Business & Startups
Business Owners and Startups Immigration Programs to Russia
Russia offers attractive opportunities for business owners and startups looking to establish or expand their operations. These programs are designed to encourage foreign entrepreneurs to contribute to the country’s economic development, providing support and incentives to foster innovation and create jobs.
Key Features of the Business Immigration Program
1. Ease of Establishment:
2. Eligibility Requirements:
- A detailed business plan demonstrating the project’s economic or social impact.
- Sufficient financial resources to support the business operations.
- Registration of a legal entity in Russia (if applicable).
3. Residency and Work Benefits:
- Fast-track pathways to obtain residence permits for business owners and their families.
- Permission to hire both local and foreign employees.
- Access to permanent residency after fulfilling specific conditions.
4. Government Incentives:
Industries and Opportunities
- Technology and Innovation: Software development, IT startups, and AI solutions.
- Manufacturing: Establishing production facilities for goods in demand domestically or for export.
- Agriculture: Investments in modern farming techniques and food production.
How to Apply
- Develop a business plan tailored to the Russian market.
- Register your company or branch in Russia through local authorities.
- Apply for a business visa or residence permit, including all necessary documentation.
- Begin operations and take advantage of government support programs for business owners.
Why Russia?
Whether you’re an established business owner or a startup founder, Russia provides the tools and support to help your venture succeed. Explore the possibilities today!
No Quotas
No Exam needed
Work
Access to Healthcare
Entrepreneurship
Step by step
To apply for the Shared Values Residency, please follow these steps:
Evaluate your readiness for relocation by considering your financial situation, job offers and your familiarity with Russian culture and traditions.
Explore Russia and travel to different regions of Russia to help you decide which area suits you best for living.
It is important to understand that this residency permit can only be obtained if you first apply for the appropriate “Shared Value Visa” in your home country to enter Russia.
You will need several documents to prove your identity, origin, and good character. Foreign documents must be authenticated with apostilles.
Entry into Russia takes place using the visa issued specifically for this purpose.
Your residence must be officially registered with local authorities during your stay in Russia.
Foreign documents must be translated and their translations notarized.
Participate in the local healthcare check to obtain your health certificate.
Apply to the local migration department at the appropriate office.
The waiting time to receive and be granted TRP status in Russia is approximately 4 months.
Frequently asked questions
Applying as a whole family
Each individual must submit their own application for a residence permit. However, minor children can be represented by their parents. Separate application forms must be completed and submitted for each person, including children. These forms will be processed together with the parents’ applications to ensure an efficient procedure.
What happenS after 3 years?
Immigrants can apply for a permanent residence permit no earlier than 8 months after receiving their temporary residence permit or before its 3-year validity expires. This process requires meeting additional criteria, such as proof of language proficiency.
Bringing money to Russia
While there are no restrictions on bringing money into Russia in various forms, certain rules must be followed:
– If the amount exceeds $10,000, you are required to declare it at the customs declaration desk.
– For amounts over $100,000, you must also provide documentation to declare the source of the funds at the customs desk.
Make sure to comply with these regulations to avoid any issues.
Financial support
It is important to understand that the Russian government does not provide any direct financial assistance to immigrants for applying for a residence permit or during their stay in Russia. Therefore, you must be able to cover the costs of applying for a residence permit as well as any expenses related to your stay in Russia independently.
When applying for a residence permit, you may be required to provide proof of income sources or evidence of sufficient financial assets. Additionally, individuals residing in Russia with a temporary residence permit are required to annually demonstrate that their income exceeds the minimum subsistence level.
Bringing goods to Russia and taxes
Goods and personal belongings brought into Russia must adhere to the country’s customs regulations and are subject to applicable duties and fees. This includes all items you wish to import, such as vehicles, electronics, furniture, and other personal effects. It is essential to declare these items properly to avoid fines or penalties.
An exemption from paying customs duties is available under specific circumstances. This exemption applies to individuals who have obtained permanent residence status and allows them to import personal belongings duty-free. However, this benefit is limited to a maximum period of 18 months following the acquisition of permanent residency.
To qualify for this exemption, the following conditions typically apply:
1. Proof of Permanent Residency: You must provide documentation confirming your permanent residence status in Russia. (Temporary residence holders are not able to do so)
2. Ownership of Imported Goods: Items must have been owned and used by you before the move, typically requiring proof such as purchase receipts or registration documents (e.g., for vehicles).
3. Proper Declaration: All goods must be declared at customs upon entry into Russia, and the appropriate forms must be completed accurately.
It is important to note that certain restricted or prohibited items may not qualify for duty-free import, even under the exemption. Always check with Russian customs authorities or consult an expert for detailed guidance on specific items.
Failure to comply with customs regulations can result in delays, fines, or confiscation of goods. Proper planning and adherence to the rules will ensure a smooth process when bringing your belongings into Russia.
Health Examination Requirement for Immigrants to Russia
As part of the immigration process, all individuals seeking temporary or permanent residency in Russia are required to undergo a health examination. This mandatory procedure ensures public safety and helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases within the country.
What Does the Health Examination Include?
The health examination typically covers the following:
1. Screening for Infectious Diseases:
– Tuberculosis (via chest X-ray or Mantoux test)
– HIV/AIDS testing
– Hepatitis B and C
– Other infectious diseases as mandated by Russian law
2. Drug Testing:
Applicants are tested for the presence of illegal substances to ensure compliance with national drug laws.
3. General Medical Check-up:
This includes a review of overall physical and mental health to determine fitness for living and working in Russia.
How to Complete the Health Examination
1. Authorized Clinics:
The health check must be conducted at a clinic or medical facility authorized by Russian immigration authorities.
2. Required Documents:
Bring your passport, visa (if applicable), and any relevant medical history to the examination.
3. Certificate Issuance:
After completing the health check, you will receive a medical certificate confirming your fitness, which must be submitted with your residency application.
Frequency and Updates
Health examinations are usually required for:
– Initial residency applications
– Renewals or updates to your residency status
Why Is the Health Examination Important?
The health test is a critical step in safeguarding public health and ensuring that immigrants can contribute positively to Russian society. It also protects individuals by identifying and addressing potential health issues early.
By completing this process, you are taking an essential step toward building a successful life in Russia. Ensure you schedule your examination promptly to avoid delays in your application process.
Registration at the place of living
Registration at a place of residence in Russia is mandatory for the entire duration of your stay. This registration must be completed within 7 days of crossing the Russian border. Please note that many landlords may be unwilling to register foreign tenants, so be mindful when searching for rental options on the market. If you own property in Russia, you can, of course, handle the registration yourself.
Working in Russia
With a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP), you are allowed to work within the region where your permit was issued and where you are officially registered to reside. It is important to note that working in other regions of Russia is only permitted if you hold a Permanent Residence Permit (PRP).
You can apply for a PRP no earlier than 8 months after receiving your TRP and no later than before the 3-year validity of the TRP expires. This timeline ensures sufficient time for processing and transition between permits.
To apply for a Permanent Residence Permit, you must meet specific requirements, including successfully passing a Russian language proficiency test. This test evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in Russian, an essential skill for integration into the country.
By obtaining a PRP, you gain broader work opportunities across all regions of Russia and additional benefits such as extended residency rights and easier access to citizenship pathways. Make sure to prepare in advance and gather the required documentation to ensure a smooth application process.
Buying properties in Russia
The purchase of real estate in Russia is permitted for foreign citizens. However, there are restrictions that may apply to certain locations designated by a decree of the President of the Russian Federation. These restrictions typically concern border regions or areas of special significance that require additional protection.
Annual Requirements for Temporary Residence Permit Holders in Russia
If you hold a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) in Russia, valid for 3 years, you are required to fulfill specific annual obligations to maintain your residency status. These requirements are designed to ensure compliance with Russian laws and to demonstrate your continued eligibility for the permit.
1. Income Declaration
Each year, TRP holders must provide proof of income that meets or exceeds the minimum subsistence level set for the region where they reside. Accepted forms of income proof include:
– Employment income (pay stubs, employment contract)
– Business income (for entrepreneurs)
– Pensions, scholarships, or other legal sources of income
Failure to provide this documentation may result in penalties or the revocation of your TRP.
2. Notification of Residency
You are required to notify the local migration authorities annually of your residency status. This involves submitting documents confirming your place of residence, such as a rental agreement, property ownership documents, or confirmation from your registered address.
3. Compliance with Russian Laws
TRP holders must comply with all local laws and regulations. Any legal violations, including criminal activities or failure to adhere to migration rules, can lead to the cancellation of the permit.
4. Health Examination Updates (if applicable)
In some cases, authorities may request an updated health examination to ensure continued compliance with public health requirements.
5. Travel and Re-Entry Rules
If you plan to leave Russia temporarily, you must ensure that your TRP remains valid and adhere to re-entry requirements. Notify the local migration office if your travel exceeds a specific duration, as extended absences can affect your residency status.
Why Are These Requirements Important?
Meeting these annual requirements ensures that you remain in good standing with the migration authorities. Failing to comply could lead to penalties, fines, or even the cancellation of your TRP.
Staying organized and proactive about these obligations will help you maintain your residency smoothly and avoid unnecessary complications. For assistance, consult local migration services or legal advisors.
Still have more questions?
It is important to understand that while we provide answers and guidance, many cases require a closer examination of individual circumstances. Therefore, we recommend consulting qualified lawyers or trained professionals with the necessary expertise. Official sources of information can be obtained from the relevant authorities.
If you have specific questions or need help finding the right resources, feel free to share more details, and we’ll do our best to assist you.