Visa to Russia: Intourist-UK Harnesses Cool Technology to Cut the Drudge for Business & Private Travellers

LONDON, July 8, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Intourist-UK (http://www.intouristuk.com/) today announced a technology-based innovation that will save business & private travellers hours of time-consuming red tape during business trips to Russia.

Currently business travellers waste hours or whole days going (in person) to an OVIR office (Ministry of the Interior) to complete compulsory Registration Of Foreigners paperwork. Frequently applicants are sent away to amend or rework their application documents, and they have to start again. A survey conducted by Intourist-UK showed this is one of the most persistent annoyances for busy travellers.

Intourist-UK clients can now simply photograph the Landing Card that was stamped at the airport, using their mobile phone, MMS the picture to Intourist - and put their feet up, while Intourist do the rest. The documentation is emailed to them - the traveller need never leave their accommodation. And it all complies with Russian law. If you prefer to scan & email your Landing Card instead, you can.

Getting this documentation isn't only a legal requirement - without it you can't rent a car, buy a sim-card, or a raft of normal activities. More importantly, it safeguards the traveller's legal security if this is challenged by Russia's ever-active police - either at random around the city, or in specially-organised check-ups at airports. The penalties for failing to complete this registration are harsh, including possible deportation and a visa blacklisting for future trips.

Intourist-UK's service is of especial value to business & private travellers who might be staying in serviced apartments, with friends, hosted by business partners, or staying in smaller hotels which cannot provide this essential service.

"Intourist-UK has put cutting-edge technology - that every traveller has in their pocket - to practical use. Getting back wasted time is every business traveller's greatest dream - we've made that dream come true" said Nikolay Chernov, CEO of Intourist-UK.

About IntouristUK:

Intourist is the UK market leader in travels to Russia. For over 70 years Intourist has been opening the gates to travellers wanting to experience the enigmatic spirit of Russia, Ukraine and the Baltics. We are a young, dynamic team passionate about Russia and her neighbours, dedicated to giving you the best possible trip. With the benefit of our original Intourist brand and extensive network of offices, hotels, suppliers and fast Visa service we are proud of our unrivalled know-how and ability to provide you with the most reliable, up-to-date, specialist knowledge available anywhere on the market.

For more information or photographs on this story, email [email protected], or visit our website at http://www.intourist.co.uk

    18 Norland Road,
    Holland Park,
    London. W11 4TR
    Tel. +44(0)20-7603-5045
    Fax. +44(0)20-7603-5876
    Email [email protected]

SOURCE Intourist UK