How to Work and Immigrate to Russia as a Software Engineer?

Is Software Engineering In-demand in Russia?

Generally, software engineering is one of the most in-demand fields worldwide, and Russia is no exception. As we mentioned, Russia is one of the hubs of technology industries in the world, which creates a suitable platform for work in software engineering. However, Learning in-demand skills will differentiate you from other engineers and increase your chances of employment and good income.

Some software skills that are in demand in Russia include:

• Java
• Python
• JavaScript
• C++
• Data Science
• Cybersecurity
• Cloud Computing
• DevOps
• Mobile App Development
• Blockchain

How to Immigrate to Russia as a Software Engineer?

To immigrate to Russia as a software engineer and work in this country, you need to follow the general process below:

Determine Your Eligibility

Eligibility criteria for immigrating to Russia as a software engineer:

• You need a bachelor’s degree or higher.
• You need a job offer from an employer in Russia. (Your employer is often your sponsor.)
• Having a clean criminal record is mandatory.
• Fluency in the Russian language is an advantage.
• Proficiency in in-demand categories is preferred.
• Some visas require professional experience.
• Some visas require proof of financial stability.
• Some visas have age restrictions and health checks.
• Learn about the requirements for temporary and permanent residence.

Choose Your Suitable Visa Type

You must apply for a visa to work as a software engineer in Russia. The most common types are the Work Visa (Standard) and Highly Qualified Specialist (HQS) Visa.

Work Visa (Standard)

• Suitable for those who have a job offer from a Russian employer or company.
• This visa is issued for one year and can be renewed.
• A work permit and an official letter of invitation from the employer are required.

Highly Qualified Specialist (HQS) Visa

• Suitable for highly skilled people with specific qualifications and high salaries set by the Russian government.
• This visa is issued for up to 3 years and can be renewed.
• Offers tax benefits.

Find a Job

You need a job offer from a Russian employer. Look for job opportunities related to software engineering in Russia. Use job search websites such as HeadHunter and SuperJob, popular in Russia, or LinkedIn. Contact recruitment agencies such as Hays Russia, Antal Russia, and Kelly Services. You can also contact Russian companies directly. The employer must sponsor your visa.

Get a Job Offer

Once you have received a job offer from an employer, you must obtain an invitation letter or employment contract to support your visa application.

Job contracts should specify salary, compensation, hours of work, probationary period and duration of employment, benefits, responsibilities, etc. It’s important to ensure they address visa and work permit arrangements, which are usually written in Russian.

Learn the Language

Learning the Russian language varies depending on the job and location, and sometimes it is not necessary. Employers require different language levels, usually measured through recognized tests such as TOFRL or CEFR. Although learning Russian is not always a requirement, it is useful for everyday life and communication.

Apply for a Visa

The visa application process for Russia is very detailed. Here, we will briefly review the Russian work visa application procedures and required documents:

Visa Application Steps

1. Completing the visa application form. Fill out your visa application form accurately. The appropriate form is available on the website of the Russian embassy or consulate.
2. Gathering the required documents. Prepare all the required documents mentioned below.
   1. Passport
   2. Visa Application Form
   3. Passport-size Photo
   4. Visa Invitation
   5. Visa Application Fee
   6. Travel Itinerary
   7. Medical Insurance
   8. Health Certificate
   9. Criminal Record Check
   10. Proof of Finances
   11. Consular Fee Receipt
   12. Additional Documents
3. Paying visa fees. Visa application fees can vary depending on the type of visa and processing time; their payment is mandatory.
4. Making an appointment. Make an appointment with the Russian embassy or consulate to submit your application.
5. Submitting your application. Submit your application in person, through a visa center, or attend the appointment.
6. Biometrics. Some visa categories may require biometric data.
7. Visa processing. Visa processing time can vary; wait for your visa application to be processed and contact the embassy if you need more information or follow-up.
8. Visa issuance. After your visa is approved, you will receive a visa sticker affixed to your passport. Congratulations!
9. Traveling and registration. After receiving the visa, you can travel to Russia. Once you arrive, make sure you register your visa with the local authorities within a certain time frame.

Obtain Medical Insurance

You must obtain health insurance valid in Russia for the duration of your stay. Some valid health insurance providers in Russia suitable for software engineers include:

• Rosgosstrakh (RGS)
• Ingosstrakh
• VSK Insurance Company
• AlfaStrakhovanie
• SOGAZ Insurance Group
• Reso-Garantia
• Energogarant Insurance Company

Residence Registration

The process of registering Russian residence:

1. Timing. To avoid legal consequences, you must complete your residence registration within seven working days of your arrival in Russia.
2. Location. To complete the registration, visit the local migration authority or a post office in your place of residence.
3. Documents. Required documents include your passport, visa, migration card, and registration form.
4. Registration Form. Fill the requested information in the registration form accurately.
5. Migration Card. A migration card is important for the registration process. Make sure to get your migration card upon arrival.
6. Landlord Assistance. Your landlord must provide a letter confirming your right to reside at the address and a copy of your identification.
7. Registration Processing Time. It is usually processed instantly, and you will receive a stamp confirmation.
8. Updates. If you change your residence in Russia, don’t forget to re-register at your new address.

Work Permit and Patents

Your Russian employer is responsible for applying for a work permit, obtaining a work permit for you, initiating the patent application process, and paying the necessary fees. Also, they must submit the required documents, such as your job contract, passport, visa, and medical certificate (confirming that you do not have certain diseases), to the local branch of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs. It takes several weeks or more to receive the permits. After approval, you will receive the legal right to work in Russia. Work permits require periodic renewal and must be transferred when changing employers.

Renewal

Start the renewal process long before your current visa expires, as renewing your work visa in Russia can be long. Your employer plays an important role in this process. If you have a standard work visa, your employer must apply for a work permit renewal for you and also assist in extending your work visa.

Permanent Residence

Are you planning to get a permanent residence in Russia? You have to wait 5 years. In order to obtain permanent residence in Russia, you must live and work legally in this country for at least 5 years. Also, learn Russia’s history, language, and legal system because after you submit your application at a local branch of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, you must participate in tests that measure your information in these fields.

Also, after submitting your permanent residence application, your documents and records will be checked, and you may need to participate in an interview. After approval, you will be granted an indefinite residence and work permit in Russia. It usually needs to be renewed every 5 years.

How Much Does a Software Engineer Earn in Russia?

The salary of software engineers in Russia is varied and based on the person’s work experience and skills, the city of activity and company, etc. But in general, most of the salaries are in the following range:

• Lowest.51,700 RUB.
• Average.95,700 RUB.
• Highest.144,000 RUB.

Salary Review Based on Years of Work Experience

• Software engineers with less than 2 years of experience receive a salary of 60,000 RUB.
• Software engineers with an experience level between 2 and 5 years earn a salary of 75,800 RUB.
• If the experience level is between 5 and 10 years, then the expected salary is about 99,900 RUB.
• Software engineering professionals with expertise spans between 10 and 15 years get a salary equivalent to 118,000 RUB.
• The expected salary for software engineers with an experience level between 15 and 20 years is 130,000 RUB.
• Software engineers with more than 20 years of professional experience get a salary of 138,000 RUB.

As it was said, the salary varies from city to city. The best-paying cities for software engineers include:

• Moscow
• Petersburg
• Kazan
• Novosibirsk
• Yekaterinburg

How Much Does Living in Russia Cost?

Living in Russia is cheap compared to other countries. According to official figures, only about 12.3% of the population lives below the poverty line; however, The costs of living in Russia largely depend on people’s lifestyle and the city they live in. The most expensive cities are Moscow and Saint Petersburg, and the cheapest city is Novosibirsk.

Immigrate to Russia as a Software Engineer from America

To immigrate to Russia as a software engineer from the United States, you must receive a job offer from a Russian employer sponsoring your work visa application. Also, you should provide the required documents, including passport, visa application, and health insurance. You might consider getting a temporary residence permit for a long-term stay. Upon arrival, register with local authorities and be aware of tax obligations. Cultural compatibility is important, and learning some basics of Russian can be helpful; it is important to know the evolving immigration laws through the Russian embassy or consulate.

Can I Bring My Family When I Immigrate to Russia as a Software Engineer?

When you immigrate to Russia as a software engineer, you usually have the possibility to bring your family, your wife, and your children with you to Russia. Your family can apply for a visa and come to Russia if approved. You should consult with your employer and Russian authorities about this process and its specific requirements.

Conclusion

Did you prepare the required documents to immigrate to Russia as a software engineer?

Immigration to Russia as a software engineer is a smart choice due to many benefits, including job demand, the possibility of growth and learning, so prepare the things required to get a visa, which were explained step by step, and start a life full of excitement in Russia.

FAQs