Russia Announces New Skilled Visa Route for Long-Term Residency Starting April 2026. Check If You Qualify!

Russia has introduced a new skilled visa route that allows qualified foreign professionals to obtain either a three-year temporary residency or, in eligible cases, permanent residency. The programme is designed to attract specialists in key sectors and streamline the process of living and working in Russia. It removes several traditional barriers, offering faster processing and simplified requirements compared to existing pathways. Once approved through the designated agency, applicants receive a one-year business visa that permits them to work in Russia while their residency application is finalized. The initiative aims to support Russia’s workforce needs and modernize immigration options for skilled talent.

Eligibility for Russia’s skilled visa covers foreign nationals working in high-value sectors such as science, business, industry, education, culture, and sports. The programme is open to both professionals and their family members, making relocation more accessible. Unlike traditional visa routes, this pathway does not require applicants to pass Russian language tests, nor does it depend on immigration quotas. The emphasis is on attracting individuals with specialized skills who can contribute to national development. Applicants must submit their documents through an approved agency, demonstrating their qualifications and professional relevance before proceeding to the residency stage with Russian immigration authorities.

Russia’s new skilled visa and residency programme will officially take effect on 15 April 2026. From this date, eligible foreign professionals can begin applying through designated agencies responsible for evaluating applications. The government has created this timeline to ensure smooth implementation and preparation of administrative processes. Starting April 2026, approved applicants will be able to obtain a one-year business visa that allows them to enter and work in Russia while their residency application is processed. The launch marks a major step in Russia’s long-term labour strategy to strengthen its workforce and attract international specialists in priority sectors.

No, the programme removes two major barriers—language tests and immigration quotas. Applicants are not required to demonstrate Russian language proficiency, which simplifies entry for global professionals who may not yet speak Russian. In addition, the scheme is not tied to immigration quotas, making it more flexible and accessible than traditional routes. This approach is designed to encourage more skilled workers to relocate, especially in fields facing shortages. By eliminating these requirements, Russia aims to reduce administrative hurdles, accelerate the visa process, and create a more welcoming environment for foreign specialists seeking residency and long-term career opportunities in the country.

The residency programme targets skilled professionals across science, business, industry, education, culture, and sports. These sectors are experiencing workforce shortages and require international expertise to support national growth. Russia is particularly focused on attracting individuals who can contribute to innovation, advanced industries, and cultural development. Manufacturing sectors have also reported significant labour gaps, reinforcing the need for foreign talent. By broadening eligibility across multiple high-impact fields, the government aims to diversify its talent pool and strengthen economic competitiveness. The programme ensures that applicants with relevant backgrounds can access streamlined pathways to residency without excessive documentation or assessments.

The process follows two key stages. First, applicants must apply through an authorized agency, submitting qualifications and supporting documents digitally from their home country. If the agency approves the application, the individual receives a one-year business visa that allows entry into Russia and grants immediate work rights. The second stage involves submitting a formal residency application to immigration authorities for either a three-year temporary residency or permanent residency, depending on eligibility. Authorities are required to process this application within 30 days. The simplified, two-step structure is designed to reduce waiting times and provide a smooth transition for skilled workers.

Yes. Once applicants receive approval from the designated agency, they are issued a one-year business visa that explicitly permits employment in Russia during the residency processing period. This means professionals do not need to wait for their temporary or permanent residency to be finalized before starting work. The arrangement benefits both employers and applicants by allowing immediate workforce entry, addressing labour shortages quickly, and reducing delays associated with traditional visa categories. This feature also improves the attractiveness of the programme by offering early access to the job market and minimizing uncertainty for skilled workers and their families.

After the applicant submits their residency application through immigration authorities, Russia is expected to issue the temporary or permanent residency within 30 days. This accelerated timeline is a major advantage compared to standard visa and residency processes, which often take longer. The faster processing window is part of Russia’s broader strategy to streamline skilled migration and meet urgent labour market needs. Applicants can also work during this period on their one-year business visa, reducing downtime and allowing them to integrate into the workforce immediately. The predictable 30-day processing timeline offers transparency and convenience for skilled professionals planning relocation.

Russia is facing notable labour shortages in key industries, especially manufacturing, which has emphasized the urgent need for skilled foreign workers. The new visa route is part of a broader strategy to attract international talent, strengthen the workforce, and boost economic productivity. By simplifying eligibility, removing language tests, and accelerating processing, Russia aims to position itself competitively in the global talent market. The programme also aligns with recent bilateral cooperation initiatives, including mobility agreements with countries like India. Overall, it reflects Russia’s intent to modernize its immigration system and create more accessible pathways for qualified professionals seeking long-term opportunities.

Yes. The programme explicitly includes family members of skilled applicants, allowing them to accompany the principal applicant to Russia. Once the agency approves the main applicant, family members also qualify for the one-year business visa and receive the same work rights during the processing period. They can then apply for temporary or permanent residency alongside the primary applicant. This family-friendly approach makes relocation easier, supports long-term settlement, and enhances the attractiveness of the visa route for professionals seeking stability. By including dependents, Russia aims to draw more committed, long-term migrants who can contribute to society and the workforce.