A vital part of any business’ expansion operation into Russia is likely to be bringing some of their valued and experienced employees to assist with the setup and management. In order to do this, every employee needs a Russian work visa.
While it is definitely possible to get Russian work visas for your employees, the process can be complicated and time-consuming. The language barrier, administrative differences, different types of visas, and long wait times can all lead to expensive and frustrating delays.
At Horizons, our global expansion experts offer comprehensive Russian visa services, immigration advice, and tailored support, helping foreign organizations of all kinds to expand into Russia along with their experienced employees.
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Requirements for Russia work visas
The exact requirements vary depending on the type of visa needed. However, the following requirements will need to be fulfilled for the vast majority of applicants, regardless of the visa type:
- Completed application forms
- Application fees
- Job offer
- Medical insurance
- Valid passport
- Medical certificate
- Proof of work experience/qualifications
Types of work visas for Russia
There are several options for employees needing to work in Russia. Non-Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) nationals will first need to obtain a residency visa (either a single-entry visa valid for 90 days or a multiple-entry visa), then apply for a work visa. The best options are generally either a standard work visa or a Highly Skilled Specialist visa. The skilled visas are more difficult to obtain, requiring a high-level role (often Director-level), several years of experience, and relatively high earnings.
For CIS nationals, no visa is required to enter Russia, after which they can apply for a work visa via the Russian Directorate for Migration.
How to get a work visa for Russia
Generally, your employees will need to obtain a residency visa and can then start the application process for their work visa. Once this is complete, you can apply for the necessary work permit. You should also provide your employees with an official invitation letter to present when they arrive in Russia.
Your employees will also need to visit a doctor for a health check, proof of which should be submitted with the visa application.
Other considerations for Russia work visas
The Russian visa application process can take several weeks or even months to complete, so you should always start preparing well in advance of needing the visas.
How can Horizons help?
At Horizons, we help employers of all kinds to expand into Russia more effectively, and we’re experts in securing visas for employees and their families. Our Russia work visa consultants offer customized support and outsourcing services to help you through Russia’s work visa process as quickly and simply as possible. We will ensure that you and your employees are totally compliant with Russia’s unique regulations, save you time, and answer any questions you may have about the process.
In addition, we offer extensive outsourcing services covering recruitment, payroll, HR, administration, and more to help your business start trading as quickly and effectively as possible, whether or not you have a registered subsidiary in Russia.
