Work visa to Russia: types, requirements, terms

Work visa to Russia is an official document that allows a foreign citizen to legally enter and work in the country based on an employment offer and employer sponsorship. In 2025, Russia will tighten its migration policy while experiencing a need for labor, especially in highly qualified specialists.

• Single-entry work visa – up to 90 days, usually with an extension inside the Russian Federation after obtaining a work permit. 
• Multiple-entry work visa – term up to 1 year (can be obtained for up to 3 years), allows multiple entries.
• HQS (Highly Qualified Specialist) – visa program for highly qualified specialists with salaries over ~1 million ₽/year. The visa is valid for up to 3 years, family entry is possible. 
• Alternative: patent and other forms – for self-employed and seasonal workers, but require different conditions.

• Employment offer from a Russian employer, accredited by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
• Work invitation (invitation) — is processed and approved by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
• Work permit (permit) — a quota is required for regular positions; HQS specialists are exempt. 
• Foreign passport – valid for at least 6 months after the visa expires.
• Photograph
• Filled out application form
• Medical examination and a certificate of no HIV/drug addiction (requirement from 2024).
• Fingerprinting (mandatory from 2023).
• Insurance — coverage for the duration of stay is mandatory (especially for Europeans, etc.).
• Receipts for payment of consular fees 

1. Receive a job offer →
2. The employer arranges a permit and invitation →
3. You collect a package of documents and pass them to us (without queuing and without leaving home) or to the consulate (in order of queue according to working hours) →
4. Pay the fees, undergo an interview (if necessary) →
5. The visa is processed within 5–30 working days (usually 7–20). 
6. Upon arriving in Russia, register with the migration authorities (within 7 days).

The cost of processing a work visa depends on its type and the frequency of entry. A single-entry visa will cost from 204 €, a double-entry from 278 €, and a multiple-entry from 399 €. These options are suitable for temporary stays or repeated business trips, depending on the purpose of the visit and the duration.

To arrange a full work visa with an official invitation from an employer, the cost starts at 4473 €. This amount includes the processing of a work permit, preparation of all necessary documents, and assistance at all stages of the visa process. Please note that the final cost may vary depending on urgency, country of application, and individual conditions.

You can find out the current cost of a work visa on the page Cost or from our managers.

Usually, there are no problems with extending short-term residence permits (e.g., for 90 days) locally, if there is a valid service agreement or employment contract.