Study Abroad in St. Petersburg: Living Abroad

Visa

The Russian government requires students to hold a valid visa for their period of study. AIFS will apply for the visa on behalf of students who apply to the program by the application deadline and submit all requested visa application materials, including original passports, by imposed deadlines. Applicants must possess a passport that will be valid for at least 18 months after the student’s return to the U.S. by May 15 for fall semester, October 1 for spring. Students who do not meet this requirement may be ineligible to attend this program.

AIFS pays the Consulate’s visa application fee of $140 for students who apply for visas through AIFS. Students who submit applications/visa materials after the deadlines may have to pay an expedited visa processing fee (an additional $200), or they may have to apply for the visa on their own if their application holds up the group. AIFS will send back the students’ passports with their airline ticket approximately 10 days prior to departure.

Russian visa regulations and requirements are subject to constant change. Students will be given the most up to date information on application including information on a required HIV test. AIFS will advise students of any changes at the earliest opportunity.