Work Visa to Russia — Requirements and Application

A work visa is required for foreign citizens planning to be employed in Russia. It is issued based on a work permit and an invitation from the employer.

Prerequisites: the employer must obtain a work permit for the foreign worker through the migration office. This process takes 1–3 months.

Required documents: passport, work invitation (from the employer via MVD), completed application form, photo, medical certificates (HIV test, drug test, infectious diseases).

Validity: issued for the duration of the work permit, typically 1 year. Can be renewed without leaving Russia if the employer extends the work permit.

Highly Qualified Specialists (HQS): simplified process for workers earning 167,000+ rubles/month. Visa issued for up to 3 years, no quota restrictions.

Important: work visa holders can only work for the employer specified in the invitation. Changing employers requires a new work permit and visa.