MFA TRAVEL ADVISORY: SITUATION IN UKRAINE AND RUSSIA
16 April 2024
In view of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the current security situation in Russia, Singaporeans should continue to defer all non-essential travel to Russia, and defer all travel to Ukraine.
There was a major terrorist attack in the Moscow Region on 22 March 2024, and a bombing in St Petersburg in April 2023. In addition, there has been an increase in the frequency of drone strikes affecting Moscow and St Petersburg in recent months. There have also been increased incidents of artillery shelling and drone strikes in regions bordering Ukraine.
Singaporeans travelling to Russia should exercise personal responsibility and purchase comprehensive travel insurance. They should be familiar with the terms and coverage of their insurance (e.g. whether medical evacuation will be covered) should adverse situations such as terrorism and/or war-related incidents occur.
Singaporeans who are in Russia are strongly advised to remain vigilant, monitor local news closely and heed the advice of the local authorities. They should take necessary precautions for their personal safety and eRegister with MFA immediately at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg if they have not done so. Singaporeans in Russia who require consular assistance should contact:
Singapore Embassy in Moscow
Tel: +7 499 241 37 02 during office hours, or the 24-hour emergency hotline +7 906 009 00 69
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24-hours)
Tel: +65 6379 8800/6379 8855
Fax: +65 6476 7302
Passports and Visas:
Singaporeans are required to obtain a visa before travelling to Russia. Visitors should ensure that they apply for the correct type and duration of visa. Visitors should apply for visas well in advance during peak travel periods. Singaporeans are advised to check the details listed on the visa, particularly the validity dates and passport number, upon issue. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure.
Business travellers holding APEC travel cards with “RUS” printed on the reverse side may wish to double check with the Russian Embassy on possibility to travel to Russia visa-free for up 90 days in each 180-day period.
Travellers arriving by cruise ships that dock for less than 72 hours in St. Petersburg (and some other port cities) may be allowed to enter Russia visa-free if they are part of a tour organised by the cruise operator or registered tour operator. Please check with your cruise operator on whether you need to obtain a Russian visa.
While visitors could previously apply for an online unified e-visa for entry into Russia (subject to certain conditions), this has been temporarily suspended due to the ongoing pandemic.
Visitors departing Russia by train, particularly those embarking on overnight journeys, should ensure that their visa is still valid when the train crosses the border.
As visa requirements often change at short notice, we advise you to contact your travel agency, or the Russian Visa Application Centre in Singapore (VFS Global), or the Russian Embassy located nearest to you for up-to-date information.
Migration card:
Visitors are required to sign on the migration card, which is issued electronically at passport control in the major Russian airports. The migration card comes in two identical parts. One part will be retained by the immigration officer upon arrival. The other part will be given to the foreigner for retention. This part will need to be produced to border officials upon departure.
There are many hotels and hostels that will not check in guests who are unable to produce a migration card. Visitors who lose their migration card should seek assistance from their hotel/host to obtain a replacement from the nearest federal migration service office within three days. Please provide the original travel documents used to enter Russia for a gratis duplicate card. Visitors who cannot produce a valid migration card upon departure may experience delays in leaving Russia.
Registration:
All foreigners are required to register with the Russian authorities within 7 working days of arrival. Most major hotels will do this for you automatically, but you should confirm with the hotel staff that this has been done. For those staying in private accommodation (e.g. airbnb), your host must do this for you. Failure to register may result in a fine and problems when exiting or re-entering Russia in the future. If you are visiting multiple destinations within Russia, you are required to register your arrival at each destination.
Over-stayers:
The local authorities take a firm stance on foreigners who over-stay on their visas. Those that do so without valid reasons will experience issues, including fines, detention and deportation when trying to leave Russia. Under the Russian law, the overstayer’s sponsor must assist to apply for an exit visa on the former’s behalf. Over-stayers will also find it challenging to secure accommodation, as most hotels and hostels will not accept guests without valid visas.
Travel between Russia and Belarus:
Foreigners are not permitted to cross the land border between Russia and Belarus. If you are planning to enter Russia by road from Belarus or vice-versa, you should take an alternate route through a third country. Singaporeans flying into Russia from Belarus or vice-versa are subject to immigration control. If you are transiting through Russia when flying into Belarus or transiting through Belarus when flying into Russia, please contact the nearest Russian or Belarusian Embassy/Consulate to check if a transit visa is required. If you are planning on travelling by rail between the two countries, please contact your train or tour operator when making your booking to seek their advice. You may also approach the nearest Russian or Belarusian Embassy/Consulate for the latest information.
The following advice applies to travellers visiting common tourist destinations within Russia (e.g. Moscow, St Petersburg, Ekaterinburg, Ulan-Ude, Vladivostok, etc.). Singaporeans may approach the Singapore Embassy in Moscow for specific advice if you are travelling to a remote region of Russia.
Demonstrations:
Public demonstrations and rallies may occasionally occur in large cities across Russia. Travellers are encouraged to avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. If you encounter a demonstration, exercise caution, leave the area as soon as possible, and check the local media for updates on the situation and traffic.
Driving in Russia:
Road conditions are often challenging outside of major cities and traffic regulations are not always adhered to. In winter, road travel can be hazardous due to ice and snow. Motorists should ensure that they have all the necessary documents to drive legally in Russia as traffic police may stop vehicles for spot checks. Please check with your car rental company for the most up to date requirements. An international driving permit is recommended.
Russia has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol. Those found to guilty of drink-driving can expect heavy fines, suspension of their driving permit and immediate detention.
Fraud:
As a number of Singaporean nationals have been victims of fraud, please exercise caution when using a dating service and be wary of sending money to unknown recipients.
Natural Disasters:
Parts of Russia periodically experience seismic or volcanic activity. There are occasional occurrences of flooding in the Southern regions and forest fires may occur in Siberia and the Far Eastern areas in the summer. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate and affect those with respiratory ailments.
Petty crime:
In major cities like Moscow, petty crimes like purse snatchings, and pick-pockets, most commonly occur in crowded areas and transport hubs. Travellers should also be alert to theft from unattended vehicles and from hotel rooms.
Public Transportation:
Use only registered taxis and do not share a taxi with a stranger. Where possible, ask your hotel to order a taxi for you.
We advise Singaporeans to adhere to local laws during their stay in Russia. Singaporeans are subject to all local laws and penalties. Singaporeans are advised to research local laws prior to arrival, especially for extended stays. Listed below are some offences under Russian law that travellers should be aware of:
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Foreigners are required to carry their original passport, entry and exit visa and registered migration card with them at all times as police officers do conduct identity checks in public places. A copy is not sufficient.
Russian federal law prohibits public actions that promote homosexuality and non-traditional sexual relations. Public actions that contravene this law may lead to an arrest, fine or deportation.
Photographing any military establishment or site of strategic importance is banned.
Religious activity is regulated in Russia. Foreigners visiting Russia for missionary work or to engage in a religious activity should make sure they are not inadvertently violating local laws.
There are strict regulations covering the exports of antiques, artworks and items of historical/cultural significance. Export permits from the Russian Ministry of Culture are required to export such materials and each item must be declared at the point of departure. Permits cannot be issued at the airport and must be obtained in advance. Attempting to export such items without the relevant paperwork is a serious offence.
Money:
Most money changers in Russia do not accept Singapore dollars. If you plan to buy roubles (RUB) in Russia, please bring along new US dollars or Euros. Foreigners may be required to present their passport when exchanging money at banks, hotels and money changers. It is illegal to pay for general transactions with foreign currency.
Customs:
As with most countries, Russia has restrictions on the amount of money and types of goods that may be imported and exported. Foreigners may import and export foreign currency of up to 10,000 US dollars (or equivalent) without declaring it. A customs declaration should be made if you exceed this limit. Russian authorities require travellers to declare certain categories of goods such as antiques and valuable musical instruments. If you make a declaration, please ensure that it is stamped by the Customs official at your port of entry, otherwise your foreign currency and non-declared items may be confiscated when you leave Russia.
Healthcare:
Most staff at Russian state hospitals do not speak English. A few international clinics catering to foreigners are available in larger cities, but services are costly and they usually require cash payment or proof of insurance upon admission.
Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]
Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.
Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.
When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.
For those planning to travel, here are some tips:
Before travelling
While travelling
Advisory: Email Scams
There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.
MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously. Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance. If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request. It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc. Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails. Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately. Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.
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