Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Moving to Russia as an expatriate is an exciting adventure that requires thorough preparation to adapt to a new lifestyle and understand local cultural subtleties.
Whether you’re drawn by Moscow’s professional opportunities or Saint Petersburg’s historic charm, our guide will provide all essential information for a smooth relocation.
You’ll discover how to navigate the Russian administrative system, find housing that meets your needs, and even some tips for overcoming the language barrier.
Enriched with practical advice and testimonials from established expatriates, this article is your essential resource for successful settlement and fully enjoying everything Russia has to offer.
Preparing Your Departure to Russia
Required Documents for Entry to Russia
- Valid passport (at least 6 months beyond planned return date, with two blank facing pages)
- Mandatory visa for most nationalities, to be requested from consulate or official center before departure
- Starting June 30, 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need to obtain an electronic travel authorization in QR code form, to be requested at least 72 hours before arrival (experimental phase until June 30, 2026)
- Present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours before arrival
- For certain stays (>90 days or professional), provide biometric data upon arrival: fingerprints and photograph
| Entry Type | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Tourism/Business | Passport + Visa |
| Temporary Exemption | Passport + Electronic Authorization (QR) |
| Stay >90 days | Passport + Long-term Visa + Biometrics |
| Professional | Passport + Work Visa + Possible Isolation |
Customs Formalities
Declare all valuable items, amounts exceeding certain thresholds in foreign currency
Prohibition on importing certain food products, animals, or regulated substances
Prescription medications must be accompanied by official translation and medical justification
Recommended/Required Vaccinations
List of recommended vaccines:
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Polio (DTP) vaccine
- Hepatitis A and B
- Tick-borne encephalitis (especially for rural areas between April and October)
- Tuberculosis
No mandatory vaccinations are required by Russian authorities except in specific health situations.
Transportation Options to Russia
Main means:
- Airplane: Direct flights from Paris, Geneva, Brussels, or Frankfurt to Moscow/Saint Petersburg
- Train: From Helsinki or Warsaw via Russian RZD network
- Car/bus: Crossing through land borders with strict control
For all transportation, verify visa validity before boarding.
Language Learning and Cultural Integration
It is highly recommended:
- To learn some essential Russian basics (greetings, polite phrases, numbers, etc.)
- To familiarize yourself with the Cyrillic alphabet
This facilitates all administrative and daily procedures upon your arrival.
Some important local customs:
- Respect punctuality for official appointments.
- Do not automatically smile at strangers on the street.
- Bring a gift when invited to someone’s home.
- Remove shoes when entering someone’s house.
Health/Repatriation Insurance
Subscribe to international health insurance covering:
- Local medical expenses (private care often expensive)
- Medical repatriation in case of accident/serious illness
Verify that your policy also covers COVID risk and any professional activity if applicable.
Temporary/Permanent Housing – Useful Resources
Main resources:
- International platforms like Airbnb for short stays
- Russian real estate portals such as CIAN.ru for long-term rentals
- Facebook/Telegram groups dedicated to French-speaking expatriates in Russia
Request an official certificate from the landlord/host to facilitate your migration registration upon arrival.
Currency Exchange/Financial Tips
Practical tips:
- Prefer exchanging your euros/dollars at official banks rather than private/informal offices.
- Always keep written proof of transactions.
Electronic payments are widely accepted but it’s useful to have cash outside major cities.
Never accept an “under the table” rate nor exchange on the street; high risk of scam or criminal offense.
Political/Social Situation – Special Vigilance
Before any travel/relocation:
- Regularly consult updated official advisories regarding: local security, potential political demonstrations, sensitive border areas.
- Note that during election periods/new international decrees, temporary restrictions may be imposed on foreigners.
- Strictly respect all migration obligations under penalty of fine or even expulsion.
Good to Know:
Before leaving, verify that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your entry date into Russia, and that you have a visa matching your stay duration; also consider subscribing to international health insurance, mandatory for obtaining a Russian visa.
Essential Procedures Upon Arrival
Registration with Local Authorities
Upon arrival in Russia, you must register with local authorities within 7 business days after entering the territory. This procedure is typically done at the Federal Migration Service (GUVM) office or through your host (landlord, hotel).
Documents to provide:
- Passport with visa
- Migration card received at the border
- Registration form completed by the host
- Rental contract or proof of accommodation
Without this registration, you risk a fine and may encounter difficulties for any subsequent administrative procedures.
Opening a Bank Account in Russia
To open a bank account, visit a branch with the following documents:
- Passport (with certified translation if necessary)
- Visa and migration card
- Proof of registration at place of residence
The best banks for expatriates are often:
- Sberbank
- Tinkoff Bank
- Raiffeisenbank
Some offer services in English and advanced digital interfaces. Prefer those providing dedicated customer support for foreigners.
Obtaining Tax Identification Number (ИНН/INN)
The INN number is essential for any tax activity: salaried work, business creation, or tax declaration.
Procedure:
- Submit an application at the local Federal Tax Service office or via their online portal.
- Provide: passport + migration card + temporary/permanent residence permit + proof of address.
The INN is issued within a few days without special fees for individuals.
This number facilitates access to certain administrative services and determines your tax status: it notably allows declaration of Russian and foreign income if you are a tax resident.
Choosing and Subscribing to Health Insurance
Available options for expatriates:
- Russian compulsory medical insurance (“ОМС”) accessible to holders of temporary/permanent permits.
- International private insurance adapted to expatriates wanting extensive coverage upon arrival.
- AXA
- Allianz Care
- Cigna Global
Tips:
Prefer contracts covering outpatient/hospital care, medical repatriation, civil liability, and multilingual assistance. Verify that the contract is recognized by local medical establishments.
Useful Resources & Specialized Contacts
Indicative list:
- “My Documents” centers (« Мои документы »), multi-service administrative counters present in all major cities.
- Specialized agencies like Intermark Relocation or Move One that assist with administrative/logistical setup.
- Facebook/Telegram groups: “Expats in Moscow”, “Expats in Russia” enabling mutual aid among newcomers.
| Procedure | Location/Formality | Required Documents | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Registration | GUVM Office / Host | Passport, visa, migration card | 7 business days |
| Bank Account | Chosen Bank | Passport (+translation), visa/registration, proof of housing | Immediate/within 48h |
| INN Number | Tax Office / FTS Portal | Passport/registration, migration card | Few days |
For each important step, keep paper/scanned copies of provided documents as well as all official receipts obtained during your administrative procedures.
Good to Know:
Ensure you register your arrival within seven days with local authorities, bringing your passport, visa, and migration card. For opening a bank account, banks like Sberbank or Alfa-Bank are often recommended for expatriates.
Succeeding in Integration into Russian Community
Practical tips for successful integration into the Russian community as an expatriate:
Learning Russian Language
Mastering Russian is essential for integration, accessing employment, and understanding cultural subtleties. It’s advised to start learning before departure and continue on-site.
Recommended resources:
- Mobile apps: Duolingo, Babbel, Memrise (Russian modules)
- Online courses: OpenClassrooms, Coursera (beginner course “Russian for Beginners”)
- Local universities or French Alliances offering intensive courses on-site
Expatriate Clubs and Local Events
Participating in expatriate clubs and events facilitates meeting other foreigners as well as Russians open to intercultural exchanges. This allows:
- Sharing experiences
- Obtaining moral and practical support
- Discovering traditions during national holidays or cultural workshops
Common examples:
- “Internations” clubs in major Russian cities
- Language exchange nights
- Local festivals (Maslenitsa, Orthodox New Year)
Useful Media and Online Platforms
| Platform | Main Usefulness |
|---|---|
| VKontakte (VK) | Local networking, expatriate support groups |
| Telegram | Thematic groups on integration |
| French-speaking/expats communities by city | |
| Meetup | Search for social/cultural activities |
Managing Administrative/Legal Formalities
List of essential tips:
- Prepare all necessary documents before departure (valid passport, visa adapted to professional or family project).
- Officially translate all important papers into Russian.
- Get precise information about the procedure corresponding to your situation: work permit, temporary/permanent residence, marriage, or studies.
- Anticipate sometimes lengthy delays; some procedures take several months.
- If needed, solicit a specialized agency assisting in all these steps.
Respectful and Open Approach to Cultural Differences:
Show curiosity without judgment, discreetly observe before adopting certain social behaviors. Russians are often reserved but place great importance on mutual respect. Adopt a humble attitude towards local customs—for example, not systematically smiling as formal proof of politeness.
Anecdotes/Testimonials
“I joined an international club upon my arrival in Moscow; this allowed me not only to practice Russian but also to build my first local friendships. After a few months participating in traditional holidays with my Russian colleagues—notably Maslenitsa—I felt I was truly accepted into their circle.”
“Administrative formalities were simpler thanks to support received via a Telegram group dedicated to French-speaking expatriates; I found all updated information there as well as reliable contacts to translate my official documents.”
To succeed in integration: actively learn Russian, multiply social interactions via clubs/events, scrupulously respect legal procedures, and adopt an open posture towards cultural differences are essential.
Good to Know:
Learning Russian is crucial for being understood and integrating; platforms like Duolingo offer courses for beginners. Joining expatriate clubs or participating in local events is also very useful for familiarizing yourself with Russian customs and building friendships.
Understanding and respecting Russian regulations regarding visas, work permits, and residence involves several structured steps and depends on the type of stay planned.
Visa Types for Expatriates and Eligibility Criteria
| Visa Type | Main Use | Eligibility Criteria | Duration/Stay | Extension Possible |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Work Visa | Salaried work in Russia | Contract with Russian employer, qualifications, health | 1 year (renewable) | Yes |
| Business Visa | Professional travel | Invitation from Russian company, justification of reasons | 30-90 days | No |
| Tourist Visa | Tourist visits | Hotel reservation, itinerary, travel insurance | 30 days | No |
| E-visa | Tourism/business/cultural | Eligible passport, online application, short stay | 16 to 30 days | No |
| Private Visa | Visiting relatives | Invitation from Russian resident | 90 days | Yes (from 2025) |
Obtaining Process for Main Visas
Work Visa
- The Russian employer must obtain a work permit from migration authorities.
- Required documents:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months after entry)
- ID photo
- Qualification and health certificates (HIV/AIDS test, tuberculosis, leprosy)
- Employer’s invitation letter
- Letter detailing position, location, contract dates
- Payment of fees (example: 15,900 ₽ for state duty)
- Timeframe: Approximately 100 days for entire procedure, renewal to be planned 6 months before expiration.
- Cost: Varies by nationality and region (e.g., 15,900 ₽ + medical fees)
Business Visa
- Invitation from Russian organization or official invitation letter.
- Documents: Passport, photo, insurance, proof of stay.
- Timeframe: Few weeks.
- Cost: From 60 to 150 euros depending on duration.
Tourist Visa
- Proof of accommodation reservation, itinerary, insurance.
- Documents: Passport, photo, application form.
- Timeframe: Approximately 10 business days.
- Cost: Approximately 35 to 70 euros.
E-visa
- Online application for nationals of 64 countries.
- Documents: Digital photo, passport, stay details.
- Timeframe: 4 calendar days.
- Cost: Approximately 50 euros, free for children
Changing visa type is generally not possible in Russia (except for highly qualified specialists), so anticipate visa choice from the start.
Only student, work, and private visas (from 2025) can be extended on-site. Others require leaving Russia to reapply.
In case of doubt, prefer professional assistance to avoid errors that could lead to sanctions or refusal of stay.
Good to Know:
To effectively navigate Russian regulations, it’s crucial to choose the right visa type (work, business, tourism) according to your situation and prepare documents such as passport, invitation letter, and insurance. Timeframes can vary, so plan ahead and consider consulting a specialized lawyer to avoid costly errors and respect registration obligations.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. We encourage you to consult qualified experts before making any investment, real estate, or expatriation decisions. Although we strive to maintain up-to-date and accurate information, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the proposed content. As investment and expatriation involve risks, we disclaim any liability for potential losses or damages arising from the use of this site. Your use of this site confirms your acceptance of these terms and your understanding of the associated risks.
Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
