Residence Permit in Russia

Foreign individuals in Russia can apply for temporary or permanent residence permits, a pathway to Russian citizenship. Amendments in 2015 to the Immigration Law may affect residence permit applicants, and Russian immigration lawyers can offer guidance on these changes.

Eligibility for Russian Residence Permits in 2023

To obtain Russian residence permits, applicants must meet language, history, and legal knowledge requirements with official documents. Some exceptions apply for specific categories of residence permit applicants in Russia.

Exemptions from Language and History Requirements:

• Age-Based Exemption: Applicants below 18 and those above 60 are not required to demonstrate their proficiency in the Russian language or their knowledge of Russia's history.
• Students: Foreign students enrolled in accredited Russian universities or other educational institutions are eligible to obtain temporary residence permits without the need to fulfil language and history requirements.
• Specialised Professionals: Foreign citizens specialising in fields that are in demand by Russian companies may also be exempt from the language and history requirements.
• Family Reunification: Foreign citizens with family members who have ties to the former Soviet Union and wish to return to Russia are granted exemptions from certain application requirements when pursuing residence permits.

How to obtain a Temporary Russian Residence Permit in 2023

Acquiring a temporary residence visa in Russia provides foreign citizens with the same social rights as native Russians. This permit is initially valid for three years but necessitates annual re-validation. The issuance of Russian temporary residence permits is overseen by the Federal Migration Service, and it is crucial to follow the 2023 procedures and requirements.

Eligibility for a Temporary Residence Permit

To be eligible for a temporary residence permit in Russia, foreign citizens must meet specific criteria, which include:

• Russian Birth: The applicant must have been born in Russia.
• Russian Family Ties: Having a Russian family member is a qualifying factor.
• Marriage to a Russian Citizen: Those married to a Russian citizen can apply for this permit.
• Investment Activity in Russia: Foreign investors engaged in business activities in Russia are eligible.
• Enrollment in Russian Military Service: Individuals who have been enrolled in the Russian military service also qualify.

Obtaining an Exit and Re-entry Russian Visa

Foreign citizens holding a temporary Russian residence permit can only leave the country after obtaining an exit and re-entry Russian visa. This requirement is essential for maintaining the permit's validity.

Document Requirements for 2023

For detailed information regarding the documents necessary to apply for a temporary residence permit in 2023, you can consult with our immigration lawyers in Russia.

Streamlined Procedures

Notable changes have been implemented to facilitate the process for foreign nationals seeking residence permits in Russia. These modifications include expedited notifications regarding the application status, whether it has been accepted or rejected, in a significantly shorter time frame compared to previous procedures.

Obtaining Permanent Russian Residence Permits

The permanent residence permit serves as the initial step towards gaining Russian citizenship. It becomes accessible after:

- Obtaining a temporary residence visa and maintaining it for at least two years.

- Apply for a permanent residence permit.

- The permit is valid for a period of five years and can be renewed indefinitely.

- Annual re-validation is required for the permit.

- Holders of the permit are exempt from obtaining additional visas to exit and re-enter the country.

- The permit allows the holder to work in Russia without the need for a separate work permit.

Acquiring an Investor Residence Visa in Russia

This program, also referred to as the business investment visa, offers highly favourable conditions for foreign entrepreneurs seeking Russian residence permits based on their investments. To obtain a Russian residence permit as an investor, it is essential to meet the following requirements:

• Minimum Investment: A minimum required investment is required.
• Specific Industries: Investments must be directed into specified industries, including oil and gas, agriculture, energy, medicine, information technology, and research and innovation.
• Legitimate Source of Funds: The invested funds must have a legitimate source, and evidence of this source is obligatory as per the authorities' requirements.
• Residency Period: Applicants must reside in Russia for at least 90 days before applying for the investor residence permit.

Advantages of the Russian Investor Residence Permit

• You can live and work in Russia indefinitely.
• You can travel freely in and out of Russia without a visa.
• You can own property in Russia.
• You can access social benefits, such as healthcare and education.

Required Documents for Obtaining a Russian Residence Permit

Irrespective of the specific type of residence permit that a foreign citizen intends to pursue in Russia, the following documents must be provided to the immigration authorities:

• Application Form: A duly completed application form.
• Passport Photos: Four passport-sized photographs of the applicant.
• Valid Passport: The applicant's valid passport.
• Proof of Income: Submission of a bank statement as evidence of financial stability.
• Health Certificate: A health certificate demonstrating that the applicant is free from any contagious diseases.

Foreign citizens applying for permanent residency in Russia need a temporary residence permit and must include their children's birth certificates. A law firm in Russia can offer detailed information on application requirements for family members and 2023 formalities.

Immigrating to Russia: Pathways and Visa Types

Foreigners considering immigration to Russia often opt for employment opportunities with local companies or establishing their businesses, with labour migration being a common route. Special circumstances like asylum-seeking are also options for immigration to Russia.

The Federation offers different visa categories, which include:

• Student Visas: For individuals pursuing education in Russia.
• Visas for Teachers: Designed for educators.
• Visas for Diplomats and Representatives of International Organizations: Tailored for diplomatic and international roles.
• Temporary Visas: Applicable to foreign employees in various sectors.
• Permanent Residence Permits: The ultimate goal for long-term settlement.

As per Immigration Law, obtaining permanent residency necessitates an initial application for a temporary residence permit. Following two years of residence in Russia, foreign citizens become eligible for a permanent residence permit.

Rights and Responsibilities of a Temporary Residence Permit in Russia

Securing temporary residence in Russia is an option for foreigners seeking relocation to the country. Acquiring a temporary residence permit in Russia comes with a set of both rights and responsibilities, which encompass the following:

• Mandatory Registration: Upon obtaining a temporary residence permit in Russia, individuals must register with local or regional authorities within a maximum of 7 days.
• Financial Disclosure: Holders of temporary residence permits are required to provide a statement detailing their source of income, earnings over the past year, and proof of tax payments.
• Employment Privileges: Foreign citizens with a temporary residence permit enjoy the privilege of working in Russia without the necessity of a separate work permit.
• Travel Permissions: Holders of temporary residence permits are permitted to travel outside the Russian Federation, subject to the laws in effect, with a restriction of once every 6 months.
• Multiple-Entry Visas: While their temporary residence permit is valid, foreign citizens in Russia can also obtain multiple-entry visas for added convenience.

Possible Denial of a Temporary Residence Permit in Russia

Here are some possible grounds for denial of a temporary residence permit in Russia:

• Health concerns: If you have a serious medical condition that could pose a risk to public health, you may be denied a temporary residence permit.
• Financial instability: If you do not have a stable source of income, you may be denied a temporary residence permit.
• National security concerns: If the Russian authorities believe that you pose a threat to national security, you may be denied a temporary residence permit.
• Other reasons: The Russian authorities may also deny a temporary residence permit for other reasons, such as if you have a history of violating Russian law or if you have been deported from Russia in the past.

Here are some tips for avoiding denial of a temporary residence permit in Russia:

• Make sure you meet all of the eligibility requirements: Before you apply for a temporary residence permit, make sure you meet all of the eligibility requirements. You can find a list of the eligibility requirements on the website of the embassy or consulate.
• Submit a complete and accurate application: When you submit your application for a temporary residence permit, make sure that it is complete and accurate. Include all of the required documentation and make sure that all of the information on your application is correct.
• Be prepared to answer questions: At your interview, you will be asked questions about your reasons for wanting to live in Russia and your plans for the future. Be prepared to answer these questions honestly and thoughtfully.
• Seek professional help: If you are unsure about any part of the application process, you may want to consider getting professional help from an immigration attorney.

Relocating a Company to Russia

For foreign investors seeking to transfer their company to Russia, establishing residency in the country is a prerequisite. The relocation process is relatively straightforward and entails several key steps, including:

• Deregistration in the Home Country: Commence the process by deregistering the company with the relevant authorities in the country of origin.
• Supplier Contracts: Engage in contract negotiations with suppliers in Russia to facilitate a smooth transition.
• Document Preparation: Prepare the necessary documentation outlining the company's relocation, including agreements and the endorsement of individuals in managerial positions.

Simultaneously, the application procedure for residency in Russia can be initiated, extending to the relocation of employees to the country. It is important to highlight that all these intricate procedures can be meticulously examined and managed by our team of experienced lawyers in Russia.

Russia Continues to Attract Foreign Investors

Russia remains a focal point for foreign investors, offering a range of appealing attributes such as a stable business environment, a robust economy (ranking 11th globally), a skilled and multilingual workforce, and streamlined company establishment procedures. Boasting abundant natural resources including oil, gas, and metals, Russia is a leading global exporter with substantial annual trade volumes. 

Here are some key statistics and facts:

• Significant FDI Inflow: In 2020, Russia recorded a total foreign direct investment (FDI) of over billions.
• Notable Greenfield Investments: The same year witnessed a remarkable influx of greenfield investments.
• Key Sectors for Investment: The mining and quarrying sector accounted for the highest share of foreign investments in 2020, approximately 24%. Following closely was the manufacturing industry, representing 21% of the total investments.
• Favourable Business Environment: Russia's business climate made substantial progress, with the 2020 Doing Business report ranking it 28th out of 190 world economies, marking a three-place improvement compared to the previous year. The ranking considered various aspects of business conditions and the overall climate.
• Diverse Foreign Investors: Leading investors in Russia include France, the United States, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Cyprus (contributing over 28% of total investments), and Bermuda (comprising approximately 9% of investments).

Acquiring Russian Citizenship

In accordance with the Immigration Law, foreign citizens residing continuously in Russia for a period of five years become eligible to apply for Russian citizenship. There are several avenues through which Russian citizenship can be obtained:

• Citizenship by Birth: Russian citizenship is granted to individuals by birth.
• Citizenship through Marriage: Marriage to a Russian citizen provides an avenue to acquire Russian citizenship.
• Naturalisation: Foreign individuals can become naturalised citizens of Russia through specific legal processes.
• Citizenship by Registration: Registration in accordance with established procedures can also lead to the acquisition of Russian citizenship.

It's worth noting that the Russian Federation has streamlined the regulations governing the acquisition of citizenship for qualified foreign individuals and investors. However, it is crucial to adhere to the formalities in place for 2023.

FAQS

Do Russian residence permits have an expiration date?

Yes, both temporary and permanent residence permits in Russia have expiration dates, but they can be renewed an unlimited number of times.

How long does it typically take to obtain a temporary residence permit in Russia?

The issuance of a temporary residence permit in Russia usually takes approximately 6 months. For detailed information on residency in Russia, consult with our lawyers.

Can I establish a company in Russia if I possess a residence permit?

Yes, individuals with a residence permit are permitted to start a business in Russia.

Is it possible to work in Russia with a residence permit?

Absolutely, having a temporary or permanent residence permit allows you to work in Russia.

Can I obtain Russian citizenship if I hold a residence permit?

You can obtain Russian citizenship based on a permanent residence permit.