Russia offers 4 visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals. This page compares all available routes side by side with current requirements.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Visa Programme | Min. Income | Savings | Processing | Difficulty | Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Work Visa | N/A | N/A | 28-84d | 5.2/10 | Yes |
| Highly Qualified Specialist Visa | €1,633/mo | N/A | 14-14d | 4.5/10 | Yes |
| Self-Employment Visa | N/A | €2,000 | 28-56d | 5.5/10 | No |
| Russian Investor Residence Permit | €16,333/mo | N/A | 30-30d | 7.0/10 | Yes |
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Get Deep Dive — €19Frequently Asked Questions
How many visa pathways does Russia offer?
Russia offers 4 distinct visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals, including skilled worker, family, investor, and other categories.
What is the easiest visa to get for Russia?
The easiest pathway depends on your profile. Working holiday visas (if available) have the lowest barriers. For professionals, employer-sponsored visas are the most common route.
How long does it take to get permanent residency in Russia?
The path to permanent residency in Russia typically takes 2-5 years depending on the visa category. Some skilled worker pathways offer faster PR routes.
Can I bring my family to Russia?
Most long-term visa categories in Russia allow family reunification for spouses and dependent children, though specific requirements vary by pathway.
Do I need a job offer to move to Russia?
Not all pathways require a job offer. Russia may offer self-employment, investment, digital nomad, or points-based pathways that don't require employer sponsorship.
Related: Russia Guide · Cost of Living · All Countries