Russia has a deep history of domestic events, and also international events, and thus the country has many reasons to celebrate and have national holidays also. These dates are important to consider whilst applying for your Russia visa in London, or actually visiting Russia. If you making your Russia visa application in the UK, then on these dates, the visa to Russia processing centres will be closed, hence causing a delay in the application by about a day or so. Below are the dates, and a brief history of why they are celebrated in Russia. Note, that the dates presented below are officially recognised by the Russian government, and if any of these dates fall on a weekend, then the national holiday is moved to a Monday.

New Year and Christmas

Like most of the world, the New Year day is given as a day of celebration and is often the first day of celebration. Christmas is also a national holiday, and its has many close ties with the Russian Orthodox Church in Russia. Although according to their calendar, Christmas comes actually on the 7th January. Therefore if you are planning on visiting to country during this time, ensure that you have your Russia visa well in advance on these holidays.

Defender of the Fatherland Day

This national holiday is on the 23rd February, and its purpose is to honor Russians of past and present who are or have served in the Armed Forces. This actually used to be called “Red Army Day” during the Soviet days. The day aims to respect all generations of Russian soldiers who have defended this vast country. It is normal for people to join together to part, and also for women lovers to spoil their partners with attention. If you can plan your visit to Russia for this day, it will surely be insightful, although be sure to allow for this day when applying for your Russia visa.

International Women’s Day

This day is on the 8th March and was officially created by the United Nations in order to celebrate women and their accomplishments which have been given to society. Although this is a worldwide day, it is mainly recognised in the former Soviet republics. The tradition for this day is for women to receive gives, flowers and other wonderful items that show love, devotion and work. These days around the world it can be also know as another form of Valentines Day or mother’s day. The Russia visa office is usually closed on these days also, so bear this in mind when making your application.

Spring and Labor Day

This is on the 1st May, and is in the former Soviet Union. This is also known as International Workers’ Day. Although not celebrated much in the world, there are small parades in Moscow. There are more celebrations in countries like North Korea and Cuba. Other national holidays to consider when applying for your Russia visa include:

Victory Day – every 9th May
Russia Day which is celebrated every June 12.
Unity Day which is celebrated every 4th November

For more information on the national holidays or for further information on getting your Russia visa application, please visit us at www.rapid-visas.co.uk.