On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree that waives visa requirements for entry into the Russian Federation for international athletes and other individuals involved in sporting events. This announcement was made by the Russian government. Coaches, athletes and other personnel who are to participate in international athletic events that will be held in Russia will benefit from the waiver which goes into effect immediately. Foreign nationals are typically required to apply for a visa a number of weeks ahead of their arrival in the country.
The official release from the Kremlin stated that international athletics events participants can get in and out of the Russian Federation without having to apply for a Russian visa for as long as they have the basic requirements confirming their participation and identity.
Requirements for a visa-free status
Coaches, athletes and other staff members, including accompanying medical personnel can easily qualify for a visa-free status to Russia if they have official accreditation from the organizers of the event that they will be attending. This is the first requirement. Another must is that they also need to present documentation that confirms their identity.
There are a number of international athletic events which will be held in the country in the foreseeable future. In August of this year, Russia will host the Athletics World Championships (track and field) which will be held in Moscow. Russia will also be hosting the Winter Olympics in 2014 and the FIFA World Cup in 2018.
Additional details to be revealed
Aside from official accreditation and verifiable identification additional details are still forthcoming. There have been no additional statements from the Kremlin after the announcement, but the Russian government has confirmed that it would soon publish the specific regulations on critical matters such as the duration of time that those without visas can stay in the country.
Photo Credit: Vladimir Putin
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