Exploring Russia: Australians' Travel Possibilities And Restrictions

Australians are advised not to travel to Russia due to the dangerous security situation, the ongoing military conflict with Ukraine, and the risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. Foreigners, including Australians, are at risk of being arbitrarily detained or arrested by Russian authorities, who have made strong negative comments about Western countries, including Australia. The Australian government may not be able to provide consular assistance to its citizens in Russia, and departure routes from the country may be disrupted without warning. There is also a high threat of terrorism, with groups such as al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned groups calling for attacks on popular tourist sites.

Australians are advised not to travel to Russia

Additionally, there is a high threat of terrorism in Russia, with terrorist groups such as al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned groups actively calling for attacks. These attacks can occur without warning in public places, including popular tourist sites, and during seasonal or religious events. Military activity is also underway in certain regions, and the security situation could deteriorate further at any moment. Australians in Russia are advised to leave immediately using commercial options or private means if it is safe to do so. Departure routes from Russia may be disrupted, so having an alternate exit plan is essential.

The Australian government's ability to provide consular assistance in Russia is limited, and it will not be able to evacuate its citizens from the country. There are also limited transportation options, restrictions on financial transactions, and possible shortages of essential products and services. Australians should be aware that bank cards issued outside of Russia will not work within the country, and they may face challenges accessing their funds.

Furthermore, Russia has strict laws and regulations that foreigners should be aware of. For example, it is illegal to photograph military or sensitive areas, and there are restrictions on the use of drones and certain electronic equipment. Russia also severely restricts free speech, and publishing or sharing information related to the Russian government, military, or current events can result in arrest and imprisonment.

In summary, due to the security risks, military conflict, and potential for arbitrary detention, Australians are strongly advised not to travel to Russia at this time. Those already in the country should carefully consider their safety and departure options, understanding that consular support may be limited.

Australians can apply for a regular tourist visa to Russia

Australians wishing to visit Russia despite the government's advice should be aware of the following:

• The application process for a regular tourist visa can take up to two weeks, and Australians cannot apply for an e-visa.
• Australians may face difficulties using their money in Russia as credit cards issued outside the country may not be accepted.
• There may be limited flight availability to Russia, and commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe are often disrupted due to the conflict in Ukraine.
• Thorough security checks, including questioning and inspections of electronic devices, should be expected when entering Russia.
• From December 2024, biometric data will be collected from foreign travellers upon arrival in Russia.
• Australians in Russia should have an alternate exit plan and review their personal security plans, as departure routes may become disrupted at short notice.
• It is illegal in Russia to photograph military places or sensitive areas and to use drones without permission.
• There are strict rules regarding the import and use of medications. A doctor's letter and a notarised translation are required for each medication.
• Public medical facilities in Russia are below Australian standards, especially in rural areas.
• Australians are at risk of arbitrary detention, interrogation, and extortion by Russian officials.
• Russia does not recognise dual nationality, and dual nationals must enter and exit Russia using a Russian passport.
• Australians should carry their passport, visa, and migration card at all times, as authorities will not accept copies.
• There are restrictions on the import and export of certain goods, including foreign-made medical products, antiques, artworks, and items of historical significance.

Australians are at risk of arbitrary detention or arrest in Russia

There is a high threat of terrorism in Russia, with groups such as al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned organisations continuing to call for attacks. These attacks can occur with little to no warning and often target public places, including those popular with tourists. Military activity is also underway in the regions of Kursk and Belgorod, where a federal state of emergency has been declared.

The Australian government warns that local authorities may adopt a negative attitude towards foreigners and arbitrarily enforce local laws. Australians may be interrogated without cause by officials and may become victims of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion. Russia also severely restricts free speech, and foreigners may be arrested or imprisoned for publishing or distributing information deemed illegal.

In addition to the security concerns, there are also limited transportation options, restrictions on financial transactions, and possible shortages of essential products and services in Russia. Bank cards issued outside of Russia do not work in the country, and it is difficult to access funds from Australian bank accounts.

While it is possible for Australians to obtain a visa to Russia, it is not recommended. Australians who decide to travel to Russia despite the warnings should expect thorough security checks at the border and be prepared to follow local laws closely to avoid detention or arrest.

There is a high threat of terrorism in Russia

Australians are advised against travelling to Russia due to the dangerous security situation, the military conflict with Ukraine, and the risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. Foreigners, including Australians, are at risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. Russian authorities have been making strong, negative comments about Western countries, including Australia, and local authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia. It is recommended that Australians avoid any protests or demonstrations and avoid commenting publicly on political developments.

Terrorist attacks in Russia may occur on or around seasonal, festive, or religious events and could be carried out with little or no warning. It is recommended that individuals travelling to Russia remain vigilant and always be alert to possible threats. They should also have a clear exit plan and follow the instructions of local authorities.

LGBTQIA+ travellers may face violence in Russia

While same-sex relationships are technically legal in Russia, they are not widely accepted. Violence against members of the LGBTQIA+ community occurs, and the country bans "LGBTQIA+ propaganda", criminalising any act regarded as an attempt to promote what Russia calls "non-traditional sexual relations". The promotion of LGBTQIA+ issues may be considered illegal by local authorities, and activists may face consequences under Russian law.

In 1917, after the October Revolution, the Russian Soviet Republic decriminalised homosexuality. However, in 1934, the Soviet Union under Joseph Stalin recriminalised sex between men. Homosexual acts between consenting males were re-legalised in 1993, but the LGBTQIA+ community continues to face legal and social challenges in Russia.

Frequently asked questions