In 2026, Russia remains open to most nationalities, but the ease of entry and logistical feasibility depend heavily on geopolitical alignments. Citizens from "Friendly Countries"—including China, India, Brazil, South Africa, Turkey, and many UAE nations—can visit with relatively simple visa processes or via the electronic visa (e-visa) system. For citizens of "Unfriendly Countries" (such as the UK, USA, Canada, and EU members), travel is still legally possible, but visas are harder to obtain, often requiring in-person appointments and extensive documentation. The primary barrier in 2026 is not the visa itself, but the lack of direct flights from the West and the fact that Western credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) do not work in Russia due to sanctions. Travelers from the West must typically transit through hubs like Istanbul, Dubai, or Belgrade and carry significant amounts of cash. While the Russian border remains technically open to almost all who have a valid visa, the "friction" of travel has made it an exceptionally niche destination for Western tourists compared to pre-2022 levels.