British national studying in Poland - need a Russian visa, what to do?

Hey all,

Title may seem really basic, but it isn't for me since I've never had to apply for a visa before.

I'm studying here for a year but in April I am going to study in Russia for 3 months, so I need a student visa. I was under the impression that being a British national, I would have to travel all the way back to the UK to use the Russian embassy there, but I've been told I can apply at a Russian embassy here in Poland, and I also got my residency permit back so I am 'legit'. Okay, great. So I then tried to email the consulate but got no reply (don't know if it was because it was in English, I did apologise, an email seemed better than directly going there and potentially embarrassing myself). So what do I exactly need to do? I also believe I need to have a HIV test done and maybe medical insurance (?) (I have the EHIC card here). I mean where can I go to get all of these things done? Or maybe it may be easier just to go back to the UK?

Any advice would be appreciated!

Why would you be embarrassed?? Have you checked with the British embassy. They could probably advise you as I'm sure you're not the first Brit who's had to get a visa for another country whilst living in Poland. Or what about your college? Can the office there not assist?

Actually, the rumour has it that it can be quite hard to get a Russian visa if applying in a country other than the country of your passport. Therefore, you just may be better off to apply in London.

Also, it's a very standard procedure to use a visa agency for Russian visas as it can get a bit complex dealing with their embassies. You should be able to find an agency easily in the UK. It shouldn't be too expensive but, of course, there is a fee for their services.

Try here - tamarawizy.pl/krakow/