Travel Vaccines and Advice for Russia

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Russia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Russia: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

Mosquito-borne diseases are less common in Russia than many other countries. This is due, at least in part, to the climate of many of the region. But, Japanese encephalitis is still a threat in some areas. Consult with a travel health specialist to learn if you’ll need this vaccine.

Tuberculosis is a large burden on Russia’s population. While risk to travellers is low, consider a two-step skin test or tuberculosis blood test after your trip if you believe you may have been exposed.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.

All Canadian citizens require either a business Telex, standard business/ work, or tourism visa to enter Russia. If you have dual citizenship, you still must travel to Russia with Russian documents regardless of other citizenship. Single entry telex visas can be received in 6 business days while all other visas can take anywhere from 6 – 14 business days.

Russia Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Russia?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Russia and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Russian immigration policy can be difficult to navigate and violations could lead to expulsion from the country. Let Passport Health help you travel worry-free with our expert Passport and Visa Services.

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

Russia offers some of the most diverse landscapes and climate conditions of any country in the world. This, in part, is because of the country’s size. Research temperatures and conditions based where you will be going.

• Moscow – The capital city has cold winters and mild summers. From June through August, temperatures are usually around 21 degrees Celsius. From November through February, they can drop below -10 and even -17 degrees.
• St. Petersburg – July is the hottest month in St. Petersburg with highs around 15 degrees Celsius. January is the coldest month, with temperatures falling below freezing for the high.
• Siberia – One of the more popular destinations in Russia, Siberia offers a wide range of climates. The province hosts famously cold winters and warm, tropical summers. The first snow typically falls in early October. Rains are common throughout spring and early summer.

The most mild temperatures are along the Baltic Coast. The most varied temperatures occur in the Northern and Central regions of Russia.

According the Canadian Travel and Tourism, terrorism remains a very real threat in Russia and throughout most of Europe. It is important to exercise caution throughout the country.

Political unrest is still a raging issue throughout many parts of Russia. Incidents have been reported of American travellers being kidnapped for ransom. Travellers must exercise caution while visiting the country.

Avoid travel to hot spots like Chechnya and the Chrimea as active hostilities are still ongoing and risks are high.

Popular tourist destinations like St. Petersburg and Moscow are safer to visit. But, petty and other crime is common. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid wearing anything that could make you a target.

Russia’s political climate is less open than many Western nations. Be careful what you say and where you say it to avoid confrontation.

Dargavs is located in the republic of North Ossetia in southern Russia. It lies in the middle of a mountain valley which stretches over 15 kilometres.

Hidden in the Caucasus mountains, the city is actually an ancient necropolis. Former residents buried their loved ones in this site.

Though the exact reason residents buried their family beneath the site remains unknown. The cryptic city continues to inspire myths and legends to this day.

The mysterious, abandoned area has been a muse for some of the world’s greatest poets and storytellers.

This region of southern Russia has been the site of some violent clashes in recent years. Take extra precautions if visiting this site.

As a leading global economy, Russia has many of the comforts travellers expect. But, there are still a few key items to make sure are in your bag.

• Money Belt – If you’re planning on visiting popular tourist attractions in places like Moscow or St. Petersburg, have a secure way to carry your money. These areas are typically crowded and pick-pocketing is a common occurrence. Be prepared and aware of your surroundings.
• Power Converter – Russia does not use the same power connectors or voltage as North America. Bring a converter if you’re planning on using any non-European electronics.
• Copy of Passport and Visa – It is best to carry a copy of both of these items with you at all times within Russia to avoid any issues with officials. While rare, situations have been known to occur.
• Sim Card – Travellers should consider purchasing a local sim card. The phone chip is useful should you make any international calls and will help to keep roaming charges down. Not all phones can accept these chips. Purchasing a local phone is a sometimes inexpensive option.

Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Russia, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:

Canadian Embassy in Moscow
23 Starokonyushenny Pereulok
Moscow 119002 Russia
(near the Stary Arbat street, Metro: Kropotkinskaya)
Tel.: + 7 (495) 925-6000

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!