Do I need a new visa for Russia if my name has been legally changed?

Do I need a new visa for Russia if my name has been legally changed? - Woods Covered With Snow

I am a U.S. passport holder and have a three-year-multiple-entry tourist visa for Russia which is still valid.

My first name was legally changed, and I have a new passport issued in that name as well as the court order. The visa is in my old/cancelled passport.

Must I apply for a new visa or may I travel to and from Russia using the still-valid visa in my old passport?



Best Answer

I can't find any reference to it at the moment, but to the best of my knowledge, the visa is still valid. I know this from a friend who's been in exactly this situation (name change after marriage). When you travel, you need to have with you:

  • Your old (no longer valid) passport with the (still valid) visa in your old name
  • Court document confirming your name change
  • Notarised translation of this court document into Russian (this may not be strictly needed, but better have it)
  • Your new passport into your new name

If you are still unsure, I suggest you contact Russian Consulate section or a visa agency. If you're in the USA, the phone number of the Russian Consulate visa section in New York is (212) 348-5762. Alternatively the Consulate recommends using an agency called Russian Visa Centre. The phone numbers of that agency are (212) 430-59-90 (in New York) or (202) 827-0880 (in Washington). It won't hurt giving them a call.




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How can I change my name in Russia?

To change your name, submit a petition to your local Superior Court that details the reasons you'd like to change your name. After the court approves your request, you'll then need to update your Social Security card, driver's license and passport.

How do I change my name on my Russian passport?

Whether you have a valid Russian internal passport or not, you can still apply for an official name change in your Russian travel passport through either a Russian Consulate or Embassy in the U.S. Russian Consulates abroad have very strict requirements about documents they accept for name changes.

Do I need a new US visa if I change my name?

If your name has legally changed through marriage, divorce, or a court ordered name change, you will need to obtain a new passport. Once you have a new passport, the Department of State recommends that you apply for a new U.S. visa to make it easier for you to travel to and from the United States. I changed my name.

Why do Russian visas get rejected?

Incomplete supporting documentation is the most common reason for refusing one a visa. Refusal is also possible if the visa application was not filled out correctly. If the applicant was issued with an entry ban to the Russian Federation, they will be refused an entry visa in the Russian Embassy or Consulate.



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