Russia to Introduce New Skill Visa Offering Jobs and Permanent Residency

New Delhi / Moscow: Indian professionals aspiring to work in Russia have reason to celebrate. The Russian government is set to launch a new Skill Visa program from April next year, allowing skilled foreign workers to secure employment in Russia. The program also offers three-year temporary residency, with permanent residency for selected categories of workers, marking a significant boost to India-Russia bilateral cooperation.

Visa Program Details

The initiative stems from agreements signed at last week’s India-Russia bilateral summit. According to the Economic Times, Russian President Vladimir Putin approved the order ahead of his official visit to India.

Under the program, foreign nationals and their families working in fields such as science, economics, industry, education, culture, business, and sports can apply for temporary residency in Russia for three years. Notably, applicants will not need to pass a Russian language test or adhere to an immigration quota, simplifying the entry process.

How the Program Works

Officials familiar with the program explained that it will follow a two-step process:

1. Agency Application: Foreign nationals must first submit an application through an approved agency. Approval from the agency is valid for one year.
2. Immigration Application: Once approved, applicants can file for temporary or permanent residency with Russian immigration authorities.

Applications can be filed digitally from the applicant’s home country. Upon approval, foreign nationals and their families receive a one-year business visa, allowing entry into Russia. During this period, they can work without a separate work permit until the residency application is processed. Typically, applications are processed within 30 days.

Significance for India-Russia Relations

Thousands of Indians are already employed in Russia, benefiting from the long-standing ties between the two nations. The new Skill Visa is expected to streamline talent mobility, attract skilled workers, and provide stability for foreign professionals and their families.

With temporary and permanent residency options, this initiative represents one of the most significant steps by Russia to make its labor market more accessible to global talent, especially from India.