Pre-arrival Information

Russian immigration and arrival information:

You will receive an Immigration Card either on the plane before you land in Russia or just after you land. It will look like (or be a variant of) the below. There is a Part A and a Part B. Both are to be filled out upon arrival, and are to be filled out identically. Part A (the upper part) will be kept by the immigration officials when you enter the country. Part B (the lower part) you must keep safely in your passport, as you will be asked to return this upon your departure from Russia. Please see notes in right hand column on how to fill out.

	Unless you are of Russian origin, you probably do not have a patronymic, and can leave blank Hotel Kempinski, Moika 22, or other address if you are staying somewhere else. DO NOT FILL OUT ANYTHING HERE
	To be filled out exactly as above.

If you are bringing more than $3,000 or other currency equivalent, you are required to fill out a Customs Declaration Form. You must also complete this form if you are carrying personal items (jewelry, cameras, binoculars, etc) valued at more than $1000. After arrival at the Russian airport you will first pass through Passport Control. Please have your passport, visa and the Immigration Card ready.

Once you have reclaimed your luggage, proceed to Customs. If you are carrying less than $3,000, or less than $1,000 of personal items, should follow the "green channel." If you are carrying more than that, you should follow the "red channel" and have your Customs Declaration stamped by the customs official. You will need this stamped document when you depart the country. Having it available on departure will save time and prevent substantial penalties.

After passing through Passport Control, collect your luggage in baggage claim and pass through Customs. After clearing customs, we (Hermitage Tours) will meet you and bring you to the hotel. Please look out for the Hermitage logo sign.

Packing suggestions:

• Warm outerwear: coat, gloves, hat.
• Raingear: raincoat and/or umbrella.
• Comfortable, water-resistant walking shoes and extra socks.
• A shawl or scarf for women to cover their head to show respect when entering Russian orthodox churches.
• "Business casual" or "smart casual" clothing for evening.
• Eyeglasses, contacts, contact lens solution.
• All needed medications (keep these in your carry-on luggage) in sufficient supply for the entire trip. You may wish to bring extra prescription medication and keep it separate from your main supply, since refilling prescriptions in Russia can be difficult. Keep medications in their original, labeled container.
• Extra camera memory or film; extra camera battery or battery charger.
• Copies of:
  - The first page of your passport and the Russian visa page.
  - The credit cards you carry.
  (and pack the copies in your luggage, separate from your purse, day-pack or wallet)
  

• A fold-up suitcase for souvenirs or excess weight.
• A small thank-you gift for the host of your communal lunch.
• Speakers for your iPod, if you have one. Your own music is a treat after a busy day.
• Snacks that travel well, especially if you have special diet needs. It helps to have something to tide you over.
• A lightweight daypack or travel bag and a smaller bag for evening.
• For anyone traveling from America an electrical converter for American appliances (Russia is 220V, not 110V) and plug adapter.
• Travel journal.
• A cable for your laptop, if you bring it.

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