MOSCOW — Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed the ratification of an agreement with the United States that substantially eases the visa regime for both countries' citizens.
The agreement allows Russians and Americans
to get three-year multi-entry visas under which they can stay for up to
six consecutive months. It also eliminates Russia’s requirement that
visitors get a letter of invitation, although tourists will still need
to show advance accommodation bookings.
Easing the laborious and
limiting visa system is expected to boost business contacts between the
countries and improve tourism, particularly of Americans coming to
Russia.
Although Putin’s signing was announced Monday, the new
measures will not go into effect until after both countries exchange
notes certifying that preparations for the changes have been completed.
