The holder of an American passport can visit Russia without a visa for up to 72 hours if they are arriving by air and meeting certain requirements, such as having a confirmed onward or return ticket. This arrangement is known as a “visa-free” stay.
However, most stays in Russia exceeding 72 hours require a regular Russian visa, which typically takes several weeks to process.
Please note that these rules may be subject to change, so it’s always best to check with the Russian Embassy or Consulate for the latest information before traveling.
Additionally, if you’re planning to work, study, or stay in Russia for an extended period, you’ll likely need a longer-stay visa (such as a Work Visa or Student Visa).