General Requirement for Work and Residence Permit Options
Many relocation arrangements require a sponsoring entity in the host country. However, there are several options available for Russian nationals seeking to move abroad.
Australia
Russian nationals needing visa services should contact the Australian Embassy in Belgrade, Serbia, or use Australia’s online services. The Australian government continues to process visa applications from Russian nationals without additional requirements. However, delays are expected due to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Applicants must obtain police and health clearances before applying, though severe delays in receiving police clearance in Russia are possible. Limited flight options are available for leaving Russia.
Chile
Russian nationals can enter Chile as tourists for up to 90 days and extend their stay by another 90 days through a local immigration office. To work and reside in Chile, they must request an appropriate work visa from a Chilean consular post in their country of residence. Currently, changing status while in Chile is no longer possible, and limited flight options may affect the process.
The United Arab Emirates
Russian nationals can enter the UAE and obtain a multiple-entry visa upon arrival, allowing a stay of up to 90 days within a rolling 180-day period. They can also apply for a tourist or business visa for an additional 90 days. A remote work visa, valid for one year and renewable, is another option. This visa allows multiple entries, permits sponsoring family-dependent visas, renting a home, and opening a bank account. To qualify, applicants must provide proof of employment with a non-UAE employer, have an employment contract valid for at least 12 months, and earn a minimum monthly salary of USD 5,000. Processing typically takes seven to ten working days, with additional time for document collection.
Turkey
Russian nationals can initially stay in Turkey for up to 60 days without a visa. After this period, they can extend their stay by exiting and re-entering the country for an additional 30 days. To remain in Turkey beyond 90 days or to obtain work authorization, they must apply for a domestic Work-Residence Permit through a Turkish Embassy or consular post outside Turkey. A Tourist Residence Permit allows a stay of up to one year but does not grant work authorization.
Georgia
Georgia allows Russian citizens to stay visa-free for up to 12 months, during which they can work and apply for work and residence permits if they plan to permanently relocate. Georgian-based entities can obtain work and residence permits for their employees, which are initially granted for six months to one year and can be extended up to twelve years.
Kazakhstan
Russian nationals entering Kazakhstan must submit a ‘Notification of Arrival’ within three business days and provide a notification letter to the Migration Service. Those entering by land must obtain specific permissions from the Interdepartmental Committee (IDC), a process that can take two to four weeks. Air travelers do not need IDC permission. Due to Kazakhstan’s membership in the Eurasian Economic Union, Russian nationals can sign employment contracts without a work permit but must obtain a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) for long-term residence, typically issued within three to five business days.
Armenia
Armenia maintains a visa-free regime with Russia, allowing Russian nationals to stay for up to 180 days within a year with a valid biometric passport. For longer stays, a temporary residence permit is required.
Brazil
Brazil offers various permits for foreign nationals, including work permits for investors and digital nomads. Most residence permits can process locally if the applicant provides the necessary documents upon arrival.
Sweden
Processing times may be delayed due to evolving circumstances. Russian employers without an established entity in Sweden might use an Employer of Record (EOR) firm to assist with local employment and work authorization through a fast-track process.
India
Russian nationals with a valid passport can enter India by obtaining the appropriate visa category prior to departure.
These pathways offer several options for Russian nationals seeking to relocate for work.
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