Tourism Secretary Joseph H. Durano announced at the recent "Luxury Leisure Moscow International Trade Fair for Tourism" held in Moscow, that the Russian Federation is now included among the list of countries whose nationals may enter the Philippines visa-free for 21 days or less. This is in accordance with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) foreign service circular No. 125-07 issued in August, 2007.

The news is most welcomed by the travel trade industry in Russia whose denizens had to go to Moscow to apply for a visa. This served as a deterrent for tourists, especially those from the Far East who had to fly nine hours to get to Moscow.

"Part of the agreement we had with the Russian goverment during the signing of the memorandum of agreement was to simplify border controls to make travel between out two countries hassle free. Removing the barriers that impede travel to the Philippines will definitely contribute to our aggressive posturing in the Russian market place," added Durano.

Russian tourists are known to make holiday plans favoring countries with visa-free arrangements. DoT Team Europe head Verna Covar-Buensuceso cited the case of Turkey which became a preferred destination for the affluent Russians once the visa requirement was relaxed.

Immigration officers at ports of entry may also exercise their discretion to admit holders of passports valid for at least 60 days beyond the intended period of stay.

Russian nationals who wish to stay in the Philippines for more than 21 days may be issued a 9a temporary visitor’s visa without DFA authorization.

For extension beyond the authorized period, the visitor is required to report to the Bureau of Immigration to secure an extension and pay corresponding fees.

Durano reveals that they are next working on visa–free entry for tourists from India.