Way to Russia Talk Lounge

Jules · Posted: Fri Jul 16, 2004 7:21 am Post subject: Novorsibirsk to Tashkent

I am planning a return trip from Novorsibirsk to Tashkent Is a tourist or transit visa needed for this journey?

JT · Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 1:56 pm Post subject:

Hi Jules!

I'm an Australian and I have also completed this journey. Depending on your method of travel, you will need several visas.

By train:

You will want a tourist visa for Russia to give you more flexibility than awkward transit visas.

You will need a transit visa for Kazakstan, which you will pass through on the train. This is reasonably easy, sort of, to get, and is essential. If you don't have one, you will be kicked off the train.

You will need a tourist visa for Uzbekistan.

Finally, you will need a second tourist visa to re-enter Russia, if you are travelling the other way by train. As of November 2003, Russian consulates in Australia mysteriously refuse to issue double-entry tourist visas.

If you're flying, a transit visa may be sufficient for your needs. Beware of the aviation safety standards of Uzbekistan Airways, on which I have travelled.

Cheers,

JT

Jules · Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 4:02 am Post subject: Novosibirsk to Tashkent

Thanks JT for your info. Especially about the importance of atransit visa in Kazakstan. We have just applied for a double entry visa to the Russian Consulate in Sydney. We'll see if it gets knocked back.

we want to travel from Tashkent to Khiev. Do you know if the rail trip is good - ie picturesque and safe?