Intermark report: how to obtain a work permit in Russia

As per the general rule, foreign nationals need a work permit to work in Russia. Normally, when applying for a permit in Russia employers will sponsor the foreign national.There are two general requirements to be met for employment in Russia – local labour contract and payroll under it. The terms for obtaining work permits differ depending on the type of processing – options include the ‘standard’ procedure and Highly Qualified Specialist (HQS) procedure. The HQS option is easier and faster to obtain than the standard one, it is the ideal solution if the salary requirement is met.

Standard work permit

Special Requirements

To hire foreign nationals an employer needs to have an approved quota, which is employer, region of work, employee’s position and employee’s nationality specific. The quota is obtained a year before applying for a work permit.

Timeframe

Work permit arrangements take a minimum of four to five months to complete.

Permissive Documents

The work permit and multiple-entry work visa are valid for up to one year.

Territory of Validity

Work permits are only valid for one Russian region each.

Registration

Must take place within seven business days of arrival.

Other terms

Medical certificates, a certificate of proficiency in the Russian language, Russian history and basic Russian legislation are required from a candidate for a work permit obtainment; spouses and children under 18 years of age are eligible for the ‘dependant’ visa arrangements.

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Related immigration articles:

• Intermark report: Bans on entering Belarus may apply to Russia
• Visa-free access continues to increase globally
• Migration department in Moscow suspends new work permit

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Highly qualified specialist work permit

Special Requirements

A quota is not required with special requirements. A foreign employee should have an official monthly income (local salary), of no less than 167 000 RUB (typical rule).

Timeframe

The work permit application is processed within 14 business days at the immigration authorities in Russia.

Permissive Documents

The work permit and multiple-entry work visa can be valid for up to three years (with possibility of prolongation for another 3 years each time unlimitedly within the labour contract validity period).

Territory of Validity

More than one Russian region per individual work permit.

Registration

90-day registration free period upon each arrival in Russia.

Other terms

Employer is responsible for notifying of immigration authorities on meeting HQS salary requirements on a quarterly basis. Extended list of family members who are eligible for accompanying family member status.For more information on immigration in Russia, email the Intermark Immigration Team: immigrations@intermarkrelocation.ruThis news alert was prepared by Intermark Relocation Services the immigration and relocations service provider.

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For the latest mobility and HR news in the Winter issue of our magazine 

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