Rules of entry and exit from the Republic of Abkhazia

Entry and Exit Rules for the Republic of Abkhazia

Entry and exit rules for foreign nationals (including Russian citizens) travelling to and from the Republic of Abkhazia are governed by the Law of the Republic of Abkhazia «On the Procedure for Entry into and Exit from the Republic of Abkhazia».

Documents required for Russian citizens

To cross the border, Russian citizens must carry a Russian domestic passport or international passport. Children under 14 must carry a Russian international passport or a birth certificate with a stamp confirming Russian citizenship (the «red stamp»).

Children under 18 travelling from Russia to Abkhazia with at least one parent do not require a notarised consent from the other parent. Please note: in this case, the child must carry their birth certificate regardless of age — even if they already hold their own passport. The birth certificate is required to establish the family relationship between the child and the accompanying parent.

Children under 18 travelling without both parents (or legal guardians) must carry, in addition to their passport, a notarised consent from the absent parent(s) or guardian(s), specifying the permitted travel period and destination country.

Russian citizens do not require a visa to visit Abkhazia for stays of up to 90 days.

Visa-free entry for other foreign nationals

In accordance with a Presidential Decree of the Republic of Abkhazia, the following categories of foreign nationals may enter without a visa:

• Foreign nationals entering as part of an organised tour group for no more than 24 hours (excluding Georgian citizens)
• Citizens of the Republic of Belarus and the Republic of Kazakhstan travelling for tourism or business purposes for no more than two weeks

Customs regulations

When entering or exiting the Republic of Abkhazia, please note the following customs rules:

• List of personal goods prohibited from import into or export from the customs territory of the Republic of Abkhazia
• Personal goods that may be transported across the customs border free of customs duties
• Personal goods that may be transported across the customs border subject to customs duties and taxes

Important notice for passengers

Alcoholic beverages may be carried in checked baggage up to a maximum of 5 litres per passenger, in retail packaging only (factory-sealed containers with a manufacturer's label).