Normally visitors have seven business days to register their stay in Russia.
However a special decree was signed on 12 May, 2018 which shortens this period to three calendar days during the World Cup, which is a requirement for all 11 cities hosting football matches.
The good news is the registry offices are open seven days a week, so disregard their normal business hours.
Those are special measures set and signed by the president of the Russian Federation and only affect the period from 25 of May to 25 July.
Where you can register
During this period a foreign visitor can apply for registration only at the Directorate for Migration Affairs which is a local branch of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Here is thelist of local directorates.
What documents you need
- Your passport and a copy of it
- The migration card. You'll receive this at the airport the first time you go through passport control. Make sure you keep it on you throughout your journey.
- A copy of your visa or the FAN ID
If you are staying at a hotel, reception staff are normally able to register you.
Be it a hotel or a private accommodation like Airbnb, your host is required to submit the documents on their behalf.
Here is the blank document you can download for you and your host.
Since it's only available in Russian and has two sections for the resident and the hosting party, your host will assist you to fill it in.
The Smartraveller website suggests tourists ask their host upon arrival about registering guests.
Good news
Unless you are staying longer than three calendar days in the one place, you don't need to register. Hurray!
Although the process might seem daunting, it is actually much simpler than it sounds.
Enjoy your stay!
