If you are a Citizen of one of the following countries (including many EU countries), then the Steklov institute will issue a simplified invitation letter. This means that: You do not have to submit a copy of your passport; You will receive an invitation letter faster than in general. The letter looks like this.

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• India
• Italy
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

 Otherwise, you have to apply for a regular visa invitation letter. The letter looks like this.