Guide
Working while studying
International students can work in Russia in certain cases without a separate work permit. The details depend on your form of study and status, so check before you accept a job.
Not an official government website. MigraForma is a private reference service.
Full-time students
Russian law allows full-time students of state-accredited programmes to work without a work permit in a number of situations. The employer must notify the migration authority about hiring a foreign student within three working days.
Students on a visa
For students who entered on a visa, the rules are narrower — for example, work during holidays or in your free time at your own university. Confirm with your international office what applies to you before signing a contract.
Things to avoid
- working for cash without a contract;
- jobs that clash with your study schedule — skipping classes can cost you your status;
- courier or delivery jobs that require a patent or permit you do not have.
Related pages
Frequently asked questions
Do students need a work permit?
Full-time students of accredited programmes can work without one in certain cases.
Does the employer have to report it?
Yes, within three working days.
Can I work full-time?
Your studies must come first; check limits with your university.
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.