Obtaining a visa — an important stage in trip preparation. And although visa rules depend on the country, the consulate, and your situation, in 2025 you can already rank the countries where it is easiest to get a visa. We compiled this list based on consular openness, approval rates, processing times, and flexibility of requirements.
Key Factors Affecting the “Ease” of Getting a Visa
Before moving on to the ranking, it is important to understand what influences your chances:
- Visa Type — tourist and visitor visas are generally easier to obtain than work or student visas.
- Consular Practice — even under the same rules, some consulates are more lenient.
- Documents and Submission — careful preparation of the application form and supporting papers sharply increases the likelihood of approval.
Country Ranking: Visas with Minimal Difficulties in 2025
1. Spain
Spanish consulates remain among the most tourist-friendly. Even for a first-time application, you can count on a multiple-entry visa if you properly prepare your application form and itinerary.
👉 Useful: If you are applying for the first time, consider obtaining your first Schengen visa through Spain.
2. Italy
Italian visa centres often accommodate applicants, especially when there is a letter of invitation or a tourist itinerary. It is important to clearly state the purpose of your visit and provide supporting evidence.
Tip: It is convenient to obtain an Italian visa if you plan a multi-country itinerary — just make sure that Italy is your main destination.
3. Greece
Greece consistently issues multiple-entry visas to tourists with an existing visa history. It is also well suited for those traveling with family.
Important: Consulates assess the accuracy of your documents — it is best to read the Schengen Visa Application Instructions in advance.
4. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
It is very easy to obtain a UAE visa through a travel agency or online, especially if you are flying with Emirates or FlyDubai. A booking confirmation and your passport are often sufficient.
Nice bonus: The UAE is one of the few destinations where you can obtain a visa in 1–2 days.
5. Thailand
A visa for Thailand may not be required at all — Russian citizens can stay visa-free for up to 60 days (under the current visa waiver agreement). If a visa is needed, it is easy to obtain through the consulate or eVisa.
6. China (Business or Tourist Visa)
Since reopening its borders, Chinese consulates have been actively issuing visas. In 2025, the rules for tourist and business visas have been simplified — a standard set of documents and a booking are sufficient.
Good to know: You can obtain a visa to China through an agency — this will speed up the process. For more details, see the article “Visa to China: How to Obtain a Tourist or Business Visa”.
7. United Kingdom
Although it seems strict, the British Standard Visitor visa is often approved for those who correctly prepare their financial documents and itinerary. Applications can be submitted online.
See the article “UK Visa: Features and Requirements After Brexit”.
8. Japan
For Russian citizens, the visa to Japan is free of charge and is issued upon presenting an itinerary, booking, and financial documents. Multiple-entry visas are also possible if you have visited the country before.
What Can Simplify Obtaining a Visa?
To obtain a visa to any country with the highest chances:
- Prepare proof of your travel purpose
- Ensure you have sufficient financial guarantees
- Accompany your application with an itinerary plan or an invitation
- If possible — consult specialists, especially if you have no visa history or have been refused before
👉 For more on this — in the articles “Documents for a Visa: Complete List” and “Financial Guarantees: How to Prove Solvency”
Conclusion
In 2025, the visa policies of many countries remain predictable: tourism-oriented and open-to-cooperation countries continue to issue visas willingly and quickly. The main thing is to approach the application responsibly and consider all nuances. And if you want to minimize risks, consult a visa agency: this will increase your chances of success on the first try.
