Belgian citizens currently have the unified e‑visa as the first route for a suitable short Russian trip. It is one entry, up to 30 days and no invitation.
The present rule
Apply on the official portal from 86 to 4 days before entry. The issued e‑visa is valid for 120 days, while the stay inside Russia is limited to 30 days. Verify the exact border checkpoint and carry appropriate medical insurance.
Each child needs a separate application. The passport used must meet the machine-readable and six-month-from-application validity requirements.
Brussels itinerary test
Brussels–Istanbul–Moscow–Brussels is one Russian entry. Brussels–Moscow–Yerevan–Moscow–Brussels is two. The second itinerary needs a regular route or a redesign.
Belgian residence is not Belgian citizenship
A Congolese, Moroccan or other foreign citizen resident in Belgium follows the passport used. Belgian residence can be relevant to regular-visa filing jurisdiction; it does not transfer Belgium’s e‑visa eligibility.
When an invitation is relevant
Longer stays, multiple entries, work, study or another purpose outside e‑visa scope can require a regular visa. Only then choose the invitation belonging to that category.
Before pressing submit
Treat the issued e‑visa as a document to audit, not a success screen to close. Compare the spelling, passport number, birth date, validity and permitted stay with the same passport that will travel. Save an accessible copy and follow the portal’s current carrying instructions. A private review can spot inconsistencies; only the official portal can issue the e‑visa.
The Belgium answer
For one eligible visit up to 30 days, use e‑visa and skip the invitation. Let the exact dates and borders—not a generic “visa Russie” product page—make the decision.