How to immigrate to Russia under the "Shared Values" decree #702
Necessary preface: on August 19th, 2024 Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree simplifying and expediting residency permits for foreigners seeking political asylum due to opposing ideological stances in their home countries, provided they share the "traditional spiritual and moral values" of the Eurasian nation. You can read in details about this new decree here: https://ecominded.net/Putins-decree
Key Points of the Decree: In September 2024, the Russian government has released a list of countries whose citizens will be eligible under this new immigration decree. If your country is included, you can apply for a 3-month private entry visa, which is essentially an immigration visa—something not previously available under Russian law. This visa will be issued by the Russian consulate in your country, provided you submit the necessary application and supporting documents. Importantly, unlike other visa types, no invitation letter or voucher from Russia is required. However, each family member must apply for their own visa.
Upon arrival in Russia, you’ll have 7 days to register your address and 3 months to apply for a temporary residency permit (TRP) valid for 3 years. This TRP is available without a quota, eliminating one of the biggest hurdles previously faced by immigrants, who had to apply for limited quotas in Russia with a high risk of rejection. The 3-month window is generally sufficient to apply for a TRP if you’re well-prepared (details on how to prepare are discussed below). The processing time for the TRP is approximately 4 to 4.5 months, during which you can remain in Russia even if your visa expires. The TRP allows you to work without needing a separate work permit, register as an individual entrepreneur to conduct business without forming a legal entity, and access public healthcare. After holding temporary residency for 8 months, you can apply for permanent residency, which is valid for life.
A notable change is that you no longer need to pass a test on Russian language, history, and law to apply for temporary residency. This used to be a significant barrier for many. However, you will still need to pass these tests when applying for permanent residency, but you’ll have nearly 3 years to learn the language. To apply for Russian citizenship, you must live in Russia for 5 years based on permanent residency under current regulations.
Important Pre-Departure Steps:
1. Valid Passports: Ensure all family members have valid passports with enough blank pages for the visa, TRP, and the temporary resident visa. It’s recommended to have at least 4-5 blank pages.
2. Document Apostilles: You’ll need to apostille key documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and police background checks in your home country. Each family member over 14 years old must provide an apostilled police check. The validity of these checks for Russian immigration is 3 months from the date of issue (for example, US citizens need an FBI check apostilled in Washington, DC, and UK citizens need an ACRO report, not a DBS check).
3. Legal Consultation: It’s highly advisable to consult a Russian immigration lawyer once you decide to proceed, as discrepancies in documents often arise that can slow the process.
4. Asset Sales and Documentation: If you’re selling property or other assets, ensure that all documents related to the source of funds are in order.
5. Vehicles and Precious Metals: Avoid bringing vehicles or precious metals, as you’ll face a 30% customs duty on the latter.
6. Money Transfers: There is no one-size-fits-all solution for transferring funds to Russia; each case is unique and should be carefully planned. And here we can help you with transferring your funds via Cryptocurrency. Please get more information here: https://ecominded.net/money-transfer-to-russia
7. Careful Planning: Keep in mind that this move may be permanent, and your home country might not be pleased with your decision to relocate to Russia.
Steps Upon Arrival:
1. Secure Accommodation: You must register your address within 7 days of arriving in Russia. If you’re staying at a hotel, the hotel will handle the registration for the duration of your stay. However, ensure that your landlord agrees to register you if you’re renting.
2. Get a Local SIM Card: Obtain a Russian SIM card for easier communication.
3. Open a Russian Bank Account: You’ll need a local bank account to manage finances.
4. Medical Exams: Complete the required medical examinations necessary for applying for temporary residency.
By following these guidelines and preparing thoroughly, you can navigate the immigration process efficiently under this new decree.
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A few sample links below will help you to start an immigration procedure under the Putin's Decree #702:
Russian Embassy in the USA, Application form;
Russian Embassy in Australia, Application form;
Russian Embassy in New Zealand,
To get more information about life in Russia please read our articles in "Moving to russia" section.
The article on How to transfer your money to Russia is the most recommended to read.
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