Invitation Letter & Student Visa Process
Official guide to obtaining your Federal Migration Service (FMS) Invitation Letter.
FMS Invitation Letter Issuance
The Visa Invitation Letter is a prerequisite for your Russian student visa application. This official document is issued by the Federal Migration Service (FMS) of the Russian Federation upon application by the university.
Issuance Timeline
The processing time for the FMS Invitation Letter is typically 10 to 15 working days after the university confirms receipt of all required payments and documents.
Payment Prerequisite
The Invitation Letter is only processed and issued after the student has completed the payment required to confirm their enrollment (either tuition fees or mandatory administrative fees, depending on their status).
Mandatory Fees Not Covered by Waiver
The following mandatory administrative and insurance charges are NOT covered by the Tuition Fee Waiver Program and must be paid upfront:
FMS Invitation Letter Fee
500 USD
This administrative fee is mandatory for Tuition Fee Waiver students. For self-funded students, this fee is typically incorporated into the first tuition payment.
Mandatory Medical Insurance
300 USD
Annual medical insurance is compulsory for all foreign students and is not included in the tuition fee or waiver program.
Required Documents for Student Visa Filing
When filing your application at the Russian Embassy or Consulate, you will typically need the following documents:
- Completed Visa Application Form
- Original Passport (valid for at least 18 months from intended entry date)
- Original FMS Invitation Letter (provided by RPUMS)
- HIV Certificate (must be issued within the last 3 months)
- Academic Documents (Originals and certified copies of diplomas/certificates)
- Passport-sized Photos (as per embassy specifications)
- Travel Medical Insurance Certificate
Important Financial Note
Bank statements or proof of financial solvency are generally NOT required for filing the Russian student visa application, simplifying the process for international students.
Where to Apply: Countries with Russian Embassies
Students must apply for their visa at the nearest Russian Embassy or Consulate located in their country of citizenship or legal residence. Below is a representation of regions worldwide where Russian embassies and consulates are typically present.
This list includes, but is not limited to, countries across:
- India
- China
- Egypt
- Brazil
- Nigeria
- South Africa
- Germany
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- UK
- Canada
- Kazakhstan
- Uzbekistan
- Turkey
- UAE
- Saudi Arabia
- Indonesia
- Vietnam
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Peru
- Cuba
- Australia
