The United States and Russia have signed a historic bilateral visa agreement, in order to “facilitate travel and establish stronger ties between Russia and the United States”, according to the US Embassy in Moscow.

Commencing earlier this month, both Russian and US travellers will be eligible to obtain multiple-entry visas valid for a period of three years.

The agreement was established to “benefit the largest segment of travellers in both our countries: business travellers and tourists,” the US Embassy said.

The new visa will ease processing time for travellers from both countries.

As part of the accord, the United States will be reducing visa issuing fees from US$100 to US$20.

“Thanks to the agreement, three-year, multiple-entry visas will become the standard ‘default’ terms for US citizens visiting Russia and Russian citizens visiting the United States,” the US Embassy said.

“No formal invitation will be required to apply for a business or tourism visa, although applicants seeking Russian tourist visas must continue to hold advance lodging reservations and arrangements with a tour operator.”

For Americans in Russia, the agreement lifts previous restrictions limiting stays in Russia to 90 days; they will now be permitted stays of up to six months.