When U.S. citizens have all of these items, they should contact the Russian Embassy in Washington, D.C., or the consulate in San Francisco. You will probably be required to register each time you visit a new city. This depends on the city, and unfortunately, you will have no way of knowing ahead of time which cities will require it as the rules are constantly being changed with respect to this custom. Similarly, if you do not have at least the name of the city you are visiting on your visa, you may not be allowed to stay at your hotel. When you register, expect to spend a few hours away from your passport while local officials record the information.
Registration is valid for one month.
If you will be staying longer, you may renew your registration twice, for a total of three months. If you intend to stay longer than three months, you must renew your visa. Customs procedures no longer require the tedious practices of the past. You are no longer required to list each and every exchange of money on your declaration, but you MUST fill out a customs declaration when you enter the country. Do NOT misplace your declaration.