Travelling to Russia for the World Cup? You’ll need a FAN ID.
Here’s everything you need to know
Football fans who are travelling to attend football matches during the World Cup will not require visas to enter Russia. Instead all match goers will need to get their hands on a ‘FAN ID’.
If you’re planning to cheer your country on at the World Cup here’s everything you need to know in order to apply for a FAN ID.
What is a FAN ID?
A FAN ID is a mandatory document for all the World Cup spectators. It is a small laminated form which contains some details about you. It will grant you multiple visa-free entries into Russia for the duration of the tournament. You will need to have your FAN ID with you in order to gain access to a stadium
Present your passport (it must be valid for at least 6 months after your departure from Russia. It must also be signed by the passport holder and undamaged) and FAN ID at passport control at a border crossing point of the Russian Federation. You will be issued an immigration card. Keep it until you leave Russia.
How can I get my FAN ID?
FAN IDs are only issued to match ticket holders. So before you apply for your FAN ID, you will need to purchase a ticket to a game during the tournament.
Once you have bought your ticket, keep your ticket/ticket request number at hand as you will need this when you apply for your FAN ID. You can apply for your FAN ID at www.fan-id.ru.
If you will be attending multiple matches at the tournament you will not need multiple IDs as a FAN ID is issued once for all matches. Each FAN ID is valid from 10 days prior to the first match and end 10 days after the final match.
What happens after I complete my FAN ID application?
If the application is approved, you will receive a FAN ID either:
- By collecting it at the FAN ID Distribution Centres in Russia
- Postal or courier delivery to your home or office etc
If you are collecting your FAN ID at a Distribution centre you will need the original of an identity document, your match ticket and your FAN ID application number.
What else can I do with my FAN ID?
A FAN ID also entitles you to free travel on match days in the city the game is being played and on trains between match cities. If you are traveling on a free train you’ll need your passport, FAN ID and match ticket with you in order to board the train.
What should I do if I lose my FAN ID?
If you lose your FAN ID while you’re in Russia you can get a replacement at FAN ID Distribution Centres.
What if I’m going to Russian during the World Cup but I’m not attending a match?
It’s important to note however, that if you are visiting Russia during the World Cup, but you are not attending any matches, you will need a valid visa to enter the country. Visa First can organise your Russian visa for you. Get started here.