Guide
From India to Russia: start here
Indian citizens need a visa for Russia. Whether you come to study or to work, the process starts with an invitation from a Russian university or employer.
Not an official government website. MigraForma is a private reference service.
The short version
- You need a visa. The e-visa is single-entry, valid for up to 30 days, and not for study or work.
- Study: a student visa based on your university's invitation, later extended for up to a year at a time.
- Work: a work visa plus a work permit arranged by your employer — or highly qualified specialist (HQS) status.
- Registration: within 7 working days of arrival (90 days for HQS).
- Medical exam: within 30 days of entry if you work or stay longer than 90 days.
- Indian documents need an apostille and a notarised Russian translation.
Students
Workers
A patent (the work licence used by visa-free foreigners) is not available to Indian citizens, because they enter on a visa. You need a work visa and a work permit, or HQS status.
Before you fly
Related pages
Frequently asked questions
Can Indian citizens work in Russia on a patent?
No. A patent is only for visa-free foreigners. You need a work visa and work permit, or HQS status.
How long do I have to register?
Seven working days after arrival; your university or host files the notification.
Is there a Russian version of this page?
Yes — the Russian page for Indian citizens covers the same topics.
For reference only. MigraForma is a private service, not an official government website: we are not the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD), a multifunctional centre (MFC) or Gosuslugi, we do not submit documents and this is not legal advice. Rules change, so check them with the migration authorities before you apply. Information checked in October 2026.