Work visas
Russian Work Visa (ordinary employment)
An employment visa for foreign nationals with a job offer and work permit from a Russian employer, converted to a longer multiple-entry visa after arrival.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Work-permit and work-visa validity (up to 1 year), quota rules and conversion steps were not confirmed on an official page during research; verify current rules with the MVD/GUVM and MFA.
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
- Work (employment) visa
- Route type
- Employment visa tied to a work permit
- Entries
- Single entry initially, converted to multiple entry after arrival
- Validity
- Aligned to the work permit, commonly up to 1 year and renewable
- Quota
- Regular positions are subject to the foreign-labour quota
- Issued by
- MFA consulate (visa) on the basis of an MVD work permit and invitation
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals with a confirmed job offer from a Russian employer.
- Employers who have obtained permission to engage foreign workers and a work permit for the employee.
Requirements
- An employer-obtained work permit and work-visa invitation.
- A valid passport, application form and photo.
- Medical certificates (including for specified conditions) as required.
- Compliance with the foreign-labour quota for non-exempt positions.
How to apply
- Employer obtains permission to hire and the employee's work permit from the MVD.
- Employer arranges the work-visa invitation.
- Employee applies for the single-entry work visa at a Russian consulate.
- After arrival, convert the visa to a multiple-entry visa aligned with the work permit.
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.