Russian senators approve visa-free entry to World Cup FAN ID holders until end of year

The upper house of Russian parliament approved a bill, enabling the FIFA FAN ID holders to enter the country without a visa until the end of 2018. The bill was earlier adopted by the lower chamber, Russian State Duma, after President Vladimir Putin suggested extending the visa-free regime for FIFA World Cup guests until December 31. It was aimed to boost the tourism influx to Russia. Now the bill requires Putin's signature to become a law. Russia hosted the football championship from June 14 to July 15 and apart from tickets everyone was required to gain an accompanying FAN ID for entry to the stadium.