Why does Nizhni Novgorod have visa restrictions?
When filling out a form for a Russian visa, there is a specific question asking if I will be flying directly into a city called Nizhnii Novgorod from outside of Russia. I am not, but I think it's weird and wondered why they are asking. I find some information about this on the web:
If you are flying directly into Nizhnii Novgorod from outside of Russia, for example from Vienna, and wish to use a tourist visa, this now requires a special voucher. Processing time is one business day and the cost is an additional £45.00 on top of the standard visa charge. Please make sure that when ordering you select Nizhnii Novgorod as your arrival city, and enter “flying direct” into the comments box.
But I do not find any other “official” comment or explanation of the reason. Is it just some sort of local (city) tax, or are there security reasons for requiring a specific visa for this city? (and then, only if you fly in, but not if you take the train/bus/car)
Best Answer
The information on that site is likely fraudulent (note that there's a phone number of local travel firms which you are expected to call to get a "voucher"). Nizhny Novgorod is NOT a closed or restricted city and there are no specific limitations, at least legal, on visiting it. You can find a complete list of closed cities on Wikipedia. It's better to use only official information about Russian visas.
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