Russia international travel guide in 2023

Do not travel to Russia due to the security environment and military conflict with Ukraine. If you’re in Russia, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it’s safe to do so. The Australian Government has authorised the voluntary departure of dependants of Australian Embassy staff in Moscow. The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. The Russian parliament has passed laws that severely inhibit free speech related to the current situation, imposing restrictions on the publishing and distribution of information related to the Russian armed forces and any military operations. Remain vigilant and avoid any protests or demonstrations and commenting publicly on political developments. Non-participating bystanders can draw scrutiny from security forces and have been detained. Given the substantial police presence and mass arrests, you should avoid demonstrations and any demonstration-related activities. Russian authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia. Russian authorities may enforce local laws in an arbitrary manner. You may be interrogated without cause by Russian officials, and may become a victim of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion. The US Government issued travel advice on 29 March advising that Russian security services have arrested US citizens on spurious charges, singled out US citizens in Russia for detention and/or harassment, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and have convicted them in secret trials and/or without presenting credible evidence. The US Government warns that Russian officials may unreasonably delay consular assistance to detained US citizens. Conscription occurs regularly in Russia. The government may subject males it regards as Russian to mandatory conscription, regardless of any other citizenship held. Conscription in Russia occurs semi-annually and, conscripts typically serve one year. The first conscription of 2022 will take place from 1 April to 15 July. If you’re in Russia, register your whereabouts on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's registration portal for Australian citizens in Russia – see the 'Safety' section for details on how to register. Keep your registration details up to date to ensure we’re aware of your situation and can provide you with the latest information. Continue to monitor Smartraveller for updates. If, despite our advice, you remain in Russia you may be affected by shortages of essential products and services. Several security incidents have occurred in the Belgorod region of Russia bordering Ukraine, including an explosion at a fuel depot. The security situation in the region could deteriorate at short notice. You shouldn't attempt to travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia. On 11 April 2022, the EU announced that 21 Russian owned airlines were banned from flying in EU airspace due to safety concerns. DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths. If you’re flying domestically or internationally, you should research your aviation provider. Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe have been impacted by measures taken in response to military action in Ukraine. A number of Russian airports are now closed to the public. The train service between St Petersburg and Helsinki is suspended. Bus services to Finland are operating. If you’re planning to depart Russia, confirm with your transport operator that services are still operating. There are reports of non-Russian credit and debit cards being declined in Russia. Be prepared with alternate means of payment should your cards be declined. If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You’re responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Make sure your travel documents are up to date. If you have significant concerns for your welfare, or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia. We continue to advise: Do not travel to Russia overall due to the security environment and military conflict with Ukraine.