up for two-year compulsory military service. Conscription campaigns continue throughout the year. 

Russian law prevents eligible individuals from leaving Russia once their draft notice appears on the federal electronic draft register. 

If you receive a conscription notice via your account on the Russian State Services portal, you will be prohibited from leaving Russia. Failure to report to the conscription point within seven days of receiving the notice may result in penalties, restrictions on your rights, or detention. 

In addition to regular conscription, Russia has declared a partial mobilisation. Military recruitment is ongoing, and anyone with Russian citizenship may be drafted.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Russia

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Russia.

Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:

• large gatherings, such as concerts
• popular tourist sites
• seasonal, festive, or religious activities in public places
• areas that are not controlled by security, such as open-air events and markets
• transportation networks

Terrorist attacks have taken place in Moscow and St Petersburg and other Russian cities in recent years, resulting in large numbers of casualties. Russia’s aviation has also been targeted. 

Examples of recent attacks include:

• in March 2024, 145 people were killed in an attack at the Crocus City Concert Hall in Krasnogorsk near Moscow

Additional counter-terrorism procedures and restrictions may still be in place across the country. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Terrorism in the North Caucasus

Terrorists are active in the North Caucasus. They have carried out a number of attacks mainly in Russia’s Dagestan region.

Security services carry out regular counter-terrorism operations in the North Caucasus and across Russia. These can happen at short notice and may lead to travel restrictions.

Examples of recent attacks include:

• in June 2024 at least 20 people were killed after armed men attacked synagogues, churches and police in Dagestan

Security situation in Russia

The Russian invasion of Ukraine continues. There are reports of drone attacks and explosions in Russia, particularly near the Russian border with Ukraine, but also in and near large cities and infrastructure sites across Western and Central Russia. Associated Russian air defence activity may pose a threat to civilian aviation. Air space may close during drone attacks. This has led to frequent and unpredictable delays, diversions and cancellations to flights in and out of Russian airports. There have been several shootings in Moscow, often near to apartment blocks. There has also been a bombing near to a Moscow railway station.

Check local media for the latest information. Be vigilant and avoid any political demonstrations or gatherings.  

The situation remains unpredictable and could escalate without warning.

Leaving Russia

If you do not need to be in Russia, the FCDO strongly advises you to consider leaving.

You cannot fly directly from Russia to the UK or through EU countries. There are limited commercial airlines with indirect flights including through the Middle East, Serbia, Azerbaijan, Central Asia, Georgia and Turkey. Check the latest information with your airline or travel provider.

Land border crossings

Land borders may be busy or closed. Be prepared for a long wait to exit Russia. Officials may question you at the border. During periods of unrest, check the local media for updates before travelling.

Check entry requirements in:

• Finland travel advice
• Latvia travel advice
• Estonia travel advice
• Lithuania travel advice
• Norway travel advice

These and other European countries have restricted or banned the entry of vehicles registered in Russia. Check entry requirements before driving a vehicle registered in Russia into Europe.

See information on:

• Finnish border crossings – the border between Finland and Russia is closed
• Latvian border crossings
• Estonian border crossings – the Narva-Ivangorod crossing is closed to vehicles but open to pedestrians
• Lithuanian border crossings

Staying in Russia

If you decide to stay in Russia, you should:

• keep your departure plans under constant review
• ensure travel documents are up to date
• ensure you have enough money
• follow local media
• stay alert to security warnings and follow the advice of local authorities
• take cover from drone attacks in buildings or underground and avoid windows
• sign up to email alerts for Russia travel advice

Read guidance for people affected by a crisis abroad.

Political situation

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continues. The situation is unpredictable and could escalate without warning. Stay alert and follow the advice of local authorities.  

Russia has heightened security measures in place, which are set by local authorities and differ between regions. They can introduce additional measures at short notice, especially near borders. This could include curfews, restrictions on movement and public gatherings, searches or seizure of private property and increased monitoring of communications.

Military activity in Kursk Oblast

There is military activity in Kursk and Belgorod oblasts. On 10 August, Russian authorities introduced a “counter-terrorist operation” regime in Kursk, Belgorod and Bryansk oblasts. The activity in these oblasts is mainly limited to regions which border Ukraine. However, military activity could spread to other areas. Travel advice for other oblasts could change at short notice. Follow any relevant instructions from local authorities. 

Foreign fighters

If you travel to Russia to join the Russian army, or to help others engaged in the war with Ukraine, you could be breaking UK laws. You could be prosecuted when you return to the UK.

Risk of arrest and detention

On 28 December 2024, the Russian Criminal Code was revised, expanding the scope of potential liability for foreigners believed to be acting against Russian interests.

If the Russian authorities suspect you of engaging in or supporting activities against Russian law, even if activities took place outside Russia, you may be:  

• deported 
• detained
• investigated  
• prosecuted

Activities could include:  

• displaying LGBT+ symbols like the rainbow flag  
• expressing support for Ukraine on social media   
• making a financial contribution to organisations linked to Ukraine  
• helping Russian nationals evade conscription  

If Russian authorities detain you, you could face months or years of imprisonment. Russia has a track record of targeting foreign nationals and holding them in detention as leverage over other countries. FCDO’s ability to assist you in these circumstances is extremely limited.   

If you are a British-Russian dual national, you are at risk of arrest, questioning or detention.

Getting help while in detention

It may take some time for the Russian authorities to tell us of your arrest or detention and to give us permission to visit you. They will control your access to your family during your detention. Conditions in Russian penitentiary institutions are poor.

If you are a British-Russian dual national, we may not be informed of your arrest. The Russian authorities will treat you as a Russian national. They will not allow FCDO consular access to visit you.

Restrictions on publishing and distributing information

Journalists have been arrested for gathering and publishing information.

There are severe restrictions on publishing and distributing information related to the Russian armed forces and any military operations. This includes images of, including the aftermath, of drone, military or terrorist attacks. People charged under these laws face heavy sentences.

If you publish or distribute information considered ‘fake’ or from non-official Russian government sources, you could receive a fine or prison sentence of up to 15 years. This includes posting or sharing content on social media.

International sanctions against Russia

In response to Russia’s invasion, the UK and other governments have placed sanctions on Russia, including on its airlines. This can affect the situation in Russia and anyone travelling there. See more information about Russian sanctions and what this means for British nationals.

International businesses and services have restrictions in place, including Mastercard and Visa, which means you may not be able to access money or other services. Read FCDO’s overall travel advice and entry requirements.

Protests and demonstrations

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, there have been anti-war protests across Russia. Demonstrators have been detained.

Authorised rallies and demonstrations are allowed in cities and towns in Russia. Under Russian law, a single person can constitute a protest and could be subject to repercussions by Russian authorities. Unauthorised demonstrations can become violent, with a strong response from security forces.

Check local media for the latest information, be vigilant and avoid demonstrations or large gatherings that may be considered political. Do not take photographs of or film political activities.

Crime

Protecting your belongings

Be alert to the risk of mugging, pickpocketing and theft in the main tourist areas, around the main railway stations, vehicles and hotel rooms. You should not:

• leave your bags unattended
• openly carry expensive items or anything that might identify you as a tourist
• walk about late at night alone
• look after possessions of people you do not know
• agree to go to a bar or a club with someone you have just met

Be wary of groups of people begging.

Look after your passport, especially in major transport hubs and busy areas. British nationals have had passports stolen or lost in Moscow airports. Take care when passing through airports, particularly in the baggage collection area and outside the arrivals hall.

Drink spiking

Drink spiking, leading to robbery, violence or abuse, can happen. Victims are often left unconscious outside. This can be life-threatening in winter. Buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight.

Methanol poisoning

There have been deaths and cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in Russia.

In recent cases, deaths were linked to bootleg vodka sold in the Leningrad region. Authorities have arrested suspects, seized thousands of litres of illicit alcohol, and launched criminal investigations. In 2023, a counterfeit cider branded Mister Cider caused over 50 deaths, prompting product bans and enforcement action, but despite this, incidents have continued.

Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Spiking and methanol poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks. 

Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.

Violent crime

Violent criminals do not usually target foreign visitors. However, in St Petersburg gangs have targeted tourists for street crime.

Avoiding unregistered taxis

British nationals travelling in unregistered taxis have been victims of crime. Taxis that look official can be unlicensed. You should:

• use a local taxi app to call a registered taxi
• ask your hotel to call a taxi or give you the number of a reputable company
• agree the fare before getting into the taxi or check that the meter is working

Do not flag down a taxi or share a taxi with strangers.

Dating services scams

Dating services scams have affected British nationals. Never send money to or buy items for anyone you have not met in person.

Money transfer scams

Be wary of sending money through untraceable transfer services. British nationals have lost money when sending it to unknown recipients without checking they’re genuine.

Fake police checks

The police do not need a reason to stop, question or detain you. Criminals posing as police officers have harassed and robbed tourists. If you’re stopped, always insist on seeing identification. Report any harassment or crime to the nearest police office.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Always carry your passport with you as ID. Police carry out random checks, especially during periods of high security. You could get a fine or be detained for up to 48 hours if you cannot show your passport when asked. Copies are not accepted.

Illegal drugs

You can be prosecuted for possessing even small quantities of any drugs, including cannabis. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.

Airports in Russia have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

Restricted military areas

Access to some areas, such as military and border zones, is restricted. You must get permission from local authorities before entering. If you do not have permission, the authorities may arrest, fine or deport you.

You can find a list of restricted areas online (in Russian, you may not be able access the site from outside of Russia). Check with your tour operator or the Russian Embassy in the UK if you’re unsure whether a tour or excursion will take you into a restricted area.

Taking photos in secure areas

Photography is illegal  at any military, secure or official sites, including airports. There may not be warning signs in locations where photography is banned. You could be detained or arrested if you break the law.

Using drones

Due to current military activities, it is illegal to use drones in some regions. Check restrictions with the local authorities.

You must get permission from the Russian aviation authority (in Russian) before using any unmanned aircraft systems (drones) in Russian airspace. You must tell them the flight route at least 24 hours in advance and keep in regular contact with them before and during the flight. You will get a fine if you do not comply.

Mobile phones 

If you travel to Russia with a non-Russian SIM card, you may not be able to access mobile internet, SMS or other services. Buying a local-network SIM card in Russia can be difficult for visitors and could take up to 2 weeks to complete. Make sure your friends and relatives know how to contact you if your mobile phone does not work.

You need to present your passport or other ID and pass biometric checks to buy a Russian sim card from local providers in Russia. You may be asked to perform these checks even if you have had a local SIM for some time. 

You can continue using your UK SIM in Russia without any local identity checks as long as your UK mobile company provides roaming service for Russia.

Any SIM which has not been connected to the Russian network for 72 hours will not be able to connect to the internet or send SMS when they are first switched on. You may have to wait for some time for the services to resume. This may vary from several hours to several days.  Some networks may allow you to complete a set of actions to get your access restored quicker. 

Make sure friends and relatives know how to contact you if your mobile phone does not work.

Cybersecurity laws

There are increasing restrictions to limit access to content posted on the internet, including social media platforms. Meta (Facebook and Instagram), X and LinkedIn are blocked in Russia. Access to other websites can be unreliable.

More information is available from the Federal Service for Surveillance of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media (in Russian).

Racial discrimination

Most visitors experience no problems, but racial discrimination can happen in some areas. If you’re of African, Asian or Caribbean descent, you may receive unwanted attention in public places. Take care, particularly when travelling late at night.

LGBT+ travellers

Homosexuality is not illegal in Russia but there are considerable legislative restrictions which target the LGBT+ community. In January 2024 a Russian Supreme Court judgement came into force banning the so-called ‘international LGBT movement’ and designating it as ‘extremist’. ‘LGBT propaganda’ legislation bans people from promoting ‘non-traditional sexual relations’. If charged, foreign citizens could face: 

• fines 
• up to 15 days in jail
• deportation

Attitudes towards the LGBT+ community and LGBT+ issues are less tolerant than in the UK and vary in different locations. Government officials have made derogatory comments to LGBT+ individuals. Same-sex couples showing affection in public may receive negative attention.

There are no laws to protect LGBT+ people from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Recent laws targeting LGBT+ communities include:  

• in 2012, Moscow Pride was banned for 100 years  
• in 2022, a ban on the ‘demonstration of LGBT information, promotion of non-traditional sexual relations and change of gender’ to children and adults through the internet, films, advertisement, audio visual services and books (the “gay propaganda” law)

In November 2023, the Russian Supreme Court banned the so-called ‘international LGBT movement’, designating it as ‘extremist’. The court provided no definition of ‘international LGBT movement’.

Displaying ‘extremist’ symbols and being a member of and donating money to ‘extremist’ organisations are criminal offences. This decision came in to force in January 2024. It is unclear how the authorities will implement the ruling but there have been reports of persecution for displaying the rainbow flag, considered by the authorities as a ‘symbol of an extremist organisation’.

Harassment, threats and acts of violence towards the LGBT+ community have increased.

The North Caucasus republics are particularly intolerant of the LGBT+ community. There have been reports of the arrest, torture and killing of gay men in Chechnya, allegedly conducted by Chechen regional authorities.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Surrogacy

Russia has banned surrogacy for all foreign nationals except those married to Russian citizens. Read about surrogacy arrangements in foreign countries.

Religious activities

Some religious activities are restricted, including preaching and distributing religious materials.

Jehovah’s Witnesses are considered an extremist organisation in Russia. They can face harassment from authorities, including detention, particularly at places of worship.

Some other minority religious groups, like Scientologists, also face discrimination.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you’re planning to drive in Russia, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s Russia guide.

You’ll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

There are currently fuel shortages throughout Russia. In some places quotas may be imposed, including at short notice. If you intend to drive long distances, you should check fuel availability before travelling.

If you have a residence permit or acquire Russian citizenship, you must get a Russian driving licence within one year. See Living in Russia.

Road safety in Russia is poor and road conditions are unpredictable. Take care when driving, take account of weather conditions and consider avoiding driving at night. Do not drive alone at night or sleep in your vehicle on the side of the road. Do not pick up hitchhikers.

Traffic police often stop drivers for spot checks.

Bringing vehicles into Russia

If you plan to drive into Russia, you must declare your vehicle to the customs authority on entry. You can bring a vehicle into Russia without paying import taxes for up to one year.

Green cards are no longer accepted as proof of car or road insurance. Check insurance requirements before entering.

For questions about bringing a vehicle into Russia, contact the Russian Embassy in the UK.

Rail travel

Railway stations have airport-style security. Many railway services require passengers to show their passports on boarding.

If you are travelling by overnight train, store valuables in the container under the bed or seat. Do not look after luggage for other travellers or let them store it in your compartment.

Do not leave your sleeping compartment empty, as some compartments only have a simple lock on the sliding door. On some trains, there may be an extra security device attached to the fitted handle or lock. There may also be a steel switch at head-height on the door panel which, when pulled down, prevents the closed door from being opened.

Air travel

Air space will close during drone attacks. This has led to frequent and unpredictable delays, diversions and cancellations to flights in and out of Russian airports.

There are restrictions on domestic flights to a number of airports in southern Russia, with disruption to internal flights to and from Moscow and other cities. Check the latest information with your airline or travel provider. Each airline regularly conducts their own safety and security risk assessments if they are flying over or near conflict regions. See Air travel: safety and security

Air safety

The UK Air Safety List (ASL) lists all known airlines in Russia that do not meet international safety standards and are banned from operating commercial air services to, from, and within the UK. Check the UK Air Safety List when considering which airlines to fly with. The list is maintained by the Department for Transport, based on advice from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.

Airline and railway sanctions

The UK government has sanctioned:

• Aeroflot
• Rossiya Airlines
• Ural Airlines
• Russian Railways

British nationals can buy flight tickets if the journey is starting in, or within, Russia without breaching UK sanctions. See more information from the Office for Financial Sanctions Implementation (PDF).

UK government staff do not travel on banned airlines. If staff need to travel internally, they may use airlines which also fly internationally to countries where international safety standards are maintained or on western manufactured aircraft.

Travellers with limited mobility

Wheelchair access can be limited in some public areas. Facilities for people with limited mobility vary. They can be poor or non-existent in some areas.

See more advice on disability and travelling abroad.

Natural disasters and extreme weather

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Earth tremors

Earth tremors are recorded throughout the year without consequences. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Wild fires

There are areas of wildfires in western and southern Russia.

Arctic travel

Parts of Russia are in the Arctic Circle, including some very remote areas of land and sea. Emergency medical assistance and search and rescue are limited in these areas. See Arctic travel safety advice.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Russia
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Russia.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Russia, including in the Western Caucasus mountains. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

HIV and AIDS

There is a higher rate of HIV and AIDS in Russia than in the UK. Take normal precautions to avoid exposure.

Air quality

Air quality can worsen in some weather conditions. Monitor local media and the regional websites for the Ministry of Emergencies for more information.

Health examinations

If you’re in Russia for more than 90 days, you must have a regular comprehensive health examination. This applies to foreign nationals who are:

• visiting
• working
• on highly qualified specialist visas
• family members of any of the above, including children aged 6 and over

The examination includes tests for sexually transmitted infections and chest X-rays. You will have to submit fingerprints and other biometric data.

If you are working or on a highly qualified specialist visa, you must complete the first health check within 30 days of arrival in Russia.

If you’re visiting, or in any other category, you must complete the first health check within 90 days of arrival.

Check with your employers and the Ministry of the Interior for the latest requirements.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

If your medication contains narcotic or psychoactive substances, you must carry a prescription in your name, translated into Russian, and notarised. Notarisation services are available in the UK from a notary public.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Russia

Russia does not have a reciprocal health agreement with the UK. European and Global Health Insurance Cards (EHIC and GHIC) are not valid in Russia. Any foreign national has a legal right to free medical care in life-threatening circumstances.

Medical care may not meet western standards. Hospitals do not accept all health cases and may request payments before treatment.

In remote areas, hospitals may not use disposable intravenous (IV) supplies, syringes and needles as standard practice. You may want to have your own supply.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Russia where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.