Questions about moving to the Russian Federation and obtaining permanent residence are relevant both to foreign nationals and to compatriots wishing to return to their homeland. Inquiries about the necessary conditions and the possibility of staying legally in the country are received every day.

Relocation to Russia is a process that may be prompted by various reasons: seeking better living conditions, work, study, or family reunification.

In this article, we will look at the main ways to relocate to Russia legally, as well as the list of documents required to obtain one status or another.

TRP, (Temporary Residence Permit) is a document that allows foreign nationals to live in Russia temporarily for up to three years. Obtaining a TRP is the first step toward obtaining a residence permit. There are several grounds for obtaining a TRP.
TRP under the quota
Each year, the Russian government sets a quota for issuing TRPs to foreign nationals. The quota is divided into categories such as workers, students, and others. To obtain a TRP under the quota, you need to gather a set of documents and submit it, along with an application, to the migration authorities of the Russian Federation.

Who can use the TRP quota?

Any foreign national who is legally present in the Russian Federation and plans to apply for a temporary residence permit (TRP) must apply for a quota in their chosen region if they do not have grounds to obtain a TRP through the simplified procedure.

Restrictions and quota allocation:

The number of quotas is limited and they are allocated among the regions of the Russian Federation in accordance with established limits.

Eligibility criteria:

Foreign nationals who meet the criteria established for the specific region where the application is submitted may apply for a quota.

TRP without a quota
Some categories of people can obtain a TRP without being subject to the quota. These include:

Close relatives of Russian citizens
Foreign nationals with high qualifications or in-demand professions.
People who have been granted refugee status or temporary asylum.
Foreign nationals from unfriendly countries who share traditional values under Decree No. 702.
Those relocating to the Russian Federation under the State Program for Voluntary Resettlement

Who can use this?

– Foreign nationals and stateless persons who meet the conditions for obtaining a TRP without being subject to a quota. More detailed information is available here: Temporary Stay Permit

Residence permit— is a document that grants the right to permanent residence in Russia and the ability to work without additional permits.

To obtain a residence permit, several conditions must be met:

Have lived in Russia with a TRP for at least one year.
Confirm that you have a lawful source of income.
Provide documents confirming knowledge of the Russian language, Russian history, and the basics of legislation, unless there are grounds for exemption from the exam.
Other possible requirements
Become a participant in the State Resettlement Program as a repatriate
Hold citizenship of certain countries

*Requirements may vary depending on the region and the method of obtaining status

Who can use this?

Foreign nationals and stateless persons who meet the eligibility conditions and are entitled to use the simplified procedure for obtaining a residence permit (RP).

We will discuss this issue in more detail here: Residence permit

Return of Russian citizens.

Who can use this?

Russian citizens and persons who have undergone verification of their Russian citizenship and its restoration.

Under the State Program for the Resettlement of Compatriots.
Who can use this?
Russian citizens and foreign nationals participating in the State Resettlement Program, and their family members

Follow the link to the State Resettlement Program category

Under the Agreement – (Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the country of residence on regulating the resettlement process and protecting the rights of resettlers)

Who can use this? – applicants (citizens and non-citizens) from certain countries, who have a corresponding agreement with the Russian Federation
Follow the link to the Agreement category

People who have been granted status may also relocate to or remain in the Russian Federation Political asylum
Who is eligible?
Political asylum may be sought by people who are subjected to personal persecution in their home country because of their beliefs, race, religion, nationality, etc. People who have sought protection from their own state but have not received legal assistance may also apply for asylum.
Follow the link to the Political Asylum category

People who have been granted temporary asylum may also relocate to or remain in the Russian Federation
Who is eligible?
Temporary asylum may be granted to a foreign citizen or stateless person if they:

1) have grounds for recognition as a refugee but limit their request to a written application asking for the opportunity to stay temporarily in the territory of the Russian Federation;

2) do not have grounds for recognition as a refugee under the circumstances provided for by this Federal Law, but for humanitarian reasons cannot be expelled (deported) from the territory of the Russian Federation.

Follow the link to the Temporary Asylum category

The process of relocating to Russia can be difficult and require time and effort. However, by following the established rules and requirements, foreign citizens and stateless persons can successfully obtain a temporary residence permit (TRP), a residence permit (RP), and even citizenship of the Russian Federation, as well as realize their plans for life in the country. Before starting the process, it is important to carefully study all the conditions and prepare the necessary documents to avoid possible difficulties.

Additional information:

What should you do before moving?
Follow the link to the Moving Preparation category

Crossing the border and customs, and customs clearance of personal belongings and vehicles
Follow the link to the Border and Customs category

What should you do after moving?
Follow the link to the After Moving category

Information about taking the exam for a TRP/residence permit/citizenship
Follow the link to the Exam category

Checking whether you have citizenship.
Follow the link to the category Consulates / Citizenship check

Exchanging a driver's license.
Follow the link to the Driver's License category

Grounds for Relocation

Grounds for Relocation

Employment assistance