Highly Qualified Specialists
Highly Qualified Specialists Program for Immigration to Russia
Russia’s Highly Qyalified Specialists program is designed to attract talented professionals from around the world, offering an opportunity to live and work in one of the most dynamic and culturally rich countries. This program focus on individuals with expertise in specific fields, addressing Russia’s economic and technological needs while fostering international collaboration.
Key Features of the HQS Program
1. Fast-Track Immigration Process:
The HQS program provides an expedited process for obtaining work permits and permanent residence permits, enabling professionals to quickly integrate into Russia’s workforce.
2. Eligibility Requirements:
- Proven expertise in a highly skilled profession, such as IT, engineering, healthcare, or academia.
- Employment contract or offer from a Russian employer.
- Salary thresholds that meet program criteria (often higher than average national wages).
3. Work and Residency Benefits:
- Permission to work in Russia without quotas or additional approvals.
- The ability to bring immediate family members to Russia.
- Access to permanent residency pathways after meeting specific criteria.
4. Government Support:
Russia provides incentives for HQS participants, including tax benefits and support for relocation, ensuring a smooth transition for professionals and their families.
Industries in Demand
The HQS program targets industries where skilled labor is needed most, including:
- Information Technology (IT): Software development, cybersecurity, AI specialists.
- Engineering: Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering professionals.
- Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, and medical researchers.
- Science and Academia: Researchers, professors, and scientists in various disciplines.
How to Apply
- Secure a job offer from a Russian employer eligible to hire under the HQS program.
- Gather required documents, including proof of qualifications and employment contracts.
- Submit your application through the relevant Russian consulate or immigration office.
Why Choose Russia?
Russia offers a unique combination of professional opportunities and cultural experiences. With a growing demand for skilled labor and government-backed support for immigrants, the HQS program makes it easier than ever to start a new chapter in Russia.
Discover how the Highly Qualified Specialists program can open doors to a successful and fulfilling career in Russia!
No Quotas
Apply for a temporary residence permit without the need for a local quota.
No Exam needed
No Russian language, history, or law exam required.
Work
Access to Healthcare
Receive medical services based on your place of residence.
Permanent Residence Permit
Opportunity to receive a permanent redicence permission granted from the start.
Step by step
To apply for a PRP for 3 years based on the HQS program with a work visa, follow these steps:
You have a confirmed working contract with the employer which includes a minimum vage for more than 250.000 Rubles net. The further steps must be handled by your employer. You can already care about the required documents.
Your employer in Russia must apply to the Ministry of Internal Affairs for an invitation to hire you as an employee. This process may take up to one month. The employer must also submit a contract that includes a minimum duration of one year and a net monthly salary of at least 250,000 rubles.
Once the Ministry of Internal Affairs approves the request, your employer will send you the official invitation.
Apply for a work visa at the Russian embassy in your home country and submit the invitation from your employer. You will need to provide various documents for the visa application, which the embassy will inform you about.
After approximately 1-2 weeks, you will receive your work visa, which will be attached to your passport.
With your work visa, you can cross the Russian border and enter the country.
You must register at the place of stay within 7 days after arrival. This registration will be valid for the duration of your employment contract, but no longer than 3 years.
Once your registration is completed, you can start working with your employer.
Your employer may issue a certificate confirming that you qualify for the Highly Qualified Specialist (HQS) program.
To apply for a permanent residence permit for 3 years, you will need to submit the following required documents:
– Health check certification
– Police clearance certificate (no older than 3 months)
– Registration certificate from your residence abroad
– Birth certificate
– Any civil status change documents with apostille
– Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months
– Additionally, all foreign documents must be translated into Russian with an apostille and notarized
The waiting period is about 4 months. During this time, you are not allowed to leave Russia and must continue fulfilling your active employment contract.
Once you receive the permanent residence permit for 3 years, you can import goods from abroad duty-free and obtain the appropriate visa for travel in your passport.
After 24 months (since you have received the HQS permanent residence permit), you can apply for a change and conversion of your HQS permanent residence permit to an ordinary permanent residence permit. By this time, you must have provided annual proof that you have received income from your employment contract and paid taxes on it.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply for a work visa to Russia?
To apply for a work visa, your employer in Russia must first apply to the Ministry of Internal Affairs for an invitation to hire you. Once your employer receives approval, they will send you an invitation, which you can use to apply for a work visa at the Russian embassy or consulate in your country. You will need to provide the invitation and other required documents, which the Russian representation will inform you about.
What documents do I need to apply for a work visa to Russia?
To apply for a work visa, you will need to provide:
– The invitation from your employer in Russia
– Your passport
– Additional documents specified by the Russian representation in your country (the representation will inform you about the specific required documents).
How long does it take to receive a work visa?
After applying for the work visa, you will typically receive it within 1-2 weeks, and it will be attached to your passport.
Can I enter Russia with a work visa?
Yes, with the work visa, you can enter Russia and cross the Russian border legally.
How can I register in Russia?
Upon arrival in Russia, you must register within 7 days. The registration will be valid for the duration of the employment contract, but not for more than 3 years.
Can I start working immediately after registering?
Yes, once your registration is completed, you can start working with your employer.
What is the HQS program, and how does it affect my permanent residence permit?
The HQS (Highly Qualified Specialist) program allows qualified foreign workers to obtain special residency rights. Once your employer confirms that you qualify for this program, you can apply for a permanent residence permit. The employer will issue a certificate confirming your eligibility for the HQS program.
What documents do I need to apply for a permanent residence permit for 3 years in Russia?
To apply for a permanent residence permit in Russia, you need to provide the following documents:
- Medical examination certificate
- Criminal record certificate (no older than 3 months)
- Certificate of registration at the place of residence abroad
- Birth certificate
- Documents on changes in civil status with an apostille
- Passport, valid for at least 6 months
All foreign documents must be translated into Russian with an apostille and notarized.
How long does it take to receive a permanent residence permit in Russia?
The processing time for obtaining a permanent residence permit is approximately 4 months. During this time, you are not allowed to leave Russia, and you must continue fulfilling your employment contract.
Can I import goods duty-free after receiving a permanent residence permit?
Yes, after receiving the HQS permanent residence permit, you can import goods from abroad duty-free and also obtain the appropriate visa for travel in your passport.
What happens if I lose my job while holding a work visa or permanent residence permit?
If you lose your job, you must find a new employment contract within 2 weeks. If you are unable to provide a new employment contract under the same conditions, you will be required to leave Russia.
Can I apply for permanent residence permit in Russia?
Yes, after 24 months of holding the HQS permanent residence permit, you can apply for a permanent residence permit. However, you will need to provide annual proof that you have received income from your employment contract and have paid taxes on it.
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.