Russian Immigration & Relocation Guide

Russia ranks 4th among top immigrant destinations around the world. Moving to Russia is becoming increasingly popular not only from neighbouring countries, but also from the US, UK, Canada, Germany, Australia and other countries.
Moving to Russia involves a number of legal and administrative steps. The appropriate procedure depends on your nationality, circumstances, intended purpose of stay and other factors. Our consultants can explain the available options and help you understand the applicable Russian immigration rules.

Russian residency

A residence permit (green card) is usually approved if an applicant has some connections with Russia such as a job in a Russian company, a business in Russia, a property, Russian ancestry or relatives, etc.
Under standard immigration procedure an applicant is expected to pass a language test (some applicants are exempt), reside in Russia for at least one year with a temporary residence permit and five years with a permanent residence permit. However, some strategies allow expedited and simplified immigration.
Check top 5 strategies to immigrate to Russia in 2026 and simplified residency for applicants sharing Russian traditional values.  
Russian residents have almost the same rights as Russian citizens do. They can live and work in Russia, enjoy different social benefits, etc.

Russian citizensip

To become a Russian citizen an applicant is usually expected to live in Russia for at least five years as a permanent resident. At the same time there are several immigration strategies that allow to get Russian citizenship within just 1-3 years.
Russian passport gives full protection to its holders. Russia never extradites its citizens. Moreover, Russian legislation doesn't prohibit having other citizenships and residencies. Thus, new citizens are able to keep all their citizenships.

How to immigrate to Russia: Action plan

  1. Check what immigration strategies are available in your case. Book a consultation with our lawyer to find out your options and detailed procedures. Decide on your immigration plan.
  2. Establish a connection with Russia depending on the immigration strategy you choose. Find a job or register a company in Russia, go to a Russian university or purchase a property, prove your Russian ancestry or marry your Russian girlfriend/boyfriend.
  3. Prepare for and pass a language test (if you are not exempt). The earlier you start preparations, the better results you will get. Not many people in Russia speak English, and fluent Russian may be required for comfortable living.
  4. Prepare the paperwork and apply for Russian residency and citizenship. Our immigration attorneys will gladly assist with the paperwork and guide you through the whole immigration process.

Our services

Consultation & Immigration Plan
💬 Personalised Consultation
A 60–90-minute online consultation with our immigration attorney focused on your individual situation, immigration strategies, procedures and paperwork.
📋 Clear Step-by-Step Plan
A follow-up email with the key points of the discussion and a clear step-by-step plan to follow.
💬 Ongoing Answers
Support with any immigration-related questions from employment and business opportunities to taxation and purchasing a property, etc.
If you decide to go ahead with our Residency Support Package, we will provide a discount for the cost of the consultation.
Cost: $150
Order
Residency Support Package
🧭 Step-by-Step Guidance
Remote support throughout the residency application process, from understanding the requirements to preparing for submission.
📄 Document & Application Support
Review of your paperwork and assistance with completing the required application forms.
💬 Ongoing Answers
Support with any immigration-related questions from employment and business opportunities to taxation and purchasing a property, etc.
Government authorities independently review applications and make all decisions on residence permits. SDV Consulting does not issue government documents or guarantee approval.
Cost: $650
Order
SDV Consulting is an independent private company providing legal and consulting services. We are not affiliated with any government agency. Government authorities independently process and decide upon applications for visas, residence permits, citizenship, and other official documents. We offer independent legal advice, consulting, document review, translation and administrative guidance.
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