Latvia – electronic applications for visa
Starting from April 1, 2012 the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia in Moscow has started to accept only electronic applications for visa. Later, the new procedure will be gradually introduced in other diplomatic missions of Latvia in Russia.
Applicants can fill in the electronic application on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia.
Before this, it is necessary to read the instruction and choose an appropriate consulate.
http://www.travel.ru/news/2012/03/23/199364.html
Greek Visa Center - changes of working hours
Starting from April 1, 2012 due to the beginning of high tourist season, the Greek Visa Center has extended its working hours. As in the previous year, applicants can now apply for visa also on Saturday, from 10.00 to 14.00.
http://www.travel.ru/news/2012/04/10/199953.html
U.S. visa processing fees have increased
Starting from April 13, 2012 most categories of nonimmigrant visa processing fees have increased. Thus, the application fee for the most common visa types B1/B2, all types of student and exchange visas (F, M, J) is $160. H, L visas (temporary work, trainees) now cost $190 (instead of $150).
http://www.ustraveldocs.com/ru_ru/ru-niv-visafeeinfo.asp
UK visa processing fees have increased
Starting from April 6, 2012 most categories of UK visa fees have increased. Now visa for the period up to 6 months (short-term, single or multiple entries) costs $129 (instead of $125).
Long-term visa valid for up to 1 and 2 years costs $446 (instead of $437), up to 5 and 10 years - $818 ($802) and $1181 ($1158) respectively.
Consulate fee for all types of transit visas is $86 ($84). Visa transfer to a new passport - $168 ($165).
Consulate fee for student visa valid for up to 6 months is $129 (instead of $125). Visa application fee for English language course visitors (stay allowed for up to 11 months) and applicants (students) of category – 4 have stated the same: $231 and $477.
Let us remind you that planned increase of visa application fees has been implemented in order to reduce the difference between visa prime cost and the present tariffs. According to the British Minister of Immigration Affairs Damian Green, those, who take benefit from immigration system shall bear the main expenses for its operation. Thereby the rates for British taxpayers can be reduced. Increase of the application processing fees can partly balance the budget deficit, since the present visa fee rates are lower than visa prime cost.
http://www.travel.ru/news/2012/04/16/200135.html
Turkey – visa free period of stay up to 60 days
Turkey has increased visa free period of stay up to 60 days for the Russian citizens. According to the decision of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkey, this regime will be valid from May 4, 2012 until December 31, 2012 inclusive.
Russian citizens are still required to stay on the territory of Turkey for not more than 90 days within the each period of 180 days. Those, who plan to visit Turkey for more than 60 days shall apply for visa to the Consulate of Turkey in Russia in advance.
http://www. tourinfo.ru
