What is a Russian Work permit?

Employees must obtain an invitation from a Russian company to apply for a work visa. Required documents typically include:

• A work visa invitation letter from the employer.
• An employment letter outlining the job role and responsibilities.
• A valid passport.
• A completed work visa application form.
• Two passport-sized photos.
• Proof of health insurance from a Russian provider.
• An HIV test certificate (mandatory for work and student visa applicants).

All documents must now be submitted via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs electronic platform.

• Secure a work visa invitation from your employer.
• Complete the application form on the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
• Gather required documents, such as your passport and employment contract.
• Submit the documents to a Russian consulate and pay the applicable visa fees.

Processing a Russian work visa usually takes 10-20 days, depending on the profession and visa type. For urgent cases approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the process can be expedited to 3 days.

Common work permit scams in Russia include:

• Fake Job Offers – Fraudulent companies offering jobs that do not exist, asking for upfront payments for work permits or visas.
• Fake Work Permits – Scammers provide counterfeit or invalid work permits and visas, often leading to deportation or legal issues.
• Excessive Fees – Some fraudsters charge inflated fees for processing work permits, which are much higher than legitimate costs.
• Non-Refundable Deposits – Scammers may ask for a deposit to initiate the work permit process and disappear once the money is paid.
• Unregistered Employers – Scammers may pose as employers who do not register their employees with the government, putting workers at risk of being caught working illegally.

To avoid these scams, always verify job offers, work permits, and employers through official channels.

Here are some tips for a smooth Russian work permit process:

• Start early: Begin the process well ahead of your planned arrival.
• Get an offer letter: Submit a job offer letter with details on your role, contract, and salary.
• Be an HQS: It is easier if you qualify as a Highly Qualified Specialist (earning over 167,000 rubles per month).
• Make copies: Keep photocopies of your passport, visa, and migration card.
• Register on arrival: Register your visa with the Federal Migration Service within seven days of arrival.

Our verification service safeguards you from scams by confirming your permit validity through official channels. Here is how it works:

• Document Submission: Upload your work permit and supporting documents.
• Authenticity Check: We verify your permit through official databases and government partnerships.
• Results: Within 3–5 business days, you will receive a detailed report confirming the validity of the permit or pointing out any discrepancies.

• Processing Time: 3–5 business days, with expedited options for urgent cases
• High Success Rate
• Confidentiality
• Expert Support
• Receive detailed reports