We have compiled a list of recommendations that will be useful both for travelers staying in Russia  for a long time or just  a couple of days.

 

1. Take your passport with you wherever you go. As a rule, it is needed to buy phone SIM-cards, enter a business center or university, and even return   goods to the store. Russian citizens carry their passports with them everywhere   (or at least a copy of it).

2. Documents are “sacred”. If you buy a ticket, make sure you use the right passport and the correct spelling of the name, because one letter written incorrectly, or the wrong passport used when buying, can mean that a person will not get on the plane. 

 
3. Some tourists are surprised by the huge bills for telephone calls in roaming between the cities of Russia. Check your tariff and subscribe to any special one to minimize the cost on the trip.
 

5. Foreign bank cards. Some foreigners (especially Americans) have problems using foreign bank cards, since most ATMs in Russia accept them only with a PIN code. Get a PIN-code for your credit card in advance, if you do not have it. Also, some foreign banks reject online purchases on certain Russian sites - be prepared to go there personally   or call their bank and ask them to confirm the operation. In addition, holders of foreign cards are limited in withdrawing money in an ATM (usually 7500 rubles or 162 dollars).

 

6. Registration. Foreigners must register their visa within seven working days after arriving in Russia, excluding holidays and weekends, otherwise they may be fined or deported. This law was changed in 2011 (earlier the registration period was 72 hours). The hotels must register you automatically. If you are staying in a private apartment, then the owner of the house must go to the local police department or to the post office to register you. If you have a work visa, then your employer will take care of this. If you are traveling with a tourist visa, then the travel agency that sent the invitation should help you.

 

7. Despite the fact that in theory all hotels must register foreigners, some do not. You should always call the hotel at the time of booking and ask if they register, if it is not written on their website.

 

8. Borders. The rules for crossing Russian borders for citizens of Russia and foreigners are different. It is better to clarify in advance if you are going to travel to the border area. Always bring your passport and registration with you.

 

Sources: http://www.forumdaily.com