Russia

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to:

• within 10km of the border with the Ukrainian Donetsk and Lugansk Oblasts
• Chechnya, Ingushetia and Dagestan and the districts of Budyonnovsky, Levokumsky, Neftekumsky, Stepnovsky and Kursky in Stavropol Krai

The FCO advise against all but essential travel to:

• within 10km of the border with the Ukrainian Kharkiv Oblast
• North Ossetia, Karachai-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria (including the Elbrus area)

The 2018 FIFA World Cup is taking place in Russia from 14 June to 15 July. The FCO has put together some top travel and safety tips to help fans travelling to Russia for the tournament.

The Football Supporters’ Federation has also published a guide to the tournament and what you can expect while in Russia. This includes detailed sections on each of the host cities.

Due to heightened political tensions between the UK and Russia, you should be aware of the possibility of anti-British sentiment or harassment at this time. If you’re currently in Russia or due to travel in the coming weeks, you’re advised to remain vigilant, avoid any protests or demonstrations and avoid commenting publicly on political developments.

While the British Embassy in Moscow is not aware of any increased difficulties for British people travelling in Russia at this time, you should follow the security and political situation closely and keep up to date with this travel advice. You may wish to sign up for our email alertsto be notified of any updates.

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Russia.

The UK doesn’t recognise Crimea as being part of Russia. See the Ukraine travel advice page for details.

Political rallies can occur in Moscow, St. Petersburg and other places across Russia. Check media for the latest information, be vigilant, and avoid any demonstrations. See Political situation

You should be aware of the risk of street crime. See Crime

According to the Federal Agency for Tourism, British nationals made around 177,000 visits to Russia in 2016. Most visits are trouble-free.

You can contact the emergency services by calling 112.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.