Guide
Work visa and work permit
For visa nationals such as Indian citizens, legal work in Russia means two things: a work visa and a work permit. Both are arranged through your employer.
Not an official government website. MigraForma is a private reference service.
What the employer does
The employer obtains permission to hire foreign workers (unless exempt), applies for your work permit and requests an invitation for a work visa. Since 26 July 2026 the state fee for a work permit is 5,000 roubles and for an invitation 8,000 roubles.
What you do
Apply for a work visa at a Russian consulate or visa centre with the invitation. After arrival, collect your work permit, get registered within 7 working days, complete fingerprinting within 30 days and the medical exam within 30 days of entry.
Visa extension
The first work visa is usually short; the employer applies to extend it in line with your work permit.
Changing jobs
A work permit is tied to the employer. Changing jobs usually means new documents — discuss it before resigning.
Related pages
Frequently asked questions
Can I come on a tourist visa and then get a work permit?
No, you need a work visa issued for employment.
Who applies for the work permit?
The employer.
Is there a faster option?
Highly qualified specialist status, if your salary meets the threshold.
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.