In accordance with the Decree of the Government of Russia of 28.08.2003 No. 532 cruise passengers that arrive to Russia on a cruise ship and stay for less than 72 hours do not need to obtain a visa if they are residing aboard the ship. If a person is travelling independently or wants to spend over 72 hours in Russia, then it is necessary to obtain a visa.

In order to disembark from a ship without a visa a foreign citizen must have an ID(passport), tour ticket and be listed in the lists with passport details and tour group program. A member of a tour group that does not have a visa can only visit places indicated in the tour program.