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Residence & citizenship

Russian Permanent Residence Permit

A long-term residence permit allowing indefinite residence in Russia and forming the basis for citizenship.

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Under review — check current rules

The qualifying period before permanent residence, its validity/renewal terms and recent temporary conditions were not confirmed on an official page during research; verify with the MVD/GUVM.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Russia government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Permanent Residence Permit (vid na zhitelstvo)
Route type
Long-term / indefinite residence permit
Issued by
Main Directorate for Migration Affairs (GUVM MVD)
Leads to
Eligibility for citizenship after the qualifying residence period
Validity
Indefinite (termless) since November 2019
Date/term not verified against the official МВД/GUVM source in this pass
Prerequisite
Usually held an RVP first (some categories may apply without one)
Approx. 8-month RVP threshold not verified against an official source in this pass
Where to apply
Local MVD territorial migration office (GUVM)
Ongoing obligation
Annual notification confirming residence

Who it is for

  • Foreign nationals who have held a temporary residence permit for the qualifying period.
  • Those intending to remain in Russia indefinitely and, in time, apply for citizenship.

What you can do

  • Live in Russia long term and work without a separate work permit.
  • Travel in and out of Russia freely.
  • Build the continuous residence needed to apply for citizenship.

Requirements

  • You normally need to have held a Temporary Residence Permit (RVP) before applying — commonly you can apply after about eight months on the RVP.
  • Certain categories (for example highly qualified specialists, recognised native Russian speakers, and Belarusian citizens) may apply without first holding an RVP.
  • You must pass a test of Russian language, history and basic law, unless you qualify for an exemption.
  • You must provide medical certificates (including an HIV certificate) and evidence of income or means of support.
  • There must be no criminal or immigration grounds for refusal.

How to apply

  • Confirm your eligibility — sufficient time on an RVP, or a category that allows applying without one.
  • Pass the Russian language, history and law exam, or obtain an exemption.
  • Complete the required medical examinations.
  • Submit the application with photos and supporting documents to your local MVD migration office (GUVM).
  • Pay the state duty.
  • Submit the annual residence-confirmation notification each year after you receive the permit.

Documents you may need

  • Application form and photos, 35 x 45 mm
  • Passport with a notarised Russian translation
  • Proof of income or means of support
  • Medical certificates and HIV certificate
  • Russian language/history/law certificate, or proof of exemption

Frequently asked questions

  • Since November 2019 the permanent residence permit (VNZh) is issued without an expiry date, so it is effectively termless. You must still submit an annual notification confirming that you continue to live in Russia.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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