Russia travel advice

Russia

The FCDO advises against all travel to Russia.

Warnings and insurance

Still current at:
28 October 2026
Updated:
18 September 2026
Latest update:
Updated information regarding drone strikes that have caused sudden restrictions on airspace and airport operations (see the ‘Warnings and insurance’ and ‘Safety and security’ sections).

Your travel insurance policy may be rendered void if you travel in opposition to the guidance provided by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

FCDO advises against all travel to Russia

The FCDO recommends against all travel to Russia due to the ongoing risks and threats stemming from the invasion of Ukraine, which include:

security incidents, such as drone strikes and Russian air defence operations

a lack of available flights for returning to the UK

the limited capacity of the UK government to offer assistance

There is a heightened risk that British nationals could be detained in Russia, particularly if authorities suspect you of supporting or participating in activities deemed illegal under Russian law, even if those actions occurred outside of the country. Refer to the ‘Risk of arrest and detention’ section under ‘Safety and security’.

Russia has a history of targeting foreign nationals and holding them in custody to use as leverage against other nations. The FCDO’s ability to provide help in these situations is extremely restricted.

Furthermore, there is a significant possibility that terrorists will attempt to conduct attacks, including within major urban centres. See ‘Safety and security’.

Ongoing drone strikes and the associated activity of Russian air defences may increase hazards for civilian airspace and airport operations. See ‘Safety and security’.

Limited UK government support

While the British Embassy in Moscow and the British Consulate in Ekaterinburg remain open, the situation is subject to change without notice.

In-person assistance from the UK government within Russia is restricted. Support is particularly limited in certain regions due to the security climate and the vast size of the country, most notably in the North Caucasus.

If you require assistance, contact the 24-hour helpline at +7 495 956 7200 and select the option for consular services for British nationals.

Reach out to Russian emergency services by dialling 112.

Dual nationals

If you possess both British and Russian citizenship, Russian authorities will consider you solely as a Russian national. This restricts the consular support the UK government can offer. Should you be arrested or detained, it is unlikely that Russian officials will permit UK consular staff to visit or assist you.

Russian citizens are legally required to report any secondary nationality, including British, within 60 days of obtaining it, or within 60 days of entering Russia if the foreign nationality was acquired abroad. Parents must provide this notification for children under the age of 18. Failure to comply can lead to criminal charges. Your British passport may be seized by Russian authorities and not returned. Penalties can include fines of up to 200,000 Russian rubles (or up to one year of income) and/or up to 400 hours of compulsory labour.

Military Service

Russia maintains a military system based on conscription. Male Russian citizens between the ages of 18 and 30 may be called up for two years of mandatory military service. Conscription drives take place throughout the year.

Russian legislation prohibits eligible individuals from departing the country once a draft notice appears on the federal electronic draft register.

If you are issued a conscription notice, you will be barred from leaving Russia. Failing to report to a conscription point within seven days of receiving the notice may result in detention, restrictions on your rights, or other penalties.

In addition to standard conscription, Russia has announced a partial mobilisation. Military recruitment is active, and any individual with Russian citizenship may be drafted.