Migration Law

With the break-up of the Soviet Union, the Iron Curtain collapsed, opening up Russia's borders. A trip to Russia is not something out of the ordinary any more. According to the International Organisation for Migration, more than 12 million foreigners arrive in Russia every year for tourism, to work, study or visit friends or relatives, etc.

Russia's migration law has been significantly liberalised, but it still retains some leftovers from the previous era, so you should think about your trip in detail before you go.

Before entering and staying in Russia, a foreign national needs to obtain a visa from a Russian embassy or consulate.

Within three days of arriving in the country, you need to report to the local office of the Federal Migration Service.

Under the new rules, all formalities must be handled by the host.

The period of stay is determined by the visa duration.

Russian laws provide for temporary residence permits (3 years) and residence permits (5 years, extendable) for foreign nationals who wish to stay on the Russian territory for a long period and comply with certain requirements.

Violation or misinterpretation of migration laws are punishable by fines or deportation, something that can be avoided if you visit a lawyer in time.

Rosjurconsulting advises foreign nationals who wish to reside in Russia or become a Russian national. We can help you with your temporary residence, residence or nationality application, or an appeal against a decision you are unhappy with.

We provide advice to foreigners who wish to marry a Russian national.