travel questions - Russian passport, visas, etc.

[Steve S 2]

Hi again to this group - I have not logged onto VJ for a long time!

This topic has been discussed before I am sure, but I didn't see it in the last several months. My wife and I wish to visit her parents in Russia and also see some other country on the way back. She would be using her Russian travel passport which is in her maiden name (which would also be the name on her plane ticket), and then show her green card when we return. We would take along a copy of the marriage certificate to be safe. First question, am I correct on this procedure and does this generally go smoothly or is there something else I should think about?

The main questions I have are about visa requirements for visiting the third country. We have heard before that with the exception of a few countries such as Turkey or Egypt, she would need a visa to visit that country. True? Does the fact that she has a green card change the situation at all? Does anyone have a complete list of exempt countries or link for finding this information? What about a list of countries for which an American needs a visa? We heard also that for some countries she would mail an application, for others she would have to visit the embassy, and possibly in some cases she would have to apply in person, in Russia. Can someone clarify the correct procedure for obtaining her travel visa? Can someone recommend a good place for us to visit for 2 or 3 days, with a minimum of hassle. We were considering someplace like Prague or Amsterdam on the way back. Or maybe Istanbul. Lastly, is my own application process for receiving another visa to visit Russia affected at all by the fact that we are married?

[Neonred 3,564]

Here is a good place to get info about what visas are needed. http://www.delta.com/planning_reservations/plan_flight/international_travel_information/visa_passport_information/index.jsp The green card will get her into Canada and Mexico and several Caribbean islands, but that's it.

You are correct about her needing visas for most other places and how to get them. We went to France and Italy a few years back and had to make a trip to the French consulate to apply for the visa. Also took a trip to Australia and were able to get the visa by mail.

You will still need the usual visitor visa for yourself to visit Russia.

Edited November 30, 2011 by Neonred