Russia is set to introduce a major immigration reform that could significantly benefit skilled professionals from India. Starting April next year, Moscow will roll out a new Skill Visa programme aimed at attracting qualified foreign workers and offering them a clearer route to long-term residency. The move is being widely viewed as a boost to India–Russia mobility and employment cooperation.
Putin Approves Skill Visa Ahead of India Visit
The decision gained momentum after Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the order approving the Skill Visa shortly before his recent state visit to India for a bilateral summit. The programme aligns with mobility agreements signed by both countries and reflects Russia’s intent to strengthen workforce collaboration with trusted partners like India.
Officials see the initiative as part of a broader strategy to address skill shortages across key sectors of the Russian economy.
No Language Test, No Immigration Quota
One of the most attractive aspects of the Skill Visa is the removal of traditional barriers. Eligible foreign professionals will not be required to clear Russian-language exams or fall under existing immigration quotas.
The visa is open to professionals across a wide range of fields, including science, economics, industry, education, culture, business, and sports. This flexibility is expected to draw strong interest from Indian engineers, researchers, educators, and business specialists.
Temporary Residency With a Direct PR Route
Under the new framework, successful applicants will be granted three years of temporary residency. Professionals working in designated priority sectors will be eligible to apply directly for permanent residencymaking the programme especially appealing for those seeking long-term settlement.
This structure offers far more stability compared to short-term work visas used in many countries.
Two-Step Application Process Explained
The Skill Visa follows a two-stage application model. In the first step, candidates apply to a designated agency that evaluates their professional suitability. Once approved, applicants move to the second stage, where they submit residency applications to Russian immigration authorities.
Approval from the agency remains valid for one year, within which the applicant must complete immigration formalities.
Applications can be submitted digitally from the applicant’s home country. After initial clearance, applicants and their families receive a one-year business visaenabling them to travel to Russia and complete residency paperwork.
Work Allowed While Residency Is Processed
A major relief for applicants is that they can begin working immediately in Russia even while their residency application is under review. No separate work permit is required, reducing delays and uncertainty.
Officials expect most applications to be processed within 30 daysmaking the programme fast, flexible, and highly attractive for skilled Indian professionals.
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