Temporary Residence Permit in an simplified procedure

The President of the Russian Federation signed Decree No. 702 “On Providing Humanitarian Support to Individuals Who Share Traditional Russian Spiritual and Moral Values”, which allows foreign nationals from countries where neoliberal values are promoted at the state level to immigrate to Russia. This decree grants such individuals the opportunity to apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) for a period of three years. Official publication.
The TRP in an expedited procedure allows foreign nationals to settle in a specific region of Russia and work in the region that issued the TRP.

The TRP (Temporary Residence Permit) in an simplified procedure program: Expectations for Resettlers

The TRP in an expedited procedure program is aimed at attracting individuals who seek to make a meaningful contribution to Russian society and gain opportunities for growth and integration. This program reflects mutual commitments between migrants and Russia, where shared values and responsibilities serve as the foundation for residency.

Building a Shared Future

The program is aimed at creating a harmonious environment where migrants and local residents can thrive together. By meeting these expectations, migrants not only integrate successfully but also contribute to the social, cultural, and economic development of their new homeland.

The “TRP in an expedited procedure” program is not just a path to obtaining a residence permit, but also a partnership based on mutual respect and shared goals.

No Quotas

Apply for a temporary residency permit without the need for a local quota.

No Exam needed

No Russian language, history, or law exam required for the temporary residency permit.

Work

With the 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP), you can be employed like a Russian citizen in the region you have chosen, without needing any additional documents or a work permit.

Access to Healthcare

With the 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP), you have access to the Russian public healthcare system (OMS) in your place of residence.

Entrepreneurship

With the 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP), you have the opportunity to establish any type of legal entity and start a business as an entrepreneur.


Step by step

To apply for the Shared Values Residency, (TRP – “РВП”) please follow these steps:
(Note that some requirements answered in the FAQs will be necessary.)

Step 1. Analysis

Evaluate your readiness for relocation by assessing your financial situation, job offers, and your understanding of Russian culture and traditions.

Additionally, keep in mind that you will need to familiarize yourself with different regions in Russia. While the application process itself does not legally require knowledge of Russian, all communication with local authorities will be conducted in Russian. Therefore, consider whether you will need assistance navigating the process. The bureaucratic steps to obtain a residence permit with a work permit are complex in any country, but they can be simplified by using paid services in your native language.

Step 2. Exploring Russia

It is highly recommended to explore Russia and visit different regions to help you determine which area is best suited for your lifestyle. Consider important factors such as schools for your children, the quality of local clinics and healthcare services, and available income opportunities in the region. Keep in mind that the region where you apply for your residence permit will become your official place of residence (and likely your workplace). Changing regions after receiving your TRP (Temporary Residence Permit – РВП) is a complex and time-consuming process, and it may not even be possible while holding this status. Therefore, it is crucial to choose your region carefully before applying.

⚡ℹ️ Recommendation:
Consider using a migration consulting service 🔗, as it is important to be aware of the entire process and timelines from the very beginning.

STEP 3: Apply for VISA

It is important to understand that a residence permit can only be obtained after you apply for the corresponding “Shared Values” visa in your home country to enter Russia. You must contact the local Russian embassy or consulate in your country of citizenship or residence (some countries may require an interview) and obtain a single-entry private visa valid for 3 months. You will need to include a printed letter of support for traditional Russian values with your application.

⚡ℹ️ Be aware that the entire procedure to obtain the visa depends on the local consulates and can take up to 3 months. A personal interview is required at the embassy in one of the countries that can grant the visa (🔗list of countries).

STEP 4: Collect your documents

You will need several documents to prepare your application for the 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP).
Some of these documents must be obtained in your country of citizenship or residence.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 more years and has enough blank pages for the visa, temporary residence permit, and registration (it is recommended to have 4 to 5 blank pages).
You will need to obtain the following documents from your country or countries of citizenship:
– Birth certificate
– Marriage certificate (if applicable)
– Criminal record certificate
If possible, have all these documents apostilled.
Please note:
– The apostille on the criminal record certificate is required for submitting the ideological residence permit application.
– You need an apostilled criminal record certificate for each citizenship you hold.
– The apostille is only valid for 90 days.

⚡ℹ️Recommendation:
Once your registration is completed, it is important to have it verified by your legal service provider to ensure that it has been correctly filled out and that the transcription and translation of your first and last name into Cyrillic are accurate and match the ones on the 3-month private visa with which you entered Russia.

STEP 5: Travel to Russia

Entry into Russia is allowed with the single-entry private visa valid for 3 months, specifically issued for this purpose. You can enter Russia by plane or through any land or sea border that allows entry with this active visa. You will also need insurance that covers your stay in Russia for 3 months (the duration of the visa).
Note that at this stage, and until you obtain permanent residence in Russia (which is the next step, at least one year after receiving the TRP), you will need to pay taxes and customs duties if you bring goods (personal items, cars, etc.) into Russia, at a rate of 4 euros per kilogram.




STEP 6: Register

Upon your arrival in Russia, the law requires that your residence be officially registered with the local authorities within 7 days of your arrival.
The location where you apply and register must be within the region where you plan to apply for and live while your temporary residence permit is being processed, as well as during its validity for up to 3 years.
This means you must have temporary registration at a place where you are authorized to live (either your own property if purchased, or in the case of renting, with the landlord’s consent).
After receiving the 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP), you can change your place of residence, but ONLY within the same legal territorial entity, unless you become a property owner in another legal territorial entity (for example, in a different region).

⚡ℹ️ Landlords in Russia often refuse to rent apartments to foreigners. Be prepared for higher costs or potential challenges in finding accommodation.
⚡ℹ️: Once your registration is completed, it is important to have it verified by your legal service provider to ensure that it has been correctly filled out and that the transcription and translation of your first and last name into Cyrillic are accurate and match the ones on the 3-month private visa with which you entered Russia.

Step 7: Translate the Documents

All previously obtained foreign documents, as well as your passport (all available pages), must be translated into Russian for the application for a 3-year Temporary Residence Permit (RVP), and the translations must be notarized by a Russian notary.

⚡ℹ️ Recommendation: The translations, especially of your first and last name, must strictly match the way they were translated on your initial single-entry, 3-month private visa.
⚡ℹ️ Recommendation: It is advisable to let your legal service provider handle the notarized translations in order to avoid any misinterpretations or errors.

STEP 8: Healthcare Check

To apply for the 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP), you must undergo a local medical examination to obtain a medical certificate.
The test includes a urine test (for drug screening), a blood test (for HIV screening), screening for infectious and respiratory diseases via a chest X-ray, as well as an appointment with a psychiatrist.
Chronic illnesses are not an obstacle. You can bring a translator with you; however, according to local regulations, the translator may not be allowed to be present at all stages of the examination.
The tests are conducted in accredited medical centers and take a few hours, with results available in a few days.




STEP 9: Submission of the application

Submit your application to the local migration office (Ministry of Internal Affairs) responsible, providing all the documents and certificates you have previously collected.
The application must be completed in Russian, and you will need to pay the local fees either with a Russian bank card or by providing payment documents from specific banks, according to the requirements.
The list of documents required is as follows:
– Passport and its notarized translation
– Application form in 2 copies
– Criminal record certificate of the applicant, issued by the competent authority of the country of permanent residence, with an apostille dated no more than 3 months before the application date (also required for children over 14 years old)
– 2 passport-sized photos (35 x 45 mm), in black and white or color, with a clear image of the face without headgear
– Migration card of the applicant
– Medical certificates obtained in Russia at an accredited medical center
– Document confirming permanent residence in one of the 47 non-friendly countries (if no citizenship or citizenship of a different country)
Birth certificate (apostilled for minor children)
– Marriage or divorce certificate, documents or certificates regarding changes in first name, last name, or patronymic, if applicable. These documents may sometimes be issued by embassies of the respective countries in Russia.
– Payment of a fee of 1,920 rubles, which can be paid at any bank or migration center
When applying for the 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP), you do not need to confirm your income.
Your fingerprints will be taken, and a green card or fingerprint card containing your data and fingerprints will be issued to you.
Additionally, a document (the certificate of submission) will be provided to confirm that your application has been submitted.

⚡ℹ️ Please be aware that Russian authorities often do not accept translators everywhere, and each application must be completed in Russian.

Step 10: Waiting to proceed

The waiting period to receive the 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP) in Russia is approximately 4 and a half months. Since your initial single-entry private visa is only valid for 3 months, you can leave Russia when the validity of this visa expires and return once your 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP) is ready. Alternatively, you can stay in Russia after the expiration of your initial private visa and request a special visa extension until you receive your 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP).
In some cases/regions, the certificate of submission acts as a visa, allowing you to stay in the Russian Federation while awaiting the receipt of your 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP).

STEP 11: Receiving the 3-Year Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) and Registration

You can monitor the status of your procedure for obtaining the 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP) online.
When your 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP) is ready, you must go to the local migration office (Ministry of Internal Affairs) where you submitted your application to collect it.
Registration is mandatory within 7 days.
This can be either temporary registration (up to one year) or permanent registration (3 years). In the case of temporary registration, you must re-register every time you leave the country and return. In the case of permanent registration, it is valid for 3 years, regardless of the holder’s entries and exits.

Frequently asked questions

Citizens of which countries can participate in the Shared Value Residency Program?

You must be a citizen of one of the following countries and reside in that country.

Only residents of these countries can apply at these countries for the visa to obtain the residency permit based on Decree No. 702 of the President of the Russian Federation:

🇦🇺 Australia, 🇦🇱 Albania, 🇦🇩 Andorra, 🇧🇸 The Bahamas, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, 🇪🇺 European Union (27 countries: 🇦🇹 Austria, 🇧🇪 Belgium, 🇧🇬 Bulgaria, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇩🇰 Denmark, 🇮🇪 Ireland, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇨🇾 Cyprus, 🇱🇻 Latvia, 🇱🇹 Lithuania, 🇱🇺 Luxembourg, 🇲🇹 Malta, 🇳🇱 Netherlands, 🇵🇱 Poland, 🇵🇹 Portugal, 🇷🇴 Romania, 🇸🇮 Slovenia, 🇫🇮 Finland, 🇫🇷 France, 🇭🇷 Croatia, 🇨🇿 Czech Republic, 🇸🇪 Sweden, 🇪🇪 Estonia), 🇮🇸 Iceland, 🇨🇦 Canada, 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein, 🇫🇲 Micronesia, 🇲🇨 Monaco, 🇳🇿 New Zealand, 🇳🇴 Norway, 🇰🇷 Republic of Korea, 🇸🇲 San Marino, 🇲🇰 North Macedonia, 🇸🇬 Singapore, 🇺🇸 United States of America, 🇹🇼 Taiwan, 🇲🇪 Montenegro, 🇨🇭 Switzerland, 🇯🇵 Japan, 🇺🇦 Ukraine

In which countries can you apply for the necessary entry visa?

Only residents of the following listed countries, and those applying within these countries, are eligible to apply for the visa required to obtain the residency permit, in accordance with Decree No. 702 of the President of the Russian Federation:

🇦🇺 Australia, 🇦🇱 Albania, 🇦🇩 Andorra, 🇧🇸 The Bahamas, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, 🇪🇺 European Union (27 countries: 🇦🇹 Austria, 🇧🇪 Belgium, 🇧🇬 Bulgaria, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇩🇰 Denmark, 🇮🇪 Ireland, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇨🇾 Cyprus, 🇱🇻 Latvia, 🇱🇹 Lithuania, 🇱🇺 Luxembourg, 🇲🇹 Malta, 🇳🇱 Netherlands, 🇵🇱 Poland, 🇵🇹 Portugal, 🇷🇴 Romania, 🇸🇮 Slovenia, 🇫🇮 Finland, 🇫🇷 France, 🇭🇷 Croatia, 🇨🇿 Czech Republic, 🇸🇪 Sweden, 🇪🇪 Estonia), 🇮🇸 Iceland, 🇨🇦 Canada, 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein, 🇫🇲 Micronesia, 🇲🇨 Monaco, 🇳🇿 New Zealand, 🇳🇴 Norway, 🇰🇷 Republic of Korea, 🇸🇲 San Marino, 🇲🇰 North Macedonia, 🇸🇬 Singapore, 🇺🇸 United States of America, 🇹🇼 Taiwan, 🇲🇪 Montenegro, 🇨🇭 Switzerland, 🇯🇵 Japan, 🇺🇦 Ukraine

Applications from other countries are not permitted.

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.

How to Get a SIM Card in Russia?

Here’s the step-by-step process:

  • Have your passport translated into Russian by a notary.
  • Go to a Russian Multifunctional Public Service Center (МФЦ) to obtain your SNILS (Social Insurance Number). The process takes 1 to 5 days, but data registration in the system may take up to 2 weeks.
  • Once the SNILS is registered, return to the Multifunctional Public Service Center (МФЦ) to create an account on the public services portal (Gosuslugi). Install the Gosuslugi app. (1 hour to two days).
  • Go to the bank and complete biometric authentication (learn Russian! 😊).
  • Buy a SIM card (the three main providers are MTS, Beeline, and Megafon).
  • Open a bank account (this takes about 45 minutes).

⚡ℹ️ The SIM card is linked to the phone’s IMEI number.
🔴 A Russian SIM card is always required by banks to open a personal bank account in Russia.

How to Open a Bank Account in a Russian Bank?

The process of opening a bank account in a Russian bank and obtaining a local payment card (MIR) is relatively easy in Russia, at least in the major cities of the country.
You will need:

  • Passport (sometimes a notarized translation, depending on the bank)
  • A Russian phone number (and a smartphone for the bank’s app)
  • Your visa
  • Your registration
  • Migration card (given at the airport)
  • Your tax identification number
  • A valid SNILS number (pension fund identifier)
  • Access to the online government service Gosuslugi
  • Collection of biometric data (facial scan and voice recording).

    Currency notes must:
  • Not be torn
  • Be in good condition
  • Have no writing on them










What happens after 3 years?

The 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP) cannot be extended; instead, you can only apply for permanent residency.
Holders of a 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP) can apply for a permanent residence permit (VNJ) as early as 8 months after receiving the TRP, and no later than 2 years and 8 months, since the processing of the permanent residence application takes about 4 months. This process requires meeting additional conditions, such as proving knowledge of the Russian language. A certificate confirming your knowledge of the Russian language must be provided (the exam is not required for minors or women over 60 and men over 65 years old).
Please note that the entire process takes about 4 and a half months.

⚡ℹ️ After receiving the 3-year temporary residence permit (TRP), you must confirm your income and tax payments in Russia every year. You must also prove that you have not left Russia for more than 6 months and that you have spent at least 183 days in Russia during the previous year. These reports must be submitted annually, without prior request, to the local Department of Internal Affairs.

Administrative or Legal Convictions and Their Consequences

If, as a foreign citizen, you receive more than two administrative fines (including traffic violations) within a year in Russia or commit other offenses, the authorities may annul your residence permit with immediate effect. This means you will lose your status and be required to leave the country.

Therefore, it is important to comply with Russian laws and regulations to avoid losing status, being banned from entry, and other negative consequences (if annulled, you are given 2 weeks to leave the country, and a 5-year entry ban is imposed).

Compulsory Education in Russia

Your children are required to provide proof of education as long as they are minors and have not yet completed the first 8 years of schooling. There is no specific obligation to attend Russian schools, but you must provide evidence of their academic achievements equivalent to the Russian school system. Your children may need to pass an exam to demonstrate their knowledge of Russian in order to be admitted to a state educational institution

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.

For amounts exceeding $100,000, you must provide documents to declare the source of the funds at the customs counter.
Make sure to follow these rules to avoid any potential issues.

Financial support

It is important to understand that the Russian government does not provide any financial assistance to immigrants for the residence permit application or during their stay in Russia.
Therefore, you must be able to cover the costs of the residence permit application as well as all expenses associated with your stay in Russia.

Bringing goods to Russia and taxes

Personal belongings and goods brought into Russia must comply with the country’s customs regulations and are subject to applicable duties and taxes at a rate of 4 euros per kilogram.
This includes all items you wish to import, such as vehicles, electronic devices, furniture, and other personal effects.
It is essential to declare these items properly to avoid fines or penalties.
A customs duty exemption may be available under specific circumstances.
This exemption applies to individuals who have obtained permanent residency status (VNJ) 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 or Russian citizenship.
To be eligible for this exemption, the following conditions generally apply:

1. Proof of permanent residency: You must provide documents confirming your status as a permanent resident in Russia. (Holders of temporary residence permits are not eligible.)

2. Ownership of imported goods: The items must have belonged to you and been used prior to the move. This typically requires evidence such as purchase receipts or registration documents (e.g., for cars: the vehicle must have been owned for at least one year).

3. Proper declaration: All goods must be declared to customs upon entry into Russia, and the corresponding forms must be accurately completed.

It is important to note that some restricted or prohibited items may not be eligible for duty-free importation, even under this exemption. Always check with Russian customs authorities or consult an expert for detailed advice on specific items.
Failure to comply with customs regulations may result in delays, fines, or confiscation of goods. Careful planning and adherence to the rules will ensure a smooth process when importing 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, its notarized translation, visa, migration card, and registration with you.

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. After receiving a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP), you must undergo a medical examination once a year.

Can I use my foreign driver’s license in Russia?

As long as you hold a temporary residence permit, a notarized translation of your driver’s license or an international driving permit is sufficient for driving in Russia.

However, there are specific conditions you need to be aware of, depending on your country of origin. These conditions may vary based on international agreements or local regulations regarding the recognition of foreign licenses according to your nationality.

Once you obtain permanent resident status in Russia, you are required to obtain a Russian driver’s license. In many cases, this process involves passing both theoretical and practical exams. It is important to check the specific requirements based on your country of origin and the international procedures for recognizing and converting driver’s licenses.

Is it necessary for a foreign citizen to register at the place of stay in Russia?

Yes, migration registration in Russia is mandatory for the entire duration of your stay. You must register at your place of residence within 7 days of crossing the Russian border.
It is important to note that many property owners in Russia are reluctant to provide registration for foreign tenants, which can lead to foreigners being excluded from many rental offers. This may significantly limit your housing options or increase rental costs.

Therefore, it is crucial to be well-prepared for this process. Be aware that the registration procedure, as stipulated by Russian law for foreign nationals, is strictly enforced. You are required to live at the address where you are registered, as random checks may be conducted by the police.

Violations of registration rules can result in fines and the loss of your residence permit or temporary stay authorization.

Working in Russia

With a 3-year Temporary Residence Permit (RVP), you are authorized to work in 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 allowed with a Permanent Residence Permit (VNJ).

You can apply for permanent residency as early as 8 months after receiving your RVP and no later than 2 years and 8 months from the date it was issued (since the RVP is valid for 3 years), ensuring there is enough time for the application process and the transition between residence permits.

Once you obtain permanent residency, you will have broader work opportunities across Russia, as well as additional benefits such as extended residency rights and easier access to citizenship pathways. Make sure to prepare in advance and gather all necessary documents to ensure a successful application process.

Buying properties in Russia

Yes, the purchase of real estate in Russia is allowed for foreign citizens. However, certain restrictions may apply to specific locations.

These restrictions typically concern border regions or areas of particular importance, which require additional protection, as well as agricultural and arable land.

Additionally, since the beginning of the special military operation, there have been restrictions on the sale of real estate to foreigners with a 3-year temporary residence permit, which are lifted upon obtaining permanent residency.

Finally, some properties do not allow for legal registration. It is important to verify the specific location, the nature of the property, and the legal requirements before proceeding with any real estate purchase in Russia.

What are the rules for residence registration for foreigners in Russia?

In Russia, all foreigners are legally required to register their place of residence within 7 working days of arriving in the country. This registration is known as “migration registration” (which can be temporary or permanent) and is a crucial requirement for anyone staying in Russia for more than 7 days, regardless of the type of visa they hold.

This “registration” has its roots in Russian history, dating back to the Russian Empire, and the system aimed to maintain social order and address the state’s economic needs by ensuring that the workforce remained where it was needed. During the Soviet era, registration became a tool to regulate internal migration and prevent uncontrolled rural depopulation to cities.
Today, registration remains a mandatory administrative formality, often cumbersome, for foreigners.

Main Rules and Requirements:

Registration Deadline:
Foreigners must register at their place of residence within 7 working days of arriving in Russia. This applies whether you are staying in a hotel, with friends or relatives, or in a rented apartment. Failing to register within this period can result in fines or problems extending your visa or residence permit.

Who can register you:

  • If you are staying in a hotel, the hotel administration is responsible for your registration.
  • If you are staying with friends or relatives, they must assist with the registration. They will need to provide their passport and proof of residence.
  • If you rent an apartment, the landlord is responsible for assisting you with the registration process.

    Required Documents:
  • A duly filled-out registration form (provided by the migration office or the property owner).
  • A copy of your passport, including the visa page (for tourists).
  • A rental agreement or an invitation letter (for non-tourists).
  • A migration card (issued to you upon entering Russia).
  • The passport or registration documents of the person you are staying with (if applicable).

    Duration of Registration:
    The registration is valid for the duration of your visa or the length of your stay in Russia.
    If your visa is extended, you will need to extend your registration as well.
    Registration does not grant the right to work in Russia unless you have the appropriate work permit.

    No Registration = Legal Problems:
    If you fail to register, you risk fines, deportation, or difficulty renewing or extending your visa.
    Without registration, you will not have access to essential services like healthcare or certain government services.
    Additionally, failing to have valid registration can complicate your ability to apply for a residence permit or other official documents in Russia.

    When Do You Need to Re-register?
  • If you change address (move to a new place), you must re-register at your new location within 7 days. The new registration replaces the previous one.
  • If your visa or permit is extended, you will need to re-register to ensure the new registration covers the duration of your new visa.

    Important Note:
    The registration process must be completed while your visa or residence permit is valid. If your visa expires and you do not have valid registration, you will face serious legal consequences. Even if you are awaiting a visa extension or other immigration decisions, you must maintain valid registration to avoid penalties.

    Conclusion:
    Registration is a fundamental procedure for a foreigner staying in Russia. Make sure to complete the registration process within the time required by law and keep it updated to avoid any problems or legal penalties. It’s also important to note that registering your place of residence does not guarantee the right to stay in Russia—your right to remain in Russia is governed by the conditions of your visa or residence permit.

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
A medical examination must be conducted annually.

5. Travel and Re-Entry Rules
If you plan to temporarily leave Russia, you must ensure that your residence permit remains valid and comply with the requirements for re-entry. Notify the local migration office if your absence exceeds a certain period, as prolonged departures may affect your residency status. You must confirm that you have not been outside of Russia for more than 6 months and that you spend at least 183 days in Russia each calendar year (a declaration must be submitted every year).

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.  

6. What does a Temporary Residence Permit (RVP) entitle you to?

  • Live and work in Russia for 3 years.
  • Enter and leave the country as many times as you wish without a visa.
  • Work under an employment contract in the region where the RVP was issued.
  • Use the Russian mandatory health insurance (OMS) at the clinic of your residence.
  • Receive Russian social benefits, including maternity benefits.
  • Open your own business by registering as an individual entrepreneur (IP) or a limited liability company (OOO).
  • Contribute to the Russian pension system.
  • Apply for a residence permit after living in the country for at least 8 months.

7. What does a Temporary Residence Permit (RVP) NOT entitle you to?

  • Leave Russia for more than 183 days, except for reasons of illness, the death of a relative, or professional necessity.
  • Work outside the region where the permit was issued.
  • Work in the public or municipal sectors, or in companies related to public safety.
  • Serve in the military under conscription, including in civilian positions (you can serve on a contract basis).
  • Be a commander of civilian aviation.
  • Be a crew member of a Russian ship or warship.
  • Vote or run for election.
  • Invite relatives to enter the country.
  • Apply for Russian citizenship: you must first obtain a residence permit.
  • Visit restricted zones.

What is an apostille and how do I get one?

An apostille is an official certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document, ensuring its acceptance in countries that are parties to the Hague Convention. It is used to verify the authenticity of documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, and legal documents for international use.

To obtain an apostille, you must submit the document to the relevant government authority in the country where the document was issued. This authority will verify the document’s authenticity and attach the apostille. In many countries, this process is handled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a designated government office.

Which documents to you need for the TRP application?

RVP (TRP – “РВП”) without quota under Decree No. 702

If you are planning to apply for a Temporary Residence Permit for 3 years (RVP) in Russia, it is crucial to properly prepare the necessary documents.

Here is a detailed list of the documents required for your application:

  • Passport and its notarized translation.
  • Application form in 2 copies.
  • Criminal record issued by the relevant authority from your country of permanent residence, with an apostille, dated no more than 3 months before the application date (also required for children over 14 years of age).
  • 2 photographs of 35 x 45 mm, in black and white or color, with a clear image of the face without headgear.
  • Migration card of the applicant.
  • Medical certificates obtained in Russia from an accredited medical center.
  • Document confirming permanent residence in one of the 47 “unfriendly” countries (if you have no citizenship or have citizenship from another country).
  • Birth certificate (apostilled for minor children).
  • Marriage or divorce certificate, documents or certificates regarding name, surname, or patronymic changes, if applicable. These documents may sometimes be issued by embassies in Russia.
  • Payment of a fee of 1920 rubles, payable at any bank or migration centers.

    Important notes for document preparation:
  • All the listed documents must be submitted in photocopy form, along with the originals.
  • Documents in a language other than Russian submitted with the application must be translated into Russian.
  • The accuracy of the translation or the authenticity of the translator’s signature must be certified by a notary (= notarized translation).
  • Documents issued by the competent authority of a foreign country must be either legalized or apostilled if these documents are not recognized in the Russian Federation under international agreements.

    All official documents in foreign languages from countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention must be prepared in three steps:

    1. Certification (legalization) with an apostille stamp.
    2. Translation of the original document and the apostille stamp into Russian.
    3. Notarization of the accuracy of the translation in Russian at the Russian consulate or certification of the translator’s signature by a notary in Russia.

How much time do we have between receiving the RVP and the new registration?

Once you receive the RVP (Temporary Residence Permit for Russia), you must register your new status at your place of residence within 7 days.

Still have more questions?

Regular questions may arise while preparing to move to Russia, and we’re happy to share the answers with you.
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.
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