How to obtain Russian permanent residency?
To obtain Russian permanent residency, you must legally reside in Russia with a valid Russian temporary residence permit for at least two years (except for Belarusians, Turkmen refugees, and those entering on a Highly Skilled Migrant visa, who are entitled to a permanent residence permit upon entry).
Permanent residency in Russia is often reserved for individuals in the country on a long-term visa, such as a Russian work visa. There are government quotas in place for temporary residency cards, and some categories of foreign immigrants are prioritized.
Who can get a Russian passport or Russian permanent residency?
To obtain Russian citizenship or permanent residency, you must meet specific criteria. The Russian government has established various categories of foreign nationals eligible for foreign citizenship or permanent residency in Russia. Let’s discuss Russian permanent residency first and then move on to Russian citizenship.
Russian Permanent Residency
A permanent residence permit in Russia is available to foreign nationals who meet one of the following criteria set by Russian law:
- The foreign national is a relative of a Russian citizen, such as a spouse, parent, or child
- A foreign national who has lived in Russia continuously on a temporary residency visa for at least two years
- A foreign national who has invested at least 10 million rubles (approximately $124,791) in the Russian economy
- A foreign national who has graduated from a Russian university or has completed a vocational training program in Russia
- A foreign national recognized as a refugee or someone in need of additional protection
Russian Citizenship
To become a Russian citizen, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be born on Russian soil to parents who are Russian citizens or permanent residents
- Be a foreign national who has lived in Russia continuously for at least five years on a temporary residency permit
- Be a foreign national who has renounced the citizenship of their home country, except for Turkmenistan and Tajikistan, because they have an intergovernmental agreement in place.
- Be a foreign national with a Russian spouse who has lived in Russia for at least three years on a temporary residency permit
- Be a foreign national with a child who is a Russian citizen and has lived in Russia for at least three years on a temporary residency permit
- Be a foreign national who has invested at least 10 million rubles (approximately $124,791) in a Russian company that has been operating for at least three years and paid 6 million rubles in taxes
Differences Between Russian Citizenship and Russian Permanent Residency
The main difference between Russian citizenship and a permanent residency permit is the level of rights and benefits that each provides. Russian citizens have more rights and privileges than permanent residents. For example, Russian citizens can vote and run for political office, while permanent residents are not able to do so.
Another difference is that Russian citizenship cannot be revoked except in cases where the citizenship was obtained through fraud or deception. In contrast, permanent residency can be revoked if the individual fails to meet the requirements or the person engages in criminal activity.
Applying for a Russian Temporary Residence Permit
You can live and work in Russia for three years with a temporary residence permit. After living in Russia on a temporary residence permit for at least two years, you can apply for permanent residency. The permanent residency permit is valid for five years and can be renewed indefinitely.
To apply for a temporary residency permit, submit the following documents to the Ministry of Internal Affairs:
- A completed application form
- A valid passport with a Russian visa
- A certificate of HIV-negative status
- A medical certificate stating that you do not have any infectious diseases
- Proof of financial support (such as bank statements or a job offer)
- A rental agreement or proof of ownership of a residence in Russia
- A police clearance certificate from your home country
Russian Citizenship Requirements
The Ministry of Internal Affairs is responsible for issuing Russian passports and residency permits. You can choose the citizenship pathway that aligns with the Russian citizenship requirements and apply with your documents to The Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Russian citizenship by birth
If you were born on Russian soil to parents who are Russian citizens or permanent residents, you are automatically granted Russian citizenship.
Russian citizenship by naturalization (common process)
You can apply for naturalization if you do not qualify for Russian citizenship by birth. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must have lived in Russia for at least five years on a permanent residency permit.
- You must have a clean criminal record.
- You must be fluent in Russian.
- You must have knowledge of Russian history, culture, and the Constitution.
- You must have a stable source of income and support yourself and your family.
To apply for Russian citizenship by naturalization, you- a foreign citizen, must submit the following documents to the Ministry of Internal Affairs:
- A completed application form
- A valid passport with a Russian visa
- A certificate of HIV-negative status
- A medical certificate stating that you do not have any infectious diseases
- Proof of financial support (such as bank statements or a job offer)
- A rental agreement or proof of ownership of a residence in Russia
- A police clearance certificate from your home country
- A certificate of Russian language proficiency
Russian citizenship by naturalization (simplified process)
If you meet specific criteria, you may be eligible for the simplified process for obtaining Russian citizenship. This process is available to foreign citizens who meet one of the following criteria:
- Foreign nationals who have served in the Russian military
- Foreign citizens who have made a significant contribution to the Russian economy, culture, or science
- Foreign nationals who are recognized as native speakers of Russian
The requirements for the simplified process are less stringent than the standard process. For example, the residency requirement is reduced to three years instead of five to acquire Russian citizenship through naturalization, and the language requirement may be waived.
Restoration of citizenship for former Russian citizens
If you previously had a Russian nationality and gave up your previous citizenship, you may be able to restore your citizenship. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have voluntarily given up your Russian nationality
- You must be fluent in Russian
- You must have knowledge of Russian history, culture, and the Constitution
- You must not have committed any crimes that would disqualify you from obtaining citizenship
To apply for restoration of citizenship, you must submit the following documents to the Ministry of Internal Affairs:
- A completed application form
- A copy of your previous Russian passport or citizenship certificate
- A certificate of Russian language proficiency
- A certificate of knowledge of Russian history, culture, and the constitution
Applying for Russian Citizenship
To apply for Russian nationality, you must submit your application to the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The application process can take several months to complete, and you will be required to attend an interview and take a test on Russian history, culture, and the Constitution.
Russian Citizenship Costs
The cost of obtaining Russian citizenship or permanent residency varies depending on the type of document and the specific requirements. The application fee for a short-term passport that lasts for five years is approximately $25, while the application fee for Russian citizenship is approximately $56.
Dual Nationality in Russia
Dual citizenship in Russia is a complicated topic. On the one hand, Russia legally recognizes dual citizenship, but on the other hand, they only recognize dual citizenship treaties with Turkmenistan and Tajikistan. Russia has an intergovernmental agreement signed with Turkmenistan and Tajikistan that can be considered for dual citizenship along with Russian citizenship. However, the state only recognizes these countries’ dual citizens as Russian citizens. However, due to recent legislative amendments, Russian nationals gaining dual nationality abroad must notify their local Ministry of Internal Affairs office within 60 days.
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining Russian citizenship or permanent residency can be lengthy and complex, but it is possible if you meet the eligibility requirements and follow the application procedures. Whether you are interested in living in Russia for work, study, or personal reasons, it is crucial to research and understands the requirements and regulations before beginning the application process.
It is also important to note that the political situation in Russia can affect the application process for citizenship or permanent residency.
For example, in 2014, Russia passed a law that made it easier for individuals from Ukraine to obtain Russian citizenship. However, this law was controversial and caused tension between the two countries.
Additionally, it is crucial to consider the cultural and social differences between Russia and your home country before applying for citizenship or permanent residency. Russia’s unique culture and way of life may be unfamiliar to individuals from a foreign country or other parts of the world. It is essential to be prepared for these differences and have a strong mindset for your new life ahead.
How Global Citizen Solutions Can Help
Expats and foreign investors can encounter many difficulties when applying for second citizenship and a second passport, which is why it is worthwhile to have an expert on hand to provide personalized Russian citizenship assistance throughout the application process.
Our specialists can help you with the following:
- Minimize the visits you have to make to the designated country
- Have someone who works solely on your behalf
- Reduce the hassle associated with putting your application together
- Acquire insider knowledge from someone with years of experience in the market
Let’s get you moving forward in your quest to obtain Russian citizenship and a Russian passport. Get in touch with us to book a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Russian Citizenship
How can I get citizenship in Russia?
To obtain Russian citizenship, you can do so through birth, naturalization, or restoration of citizenship for former Russian citizens.
Does Russia allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Russia allows foreign citizens with dual citizenship with only Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.
How to renounce Russian citizenship?
To renounce Russian citizenship, you must submit an application to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, provide proof of another citizenship or the right to obtain it and pay a fee.
What do you need to get Russian citizenship?
To get Russian citizenship, you typically need to meet residency requirements, have a good command of the Russian language, pass a test on Russian history and law, and provide various documents, including a birth certificate and passport.
How to get US citizenship for a Russian spouse?
To get US citizenship for a Russian spouse, the spouse must first obtain a green card and meet residency requirements. They can then apply for US citizenship after meeting additional eligibility criteria, such as passing an English and civics test.
