Russia to allow fans with tickets entry without a visa during FIFA World Cup 2018

The Russian State Duma, the lower legislative house, has given assent to a bill, which will allow fans holding valid tickets for any match in the FIFA World Cup 2018 to be hosted in Russia, to gain entry into Russia without a visa. Still to be given a nod by the upper house of parliament of Russia, the Federation Council, and requiring the signature of President Vladimir Putin, the bill is as good as approved.

As per the bill, soccer fans with match tickets would be allowed to stay in Russia for over a month, while the World Cup is taking place and also ten days prior to it and ten days after it. Russia Beyond The Headlines was quoted as saying that for entry into Russia, they will be given a Fan ID to avail. This would be issued after tickets are purchased by the Russian Ministry of Communications and Mass Media.

According to Russian officials, the mode of individual IDs and efficient regulations at the border will cut down the threat of any disturbances during the tournament. Holders of Fan IDs will also be eligible to utilize transport freely across the 11 cities in Russia which would be hosting World Cup matches.

The FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place 15 June to 14 July 14, 2018.