Visa Types
Russia Permanent Residency Path
How you can immigrate to Russia, how to protect yourself from Fraud and What to expect after you arrive in Russia.
Key Points for Russia Permanent Residence (PR) Visa >>>
Do you need a visa to travel to Russia?
Yes, Indians need visas to travel to Russia
Russia visa application is made online or offline?
There are two ways to apply for a Russia visa: you can either submit your application online or in person/by post to the Russian visa application center, Embassy, High Commission or Consulate.
Do I need to give biometrics?
Yes, biometrics are required for obtaining a Russian visa.
Is there an interview required to obtain a visa?
Yes, an interview is required for Indian nationals to obtain a Russian visa.
What is the maximum length of stay permitted on a PR visa?
You can live indefinitely on a permanent resident (PR) visa.
What kind of visa will we acquire from Russia?
It will be a physical sticker visa, which will be affixed to a page in your passport.
Current Visa fees: (Updated on 16-10-2023)
| Entries | Visa Processing Time | Consular fee | Service fee | Total fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single entry | 4-20 days | ₹ 6,560 | ₹ 2,200 | ₹ 8,760 |
| Single entry | 1-3 days | ₹ 13,120 | ₹ 2,200 | ₹ 15,320 |
| Double entry | 4-20 days | ₹ 10,496 | ₹ 2,200 | ₹ 12,696 |
| Double entry | 1-3 days | ₹ 20,992 | ₹ 2,200 | ₹ 23,192 |
| Multiple entry | 4-20 days | ₹ 19,680 | ₹ 2,200 | ₹ 21,880 |
| Multiple entry | 1-3 days | ₹ 39,360 | ₹ 2,200 | ₹ 41,560 |
Note:
- Each visa application has a corresponding visa fee, and the amount varies based on the applicant's citizenship, the number of entries, and visa processing time.
- Additionally, there is a Russia Visa Centre fee of 2200 INR (including GST) for each visa application. The Russia Visa Application Centre accepts payments for visa fees, the mandatory centre charge, and optional Value Added Services.
- Payments can be made in cash or by debit/credit card at the centre. It's important to note that all payments made are non-refundable.
Step-by-step guide(In Person)
Let us walk you through the process
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Identify Visa Type:
- The first step is to identify the type of visa you need. There are different types of Russian visas for different purposes, such as tourism, business, study, and work.
- You can find more information about the different types of visas on the website of the Russian embassy in India.
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Fill Online Visa Application Form:
- Once you have identified the type of visa you need, you will need to fill out an online visa application form. The form can be found on the website of the Russian embassy in India. You will need to provide information such as your personal details, travel plans, and financial means.
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Book an Appointment:
- Schedule an appointment at the Russian Visa Application Centre. Some visa types may require you to book an appointment at the Russian Embassy or Consulate.
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Visit a Visa Application Centre:
- Attend the scheduled appointment at the Visa Application Centre or the designated Russian diplomatic mission.
- Submit the required documents, including the application form, passport, photographs, and any supporting documents.
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Track Your Application:
- Utilize the tracking system provided by the Visa Application Centre to monitor the status of your visa application. This helps you stay informed about the progress of your application.
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Collect Your Passport:
- Once the visa processing is complete, collect your passport with the stamped visa from the Visa Application Centre or the Russian Embassy/Consulate, have it delivered by courier.
Step-by-step guide(Apply by post)
Let us walk you through the process
Fill in the online visa application on the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid delays.
Collect the required documents listed on our website for your specific visa type (Tourist, Business, Private, Humanitarian, Student, Work, or Transit).
Head to our payment portal to cover the visa fees. Provide accurate details, including your mobile number, email ID, and address for passport return. Don't forget to attach the payment confirmation to your documents.
Mail your documents to the Russia Visa Centre using a post/courier service. Once processed, your passport will be sent back to the specified address via courier.
DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
When applying for Permanent Residency in Russia, you will generally need to provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. The following checklist covers the most common documents needed:
Personal Documents:
- Passport:
- Original passport with at least six months of validity beyond the intended period of residence.
- Visa and Registration:
- Copies of previous Russian visas and migration cards.
- Proof of continuous legal residence in Russia.
- Birth Certificate:
- Original or notarized copy of your birth certificate.
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable):
- Original or notarized copy of the marriage certificate, translated into Russian if necessary.
- Divorce Certificate (if applicable):
- Original or notarized copy of the divorce certificate, translated into Russian if necessary.
Residential and Financial Documents:
- Proof of Residence:
- Document confirming your legal residence in Russia, such as a rental agreement or property ownership documents.
- Work History:
- Employment history and reference letters from previous employers in Russia.
- Income Proof:
- Bank statements, tax returns, or salary certificates proving your financial stability and ability to support yourself.
Language Proficiency:
- Russian Language Proficiency:
- Certificate or evidence of your proficiency in the Russian language, such as passing the TORFL (Test of Russian as a Foreign Language).
Health and Insurance:
- Medical Certificate:
- A medical certificate confirming that you do not have any contagious diseases. This may be issued by an authorized medical institution.
- Health Insurance:
- Proof of health insurance coverage during your stay in Russia.
Education and Skills:
- Educational Documents:
- Copies of educational certificates and diplomas, translated into Russian if necessary.
- Professional Qualifications:
- Certificates or licenses proving your professional qualifications or skills.
Other Documents:
- Police Clearance Certificate:
- A police clearance certificate from your home country and any other country where you have lived for a significant period in the last three years.
- Military Service Documents (for males aged 18-27):
- Proof of completion of military service or exemption (if applicable).
- Application Form:
- Completed application form for permanent residence.
- Photos:
- Passport-sized photos as per the specified requirements.
- Fee Payment Receipt:
- Proof of payment of the permanent residence application fee.
Note:
- Ensure that all documents are translated into Russian and notarized if required.
- Check with the local immigration authorities for the latest and specific requirements.
- It's advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or the relevant Russian authorities to ensure your application is complete and accurate.
Investment-Based Permanent Residency:
- Proof of significant financial investment, such as government bonds, capital contribution to a Russian company, or donation to a Russian charity.
- Legal documents related to the investment.
- Passport and visa documentation.
- Proof of funds and financial stability.
- Any other documents required by the specific investment program.
Work-Based Permanent Residency:
- Valid work visa and relevant permits.
- Employment contract and letter of employment.
- Qualification and education certificates.
- Proof of work experience.
- Passport and visa documentation.
- Any additional documents specified by the Russian immigration authorities.
Family Reunification:
- Proof of relationship to the Russian citizen or permanent resident.
- Marriage certificate (if applicable).
- Birth certificates for children.
- Passport and visa documentation.
- Any additional documents required to establish family ties.
Temporary Residency Leading to Permanent Residency:
- Temporary residency permit.
- Proof of residence during the temporary residency period.
- Passport and visa documentation.
- Any other documents specified by the Russian immigration authorities.
Refugee or Asylum Status:
- Documents supporting refugee or asylum status.
- Proof of the need for protection.
- Passport and visa documentation.
- Any other documents required by the asylum or refugee process.
State Program for Compatriots Living Abroad:
- Documents proving Russian descent.
- Proof of residence abroad.
- Passport and visa documentation.
- Any additional documents specified by the state program.
Simplified Naturalization:
- Proof of residence for the designated period.
- Language proficiency certificate.
- Knowledge of Russian history and law.
- Passport and visa documentation.
- Any additional documents required for naturalization.
Adoption:
- Adoption papers and court documents.
- Proof of providing a suitable environment for the adopted child.
- Passport and visa documentation.
- Any other documents specified by the adoption process.
Special Categories:
- Documents supporting the special category (e.g., cultural or scientific contributions).
- Proof of achievements or contributions.
- Passport and visa documentation.
- Any additional documents specified by the relevant program.
Note: Applicants should always check with the Russian immigration authorities or consult with legal professionals to ensure they have all the necessary documents for their specific case. Requirements may change, so staying updated is crucial.
VISA APPLICATION FORMS
Before submitting your visa application, please ensure to review the list of required documents. The guidelines provided on this website will assist you in preparing your documents accurately. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of your visa application being rejected due to incorrect or insufficient documents.
Russia Visa Application Form
Before filling out the form, make sure you have:
- An internet browser with 128-bit encryption and JavaScript. Use Internet Explorer 7.0 or above, or Mozilla Firefox 3.6 and above for our site.
- A PDF viewer like Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- An inkjet or laser printer for the visa form.
- Your valid national passport.
- Any additional documents based on your trip's purpose and duration.
IMPORTANT: If you pause for over 20 minutes while filling the form, your session will expire. Save your application number or draft to avoid restarting from the beginning.
VISA APPLICATION GUIDELINES:
The process for applying for a Permanent Residency in Russia typically involves the following steps:
- Determine Eligibility: Understand the eligibility criteria for obtaining permanent residency in Russia. Requirements may include a certain period of legal residence in the country, stable income, and other factors.
- Temporary Residence Permit (TRP): In many cases, obtaining a temporary residence permit is the first step. This permit is usually valid for three years and can be a prerequisite for permanent residency.
- Meet Residency Requirements: Fulfill the residency requirements specified by Russian immigration laws. This typically involves residing in Russia for a certain number of years under a temporary residence permit.
- Documentation: Prepare the required documentation, which may include proof of identity, proof of legal residence, financial statements, and other supporting documents. The specific documents can vary based on the grounds for applying for permanent residency.
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in the Russian language. This requirement may involve passing a language test.
- Submit Application: Submit the application for permanent residency to the appropriate regional migration office or the Main Directorate for Migration Issues of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation.
- Application Review: The authorities will review your application. This process may take some time, and they may request additional documents or information.
- Permanent Residency Decision: If your application is approved, you will be issued a permanent residence permit. This permit allows you to reside in Russia without time restrictions.
- Renewal and Citizenship Eligibility:
- Permanent residency permits are typically issued for an initial period, and you may need to renew it. After a certain period of permanent residency, you may become eligible to apply for Russian citizenship.
Note:
- Start the application process early: The process can be lengthy, so it's advisable to start planning and gathering documents well in advance.
- Seek professional assistance: If you find the process overwhelming, consider consulting with an immigration lawyer or agency for guidance and support.
- Ensure all documents are accurate and complete: Incomplete or inaccurate documentation can delay the processing time or even result in application rejection.
- Be patient and persistent: The process may take several months, so be patient and follow up with the migration authorities if you have any questions or concerns.
Investment-Based Permanent Residency: This pathway is designed to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth in Russia. Individuals who make significant investments in designated sectors, such as businesses, real estate, or government-approved projects, may be eligible for permanent residency. The specific investment requirements and procedures vary depending on the type of investment and the amount invested.
Work-Based Permanent Residency: This pathway is intended to retain and attract skilled foreign workers who contribute to Russia's economic development. Foreigners with stable employment in Russia, particularly those with high qualifications or specialized skills, may be eligible for permanent residency based on their work status. The eligibility criteria typically involve factors such as employment duration, salary level, and contributions to the Russian economy.
Family Reunification: This pathway allows family members of Russian citizens or permanent residents to join their loved ones in Russia. Spouses, children, parents, and other close relatives may apply for permanent residency through this process. The specific requirements and procedures depend on the family relationship and the status of the family member in Russia.
Temporary Residency Leading to Permanent Residency: Some individuals first obtain temporary residency in Russia, which is typically valid for one to three years. After fulfilling specific requirements during the temporary residency period, such as maintaining employment or demonstrating integration into Russian society, they may become eligible to apply for permanent residency.
Refugee or Asylum Status: Individuals who have been granted refugee or asylum status in Russia due to persecution, conflict, or other humanitarian reasons may have the option to apply for permanent residency. This pathway provides a more secure and long-term legal status for those seeking refuge in Russia.
State Program for Compatriots Living Abroad: This program specifically targets individuals of Russian descent living abroad, aiming to facilitate their return to Russia and recognize their cultural ties. It offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for eligible compatriots, encouraging them to reconnect with their ancestral homeland.
Simplified Naturalization: Foreigners with certain connections to Russia, such as former citizens, spouses of Russian citizens, or individuals with close relatives in Russia, may be eligible for simplified naturalization. This process typically involves less rigorous requirements and a shorter timeframe compared to the standard permanent residency application.
Adoption: Foreigners who are adopted by Russian citizens may be eligible for permanent residency as part of the family reunification process. This pathway ensures that adopted children have the same legal status and rights as their Russian siblings and parents.
Special Categories: This category encompasses various specific circumstances that don't fall neatly into the other categories. It could include individuals with unique qualifications, contributions, or circumstances that warrant special consideration for permanent residency. Each case is evaluated individually, taking into account the individual's background, achievements, and potential contributions to Russia.
Note: Each type of permanent residency in Russia has its own eligibility criteria, requirements, and application procedures. It's important to carefully review the specific details of each category and consult with the relevant Russian authorities or a legal professional to ensure accurate and up-to-date information. Additionally, immigration policies can change, so it's advisable to check the latest regulations from official sources.