Russian authorities accept visa applications from tourists at least 90 days before their proposed date of travel. To obtain your visa, submit your application to the Russian consulate either in person or through an authorized travel agent. One of the basic requirements is that your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the period of your intended stay in Russia.
A Russian visa is as much an exit permit as it is an entry permit. The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs warns of the complex requirements for Russian visas and advises U.S. citizens to be cautious not to inadvertently breach their visa conditions -- Russian authorities may not allow you to leave the country if you have overstayed your visa.
According to Russian visa regulations, cruise ship passengers who have booked through an officially licensed company can enter Russia for up to 72 hours without a visa. Instead, your tour ticket or booking confirmation will act as a blanket visa which Russian authorities will accept alongside your immigration card that will be issued to you on the ship.
