Work Permit for Foreigners in Russia in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

In 2024, the employment of foreign nationals in Russia is regulated by strict rules. For legal employment, a foreign citizen (including stateless persons) must obtain a work permit (WP). Certain categories are exempt, which we’ll discuss below. Obtaining a WP is a multi-step process, with most of the responsibilities falling on the employer.

 Who Needs a Work Permit?

A work permit is mandatory for most foreign nationals entering Russia on a visa who plan to work. This applies to both regular employees and highly qualified specialists (HQS). Stateless persons are also required to obtain a WP.

Who Is Exempt from Obtaining a Work Permit?

Several categories of foreigners are exempt from the need to obtain a WP:

1 – Full-time Students: They may work while studying but with certain restrictions.

2 – Refugees and Those with Temporary Asylum: Their legal status allows them to work without obtaining a WP.

3 – Foreigners with a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP): The TRP itself grants the right to work.

4 – Foreigners with a Residence Permit (RP): The RP grants the right to live and work permanently without additional permits.

5 – Employees of Foreign Companies Engaged in Equipment Maintenance or Installation: This specific category is exempt from WPs as part of contract obligations.

6 – Stateless Persons with Temporary Identity Certificates Issued in Russia: Specific conditions should be clarified with the migration service.

7 – Participants in the Repatriation Program: Special rules and simplified procedures apply to them.

8 – Employees of IT Companies: This category may have simplified procedures depending on the company’s and project’s specific status. It’s essential to review current legislation.

Work Permit Application Process

For the Employer:

1. Notification of Intent to Hire Foreign Workers: The employer must complete this step well in advance of the foreign worker’s arrival. It includes details about the vacancy, the worker’s qualifications, and other relevant information. The notification is submitted to the migration service.

2. Obtaining a Quota for Hiring Foreign Workers: If necessary (depending on the region and industry), the employer must acquire a quota to hire foreign labor.

3. Obtaining Permission to Employ Foreign Workers: Based on the notification and quota (if required), the migration service issues the employer permission to hire a foreign worker.

4. Collecting Documents from the Foreign Worker: The employer gathers all necessary documents from the future employee, including passports, visas, medical certificates, etc.

5. Submitting the Work Permit Application for the Foreign Worker: Once all required documents are collected, the employer submits the Work Permit application for the foreign worker to the migration service.

For the Foreign Worker:

Once the Work Permiy is received from the employer, the foreign national may begin working in Russia.

Differences in Work Permit Processing for HQS and Regular Workers

The Work Permit application process for highly qualified specialists is typically simplified. Requirements regarding qualifications, documentation, and application processing times may differ.

 Where Is the Work Permit Issued?

The work permit is issued by the regional offices of the Main Directorate for Migration Affairs of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia (GUVM MVD).