Russian Work Visa for Foreign Citizens

A work visa is required for foreign citizens planning to be employed in Russia. It is issued based on a work permit and allows continuous stay for the duration of employment.

Types of work visas: ordinary work visa (up to 1 year, renewable), HQS visa (up to 3 years), visa for foreign workers under organized recruitment programs.

Process: employer obtains permission to hire foreign workers → applies for work permit → receives invitation from Ministry of Internal Affairs → employee applies for visa at consulate.

Requirements: invitation from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, valid passport, completed application form, photo, medical certificates (HIV, drug test, infectious diseases), work permit copy.

Work visa advantages: allows continuous stay in Russia, official employment with social guarantees, path to temporary and permanent residence permits.

Processing time: the entire process (from work permit to visa issuance) typically takes 2–4 months. The visa itself is issued within 4–20 business days after receiving the invitation.