Introduction
For many Russians, the decision to move abroad in 2025 is driven by the search for stability, better economic opportunities, and long-term security.
The best destination for Russians depends on personal goals, but certain countries consistently stand out. The UAE attracts entrepreneurs and business professionals, while Portugal, Cyprus, and Greece are ideal for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle and opportunities for remote work. Canada remains a top choice for skilled professionals and families, whereas Hungary is an affordable, closer-to-home option.
Many of these destinations also provide attractive residency and citizenship through investment programs, giving Russians a pathway to greater mobility and security and even the chance to acquire a second passport.
This guide explores the top 10 countries to move from Russia and what makes each one the ideal choice for your needs.
- Why are Russians moving abroad?
- What should Russians consider before relocating?
- 10 Best Countries to Move to from Russia
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Russians moving abroad?
According to the Global Citizen Solutions’ Global Intelligence Unit’s (GIU) “The Power of Global Wealth Mobility” Report, “In Russia, the 2022 invasion of Ukraine triggered capital sanctions and severe banking instability, prompting over 15,000 wealthy individuals to relocate their assets or families to more politically neutral countries like the UAE.”
This high-net-worth exodus highlights a broader trend of Russian citizens seeking stability and opportunity abroad. Here are just some of the additional reasons:
– Political climate: Domestic restrictions and the Russian government’s tightening policies drive citizens to explore opportunities abroad.
– Economic pressures: Inflation, sanctions, and fewer global partnerships are limiting job opportunities and business prospects.
– Fewer options in Europe: Russian visa restrictions and sanctions imposed by the European Union (EU) has left fewer open doors.
– Security and lifestyle: Families want entry to better health care and education, and more personal freedoms abroad.
– Migration trends: Beyond wealthier movers, many ordinary Russians are also prioritizing countries that combine ease of entry, affordability, and long-term security.
– Economic pressures: Inflation, sanctions, and fewer global partnerships are limiting job opportunities and business prospects.
– Fewer options in Europe: Russian visa restrictions and sanctions imposed by the European Union (EU) has left fewer open doors.
– Security and lifestyle: Families want entry to better health care and education, and more personal freedoms abroad.
– Migration trends: Beyond wealthier movers, many ordinary Russians are also prioritizing countries that combine ease of entry, affordability, and long-term security.
What should Russians consider before relocating?
- Visa-free travel: Short-term stays are easier in countries like Turkey and the UAE. Countries in the West usually require formal visa applications.
- Proximity and integration: Russian-speaking communities of immigrants ease cultural transitions.
- Living costs and housing market: Affordable options in the Caucasus and Balkans contrast with expensive housing in Canada, France, or the UAE.
- Employment opportunities: Germany, Canada, and Kazakhstan are attractive for skilled workers while Thailand and Argentina appeal to freelancers.
- Residency and citizenship: Countries in the West tend to offer structured but longer routes to permanent residency.
10 Best Countries to Move to from Russia
01/
Hungary: Central European Charm at Lower Costs
Hungary is a central European nation combining affordability, rich cultural life in Budapest, and direct access to the EU. For Russians, the newly reopened Golden Visa program provides a clear pathway to residency.
– Safety and stability: Hungary is politically stable and ranks mid-high on the Global Peace Index compared to other EU states.
– Education: Hungary hosts several universities ranked in the QS Top 1000, including Eötvös Loránd University. Russian students benefit from affordable tuition compared to Western Europe.
– Healthcare: Public healthcare is available, but many expats opt for private clinics for higher service standards. Hungary combines access to a strong healthcare system with a lower cost of living compared to many Western countries.
– Cost of living: Moderate. A single expat spends around $1,200 to $1,400 per month, with Budapest pricier than smaller towns.
– Average salary: Around $1,300 per month. Employment opportunities exist in IT, automotive, and logistics.
– Taxes: Hungary applies a flat 15% personal income tax, one of the lowest in the EU.
– Residency and citizenship: The Hungary Golden Visa for Russian citizens (also known as the Guest Investor Program) with a €250,000 real estate fund subscription. Other routes include work permits and student visas. Citizenship is possible after 8 years of residence.
– Education: Hungary hosts several universities ranked in the QS Top 1000, including Eötvös Loránd University. Russian students benefit from affordable tuition compared to Western Europe.
– Healthcare: Public healthcare is available, but many expats opt for private clinics for higher service standards. Hungary combines access to a strong healthcare system with a lower cost of living compared to many Western countries.
– Cost of living: Moderate. A single expat spends around $1,200 to $1,400 per month, with Budapest pricier than smaller towns.
– Average salary: Around $1,300 per month. Employment opportunities exist in IT, automotive, and logistics.
– Taxes: Hungary applies a flat 15% personal income tax, one of the lowest in the EU.
– Residency and citizenship: The Hungary Golden Visa for Russian citizens (also known as the Guest Investor Program) with a €250,000 real estate fund subscription. Other routes include work permits and student visas. Citizenship is possible after 8 years of residence.
02/
UAE: Tax-Free Living and Global Connectivity
The UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is a favorite for Russian investors seeking tax-free living (it is one of the countries with no income tax), modern infrastructure, and an established expat community.
– Safety and stability: The UAE ranks high for safety and offers a politically secure environment.
– Education: The UAE has more than 80 international schools and branches of Western universities in Dubai. It consistently ranks high in quality of private education.
– Healthcare: The UAE offers world-class healthcare infrastructure, with Dubai ranked among the top global hubs for medical tourism.
– Cost of living: High. A single expat typically spends $3,000 to $3,500 per month, with housing costs being the largest expense.
– Average salary: Around $3,500 per month. Sectors like finance, construction, and technology offer strong opportunities.
– Taxes: The UAE has no personal income tax, making it highly attractive for professionals and entrepreneurs.
– Residency and citizenship: One can apply for UAE Golden Visa for Russian citizens, which grants 5-to-10-year renewable residency for investors, property buyers, and professionals. Other routes include the Green Visa (for freelancers and skilled workers) and employment-sponsored visas.
– Education: The UAE has more than 80 international schools and branches of Western universities in Dubai. It consistently ranks high in quality of private education.
– Healthcare: The UAE offers world-class healthcare infrastructure, with Dubai ranked among the top global hubs for medical tourism.
– Cost of living: High. A single expat typically spends $3,000 to $3,500 per month, with housing costs being the largest expense.
– Average salary: Around $3,500 per month. Sectors like finance, construction, and technology offer strong opportunities.
– Taxes: The UAE has no personal income tax, making it highly attractive for professionals and entrepreneurs.
– Residency and citizenship: One can apply for UAE Golden Visa for Russian citizens, which grants 5-to-10-year renewable residency for investors, property buyers, and professionals. Other routes include the Green Visa (for freelancers and skilled workers) and employment-sponsored visas.
For Russian citizens seeking a fast, tax-free Middle East residency, the UAE Golden Visa offers long-term stability and opportunity.
03/
Cyprus: Mediterranean Lifestyle with EU Access
Cyprus offers Russians a sunny climate, cultural familiarity, and a strong expat network in Limassol, Paphos, and Nicosia. There are quite a large Russian population and influence on the island, especially since there are strong political ties and a shared religion involved.
– Safety and stability: Cyprus is politically stable and safer than many Mediterranean countries.
– Education: Cyprus offers both public and private English-language schooling. The University of Cyprus and private colleges are popular among international students.
– Healthcare: Moving to Cyprus provides access to a mixed public-private healthcare system (GeSY), featuring modern public facilities staffed by highly trained professionals, all funded through state allocations and employee contributions.
– Cost of living: Moderate. A single expat spends $1,500 to $1,800 per month, with costs being higher in Limassol.
– Average salary: Around $1,800 per month. Tourism, finance, and shipping are key industries to gain employment in.
– Taxes: Cyprus’ Non-Domiciled Tax Residence Program offers a favorable tax structure with exemptions for non-domiciled residents and no inheritance tax.
– Residency and citizenship: The Cyprus Permanent Residence by Investment for Russians (also known as the Cyprus Golden Visa) grants permanent residence with a €300,000 property investment. Other options include work permits, startup visas, and student visas.
– Education: Cyprus offers both public and private English-language schooling. The University of Cyprus and private colleges are popular among international students.
– Healthcare: Moving to Cyprus provides access to a mixed public-private healthcare system (GeSY), featuring modern public facilities staffed by highly trained professionals, all funded through state allocations and employee contributions.
– Cost of living: Moderate. A single expat spends $1,500 to $1,800 per month, with costs being higher in Limassol.
– Average salary: Around $1,800 per month. Tourism, finance, and shipping are key industries to gain employment in.
– Taxes: Cyprus’ Non-Domiciled Tax Residence Program offers a favorable tax structure with exemptions for non-domiciled residents and no inheritance tax.
– Residency and citizenship: The Cyprus Permanent Residence by Investment for Russians (also known as the Cyprus Golden Visa) grants permanent residence with a €300,000 property investment. Other options include work permits, startup visas, and student visas.
04/
Turkey: Fast Citizenship and Mediterranean Living
Turkey remains one of the most popular destinations for Russians thanks to its warm climate, real estate market, and Russian-speaking communities in Antalya, Alanya, and Istanbul.
– Safety and stability: Turkey scores mid-range on the Global Peace Index but offers greater stability than many regional neighbors.
– Education: Turkey is home to over 200 universities, with Istanbul universities ranked in global QS lists. Russian families often use international schools in Antalya.
– Healthcare: Turkey has become a top global medical tourism destination, with expats benefiting from affordable, high-quality private healthcare.
– Cost of living: Relatively affordable. A single expat spends around $900 to $1,100 per month, with Istanbul more expensive.
– Average salary: Around $900 per month. Employment opportunities exist in tourism, IT, and real estate.
– Taxes: Turkey uses a territorial tax system, with certain foreign income not taxed if not remitted.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians can obtain the Turkey Citizenship by Investment Program, which grants a passport in 6 to 8 months with a $400,000 real estate purchase. Other routes include residence permits and work visas.
– Education: Turkey is home to over 200 universities, with Istanbul universities ranked in global QS lists. Russian families often use international schools in Antalya.
– Healthcare: Turkey has become a top global medical tourism destination, with expats benefiting from affordable, high-quality private healthcare.
– Cost of living: Relatively affordable. A single expat spends around $900 to $1,100 per month, with Istanbul more expensive.
– Average salary: Around $900 per month. Employment opportunities exist in tourism, IT, and real estate.
– Taxes: Turkey uses a territorial tax system, with certain foreign income not taxed if not remitted.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians can obtain the Turkey Citizenship by Investment Program, which grants a passport in 6 to 8 months with a $400,000 real estate purchase. Other routes include residence permits and work visas.
05/
Serbia: Affordable European Residence with Cultural Ties
Serbia has become a favored choice for Russians since 2022, offering visa-free entry, straightforward residency options, and easy cultural integration.
Since Serbian and Russian are both Slavic languages, many Serbs understand Russian. There’s a growing Russian-speaking community in Belgrade and Novi Sad.
Since Serbian and Russian are both Slavic languages, many Serbs understand Russian. There’s a growing Russian-speaking community in Belgrade and Novi Sad.
– Safety and stability: Serbia ranks more peaceful than many EU states. While not an EU member, it offers political stability and a friendly stance toward Russians.
– Education: Belgrade University ranks among Southeast Europe’s most reputable institutions. Many Russian families opt for bilingual schools.
– Healthcare: Serbia’s public healthcare is basic but inexpensive; private clinics are widely used by expats for higher standards.
– Cost of living: Affordable. A single expat typically spends $900 to $1,100 per month on housing and daily expenses.
– Average salary: Around $1,200 per month. Employment opportunities exist in IT, engineering, and manufacturing.
– Taxes: Serbia applies a flat income tax of 10% to 15%, which is relatively low compared to Western Europe.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians can apply through the Serbia Residency by Investment program, which allows permits based on company formation or real estate purchase. Other options include a temporary Serbia Residence Permit via business, work, or study. Permanent residence is possible after 5 years, with citizenship after 8 years (or 3 years if married to a Serbian citizen).
– Education: Belgrade University ranks among Southeast Europe’s most reputable institutions. Many Russian families opt for bilingual schools.
– Healthcare: Serbia’s public healthcare is basic but inexpensive; private clinics are widely used by expats for higher standards.
– Cost of living: Affordable. A single expat typically spends $900 to $1,100 per month on housing and daily expenses.
– Average salary: Around $1,200 per month. Employment opportunities exist in IT, engineering, and manufacturing.
– Taxes: Serbia applies a flat income tax of 10% to 15%, which is relatively low compared to Western Europe.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians can apply through the Serbia Residency by Investment program, which allows permits based on company formation or real estate purchase. Other options include a temporary Serbia Residence Permit via business, work, or study. Permanent residence is possible after 5 years, with citizenship after 8 years (or 3 years if married to a Serbian citizen).
06/
Vanuatu: Quickest Route to a Second Passport
Vanuatu is popular for Russians seeking a quick, straightforward path to a second passport, with one of the fastest citizenship timelines in the world.
– Safety and stability: Politically stable, though prone to natural disasters like cyclones.
– Education: Education is limited, with most expats sending children abroad for university. Some English- and French-language schools are available locally.
– Healthcare: Healthcare facilities are basic, and serious treatments usually require travel to Australia or New Zealand.
– Cost of living: Moderate to high. A single expat spends around $1,500 per month, depending on location.
– Average salary: Around $1,200 per month. Most expats work remotely.
– Taxes: Vanuatu has no personal income, wealth, or inheritance taxes.
– Residency and citizenship: The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment for Russian citizens grants a passport in just 2 to 3 months through a government donation starting at $130,000.
– Education: Education is limited, with most expats sending children abroad for university. Some English- and French-language schools are available locally.
– Healthcare: Healthcare facilities are basic, and serious treatments usually require travel to Australia or New Zealand.
– Cost of living: Moderate to high. A single expat spends around $1,500 per month, depending on location.
– Average salary: Around $1,200 per month. Most expats work remotely.
– Taxes: Vanuatu has no personal income, wealth, or inheritance taxes.
– Residency and citizenship: The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment for Russian citizens grants a passport in just 2 to 3 months through a government donation starting at $130,000.
07/
Canada: Entrepreneurial Opportunities and High Living Standards
Canada appeals to Russians seeking safety, stability, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver have active Russian-speaking communities.
– Safety and stability: Canada consistently ranks among the safest countries globally, sharing the number 14 rank (out of 163 countries) with the Netherlands.
– Education: Canada consistently ranks in the top 10 globally for education (OECD PISA). Russian children benefit from world-class universities like Toronto and McGill.
– Healthcare: Public healthcare is universal. Healthcare in Canada scores at the high end of accessibility and quality.
– Cost of living: High. A single expat spends over $3,000 per month in major cities.
– Average salary: Around $3,200 per month, with higher earnings in IT, healthcare, and engineering.
– Taxes: Canada applies progressive federal and provincial taxes, with top rates around 33%.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians can apply for the Canada Start-Up Visa Program, which grants permanent residency to entrepreneurs supported by designated organizations. Other options include Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs. Citizenship is possible after 3 years of permanent residency.
– Education: Canada consistently ranks in the top 10 globally for education (OECD PISA). Russian children benefit from world-class universities like Toronto and McGill.
– Healthcare: Public healthcare is universal. Healthcare in Canada scores at the high end of accessibility and quality.
– Cost of living: High. A single expat spends over $3,000 per month in major cities.
– Average salary: Around $3,200 per month, with higher earnings in IT, healthcare, and engineering.
– Taxes: Canada applies progressive federal and provincial taxes, with top rates around 33%.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians can apply for the Canada Start-Up Visa Program, which grants permanent residency to entrepreneurs supported by designated organizations. Other options include Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs. Citizenship is possible after 3 years of permanent residency.
08/
Portugal: Safe and Affordable EU Residency
Portugal is admired for its Atlantic climate, affordable lifestyle, and high safety ratings. Lisbon and Porto are especially popular among expats.
– Safety and stability: Portugal ranks among the safest countries in the EU and is politically stable.
– Education: Portugal offers free public education and reputable international schools, especially in Lisbon. Universities such as the University of Lisbon are globally ranked.
– Healthcare: Portugal’s National Health Service (SNS) provides universal coverage. GIU notes Portugal as one of Europe’s most cost-efficient healthcare systems.
– Cost of living: Moderate. A single expat spends $1,600 to $2,000 per month.
– Average salary: Around €1,044.93 (approximately US $1219,99) as per data from Numbeo. Tourism, services, and IT are strong sectors.
– Taxes: Portugal applies a progressive tax system with rates up to 48%. Global Citizen Solutions’ GIU highlights that Portugal remains one of Europe’s more cost-efficient destinations, where the overall tax burden is offset by affordable living costs, strong public services, and competitive healthcare access.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians may still be eligible on a case-by-case basis for the Portugal Golden Visa for Russian investors, which offers residency by investing in approved funds or job creation. Other routes include the Portugal D7 Visa for passive income holders and the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa. Citizenship is available after 5 years of residence.
– Education: Portugal offers free public education and reputable international schools, especially in Lisbon. Universities such as the University of Lisbon are globally ranked.
– Healthcare: Portugal’s National Health Service (SNS) provides universal coverage. GIU notes Portugal as one of Europe’s most cost-efficient healthcare systems.
– Cost of living: Moderate. A single expat spends $1,600 to $2,000 per month.
– Average salary: Around €1,044.93 (approximately US $1219,99) as per data from Numbeo. Tourism, services, and IT are strong sectors.
– Taxes: Portugal applies a progressive tax system with rates up to 48%. Global Citizen Solutions’ GIU highlights that Portugal remains one of Europe’s more cost-efficient destinations, where the overall tax burden is offset by affordable living costs, strong public services, and competitive healthcare access.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians may still be eligible on a case-by-case basis for the Portugal Golden Visa for Russian investors, which offers residency by investing in approved funds or job creation. Other routes include the Portugal D7 Visa for passive income holders and the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa. Citizenship is available after 5 years of residence.
Russian citizens looking for EU residency can benefit from the Portugal Golden Visa, with citizenship possible in five years.
09/
Greece: Mediterranean Lifestyle and EU Residency
Greece combines warm weather, historic charm, and relatively low costs compared to other EU countries. Russians often choose Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete.
– Safety and stability: Greece is politically stable and ranks mid-range on the Global Peace Index.
– Education: Greece offers public universities with low tuition for EU residents and several private English-language schools.
– Healthcare: Greece provides universal healthcare through the ESY system, supplemented by private options for faster service.
– Cost of living: Affordable compared to Western Europe. A single expat spends $1,200 to $1,500 per month.
– Average salary: Around $1,100 per month. Tourism, shipping, and IT are the most active industries.
– Taxes: Greece applies progressive taxes up to 44%, but special regimes exist for foreign residents.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians may be eligible on a case-by-case basis for the Greece Golden Visa, which grants permanent residency through real estate investment starting at €250,000. Other routes include the digital nomad visa and retirement visa. Citizenship is possible after 7 years of residence.
– Education: Greece offers public universities with low tuition for EU residents and several private English-language schools.
– Healthcare: Greece provides universal healthcare through the ESY system, supplemented by private options for faster service.
– Cost of living: Affordable compared to Western Europe. A single expat spends $1,200 to $1,500 per month.
– Average salary: Around $1,100 per month. Tourism, shipping, and IT are the most active industries.
– Taxes: Greece applies progressive taxes up to 44%, but special regimes exist for foreign residents.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians may be eligible on a case-by-case basis for the Greece Golden Visa, which grants permanent residency through real estate investment starting at €250,000. Other routes include the digital nomad visa and retirement visa. Citizenship is possible after 7 years of residence.
10/
Panama: Tropical Living with Long-Term Security
Panama attracts Russians with its Qualified Investor Visa, dollarized economy, and strong banking sector.
– Safety and stability: Panama is politically stable and has a reputation as a secure regional hub.
– Education: Panama offers American-curriculum international schools in Panama City, making it attractive for Russian families.
– Healthcare: The country has modern hospitals accredited by U.S. standards. Private care is affordable compared to North America.
– Cost of living: Moderate. A single expat spends $1,500 to $1,800 per month in Panama City.
– Average salary: Around $1,200 per month. Many expats work remotely or in finance and logistics.
– Taxes: Panama follows a territorial taxation system, taxing only locally retrieved income.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians can apply for the Panama Qualified Investor Visa (also known as the Panama Residency by Investment program), which grants permanent residence from day one with investments starting at $300,000. Other options include professional and retiree visas. Citizenship is possible after 5 years of residence.
– Education: Panama offers American-curriculum international schools in Panama City, making it attractive for Russian families.
– Healthcare: The country has modern hospitals accredited by U.S. standards. Private care is affordable compared to North America.
– Cost of living: Moderate. A single expat spends $1,500 to $1,800 per month in Panama City.
– Average salary: Around $1,200 per month. Many expats work remotely or in finance and logistics.
– Taxes: Panama follows a territorial taxation system, taxing only locally retrieved income.
– Residency and citizenship: Russians can apply for the Panama Qualified Investor Visa (also known as the Panama Residency by Investment program), which grants permanent residence from day one with investments starting at $300,000. Other options include professional and retiree visas. Citizenship is possible after 5 years of residence.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm that helps individuals find the right residency or citizenship by investment program to achieve their goals of becoming global citizens.
With offices worldwide and an experienced, multilingual team, we have supported hundreds of clients in securing citizenship, residence visas, and property investments, while helping them diversify their portfolios.
For Russian nationals, we offer dedicated support through our Russian-speaking consultants, ensuring clear communication and guidance every step of the way. We understand the unique challenges Russian citizens face in today’s landscape, and our team provides personalized guidance in line with international compliance practices, prioritizing programs with dual citizenship opportunities and simplified banking requirements.
At Global Citizen Solutions, we go beyond application assistance, offering comprehensive, localized support to help you achieve your long-term residency, citizenship, and investment goals with confidence
