Visa-free travelers to Russia must use RuID app from July 1

All foreign citizens entitled to visa-free entry to Russia will be required to use the "RuID State Services" app starting July 1. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.

Dmitry Gusev, first deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on Control, told RIA Novosti: "From July 1, a new requirement comes into force in Russia, obliging all visa-free foreign citizens to use the 'RuID' application when entering the country."

According to Gusev, the introduction of the RuID app is a matter of order and security. The application must be submitted no later than 72 hours before entering the country. "It should be noted that this is not being done to create artificial barriers," the deputy said.

This requirement does not apply to citizens of Belarus, children under six years old, diplomats, holders of service passports, and members of official delegations.