We realize the importance of having a process in place that is easily navigable and straightforward. For the convenience of all who will attend the 2010 Championships, Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs will implement a simplified visa process. While it remains that every individual who enters the Russian Federation must be accompanied by a valid visa, this process may be streamlined by submitting an official letter from ITTF on all officials and individuals requesting visas. In this case, visas will be issued immediately.

The following measures will be put in place prior to the Championships:

• Increased workforce and extended hours of operation at consular posts;
• On-site visa support provided upon arrival;
• Help bureau that operates 24-hours a day.

Fans will obtain all visas and necessary documentation through designated travel agencies which specialize in these procedures and who have a great deal of experience expediting this process.

Also, there will be no special work permits required for temporary personnel. The import of all items necessary to perform competition-related obligations for the ITTF, the National Federations, the media and sponsors and suppliers will be classified as duty-free.

The Ministry of Foreign Affaires of the Russian Federation is also currently working to ease visa regulations by introducing an exemption for citizens of respective countries of the European Union – the respective agreement between Russia and EU has already been ratified by the State Duma of Russia and will soon be signed by the President. This initiative will likely take effect in the second quarter of 2007.

Visa Issuance Procedure

Visa requirements at the WTTC 2010