The Russian government has introduced significant changes to the immigration process for foreign professionals seeking a residence permit (RP/ ВНЖ). The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection has approved a new List of Professions (Order No. 172n, dated April 3, 2025) that allows qualified foreign workers to obtain an RP without first securing a temporary residence permit (TRP).
This reform aims to streamline immigration for highly skilled professionals in critical industries while tightening requirements for other fields. Below, we break down the key details, eligibility criteria, and application process.
Key Changes in the New System
1. Drastic Reduction in Eligible Professions
The previous list included 203 professions, but the updated version narrows it down to only 29 specialties, focusing on:
– Big data analysts (industrial/astrophysics applications)
– Software engineers (robotics, aerospace, AI)
– Skilled industrial workers (welders, electricians, pipefitters in shipbuilding, etc.)
Excluded categories:
– Medical professionals
– Teachers & academics
– Agricultural & construction workers
– Journalists & writers
2. Stricter Employment & Qualification Requirements
To qualify for the simplified RP process, a foreign specialist must:
✔ Work continuously in Russia for at least 1 year in an approved profession.
✔ Have official employment records (workbook, contract, or tax contributions).
✔ Provide proof of education (recognized Russian or foreign credentials).
✔ Maintain employment—losing a job means finding a new employer within 30 days or risking RP cancellation.
3. Faster Processing Time
– 4-month decision period (from application submission).
– Indefinite validity (but tied to employment in the approved field).
How to Apply for the Simplified Residence Permit
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Check if your profession is listed in Order No. 172n.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
– Employment proof
– Work record book (or certified copy)
– Tax contribution records (Pension Fund/Social Insurance)
– Current employment contract
– Education/qualification certificates (must be recognized in Russia).
Step 3: Submit the Application
– Online: Via the Gosuslugi portal (electronic submission).
– In-person: At a Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) office or authorized migration center.
Step 4: Await Approval
– Processing time: Up to 4 months.
– If approved, the RP is issued indefinitely but requires maintaining employment in the approved field.
Important Considerations
1. Pathway to Citizenship
– Foreigners who graduated from Russian-accredited universities and work in their field for 1+ years can later apply for Russian citizenship.
– Others must follow standard naturalization rules (5+ years of residency).
2. Employer Responsibilities
Companies hiring foreign specialists must:
✔ Register them with tax authorities.
✔ Pay **mandatory insurance contributions.
✔ Notify authorities if employment ends.
3. Risks of Non-Compliance
– Losing a job = 30-day deadline to find a new employer in the same field.
– False documentation = deportation & entry bans.
Russia’s new immigration rules prioritize highly skilled technical workers while making it harder for other professionals to qualify. If you meet the criteria, the simplified RP process offers a faster route to long-term residency—but with strict employment conditions.
For the full list of approved professions, refer to the official government publication.
This is not official legal advice. Need help? Consult an immigration lawyer to ensure compliance.
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