Russia, the world’s largest country by landmass, spans Eastern Europe and northern Asia and is rich in natural resources and industrial capacity. While its economy is dominated by energy exports and defense, it also invests heavily in high-tech, agriculture, manufacturing, and nuclear technology through state-led enterprises. Currently facing severe labor shortages across key sectors like IT, construction, healthcare, transportation, and agriculture, Russia has become increasingly open—though not fully—to foreign skilled workforce to support national development. The government has recently launched a unique “shared values” or “anti-woke” visa program, granting residency and eventual citizenship to individuals from select Western countries who align with conservative social values; around 700 such visas were issued in 2025
Issued for employment in Russia, typically valid for up to one year (renewable).
Requires the employer to secure a work permit quota, demonstrate inability to find local candidates, and submit corporate documentation and employment contracts
Highly Qualified Specialist (HQS) Visa
For professionals earning above a salary threshold (~RUB 1 million/year).
Processing is faster; visas can last for up to three years, and dependents (spouse, children) may receive residence permits.
HQS holders are exempt from quota restrictions.
Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa
For employees relocating within multinational firms.
Covers short- and long-term assignments, depending on contract length.
Seasonal/Temporary Work Permits
For short-term roles in sectors like agriculture, hospitality, and construction.
Valid up to nine months, renewable per policy.
Application Process & Stages
Job Offer & Employer Quota: Employer obtains approval for a quota slot and prepares a work permit application to the Federal Migration Service (FMS).
Work Permit Issued: Once approved, an official invitation letter is generated.
Visa Application: The applicant applies through a Russian consulate in their home country, submitting passport, visa form, invitation, health certificate (including HIV/TB), insurance, and photos.
Travel & Registration: On arrival, a migration card is issued; visa registration must be completed within seven days via the Migration Service or local employer/hotel/landlord.
Visa Activation & Biometric Data: Insurance, medical tests, and biometric registration are required. Work may only begin once all formalities are finalized .
Costs & Processing Times
Consulate visa fees vary by nationality, duration, and entry type—generally between €30 and €500 (₹2,700–44,000) .
Standard multiple-entry visa: 7–20 working days, with 3-day expedited option at higher cost.
HQS visas usually process faster within 7–10 days due to priority handling.
Work permits and quotas may take 4–12 weeks to process depending on employer readiness and bureaucracy.
Benefits of Working in Russia
Access to legal employment, public healthcare, pensions, and other state benefits once sponsored by an employer.
HQS visa holders and their family can live and work in Russia with more flexibility and longer-term permits.
Long-term employees may qualify for Temporary Residence Permits (TRP) and eventually Permanent Residence with a path to citizenship.
Opportunities & Key Employers
Despite sanctions and Western corporate departures, Russia still hosts international firms in agriculture, infrastructure, and tech:
For example, Cargill Russia remains active in grain, oilseeds, and food production with about 2,500 employees.
The Skolkovo Innovation Center nurtures high-tech startups and promotes foreign innovation collaboration, offering tax and soft-landing support for international ventures.
The state energy firm Rosatom employs over 371,000 across nuclear power, microelectronics, and hydrogen fuel sectors and remains a major recruiter of technical talent.
In the tech space, companies such as Kaspersky, Positive Technologies, Xsolla, and Huawei remain hiring hubs for foreign IT professional
Why Choose Russia?
High demand for labor in infrastructure, healthcare, IT, and agriculture due to labor shortages—necessitating foreign recruits across sectors .
Fast-track visa for highly qualified specialists, especially in priority areas, with family inclusion and reduced bureaucracy.
Unique residency options like the “shared values” visa attract a niche population based on ideological alignment
Emerging innovation centres and ongoing international projects still create opportunities for foreign professionals despite geopolitical headwinds.
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Expertise You Can Trust
With years of experience navigating Canada’s complex immigration system, our team of certified immigration consultants and legal experts ensures every application is prepared accurately, professionally, and in compliance with the latest IRCC policies.
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From helping you secure a job offer or LMIA, to preparing work permit applications, to guiding you toward permanent residency — we’re with you every step of the way. No guesswork, no missed steps.
Tailored Pathways
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. We assess your unique background — education, work experience, goals — and match you with the best visa stream (employer-specific, open, Global Talent, IEC, etc.).
Faster Processing with Strategic Programs
We specialize in high-priority and fast-track programs like:
Global Talent Stream (2-week processing)
Francophone Mobility Stream
Post-Graduate Work Permits
We help you get to Canada quicker.
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We collaborate with reputable Canadian employers actively hiring foreign talent in tech, healthcare, agriculture, and skilled trades — increasing your job chances significantly.
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