Read this article and learn how to distinguish a real relationship from a scam. The decision of writing this article came up after getting numerous similar questions – “my Russian girlfriend got her UK visa, but she is saying she needs to show 2500 GBP in her account to be allowed into the country”, “I met a Russian lady recently and want to invite her to visit me in the UK. A visa agency told her she needs to show 3000 GBP in her account. Is it true?” No, no and no. Fortunately, this is not true. Amounts vary, but the meaning remains the same. So, what is instead required?

Financial requirements

Financial situation is one of the most important factors, considered by the immigration officers, before a decision on a visa is made. However, there is no any official requirement as to how much money a person must have. The most important is to show a regular, stable and legal income; to show that a person has a job in Russia and this will be his/her tie and liability to come back to the country.

Moreover, if an applicant does not have enough funds for the trip or you want to cover all associated costs, you may act as a sponsor and provide confirmation of your income and your savings.

Quick check-up

Most likely it is a scam, if your friend:

• claims some specific amount of money is required to get a visa
• says that needs to show copies of bank statements with certain amount on the passport control
• says that needs to show some particular amount in cash, when crossing the border

Before transferring the money, consider the following:

• how long you know each other
• can you trust this person
• have you ever met in person
• offer to visit your friend in Russia

Unfortunately, this kind of fraud is quite common. Should you have any concerns or questions, feel free to contact us.

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