How to move to Russia with a ‘talent visa’ (STEP-BY-STEP)
Promising scientists, athletes, artists and entrepreneurs can now live and work in Russia by obtaining the necessary documents under a simplified procedure.
On April 15, 2026, Decree No. 883, aimed at attracting outstanding foreign specialists – a process known as impatriation – came into force in Russia. This program is also known as the "talent visa", as it allows foreigners with achievements in sports, science, culture and business to move to Russia under a simplified procedure.
The program also has an official website – ‘Time to Live in Russia’. It’s available in Russian, English, French, Italian and German.
What the impatriation program offers
Foreigners who wish to move to Russia under this program can obtain a temporary residence permit (TRP) without quota restrictions and without taking Russian language exams. Alternatively, they can apply directly for a permanent residence permit (PRP), skipping the TRP stage.
The difference is that a temporary residence permit is only valid in a specific region, while for a permanent residence permit, you still need to pass exams. Also, a temporary residence permit is issued for a maximum of three years, whereas a permanent residence permit has no expiration date.
After obtaining a permanent residence permit, you can then apply for Russian citizenship.
Foreigners from any country and of any age are eligible. Family members also receive migration benefits.
Who can benefit from this program
Decree No. 883 establishes three main criteria:
1. Having achievements in one of the key areas. These include scientific and technological development, manufacturing, sports, creative industries and the cultural and humanitarian sphere. Academic achievements also count.
2. The applicant has made a significant contribution to the development of Russia's economy, society or security.
3. Possessing a profession or skills that are in high demand in Russia.
To confirm their qualifications and/or demonstrate achievements, a candidate may:
1. Hold a patent for an invention or industrial design; be a laureate of a Russian or foreign prize for outstanding achievements in science and technology; hold an academic degree; or work at a Russian state scientific organization.
2. Be a founder of a small or medium-sized business with an annual income of at least 10 million rubles (approx. $130,000). This could be a hotel, a public catering establishment, manufacturing, information and communications activities or scientific and technical activities.
3. Be a prize winner at the Olympic Games, World or European Championships or other professional sports competitions.
4. Be a laureate of a Russian or foreign prize in the field of culture, literature and arts. Work for a Russian government organization in the field of culture.
5. Be a qualified specialist in the field of clothing design, design, architecture, gastronomy, IT, public relations or other creative industries.
6. Successfully complete a higher education program at a university ranked in the Top 20 of one of the following rankings: Academic Ranking of World Universities, QS World University Rankings, or Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Alternatively, the university may be in the top 100 positions, but the average grade must be at least 75% of the maximum.
7. Have at least five years of work experience in certain industrial sectors: transportation, tourism, construction, telecommunications, energy and others. See the decree for more details.
How to participate in the program
First, you need to submit an application using the official website. In your application, you will need to describe your achievements in detail and attach supporting documents.
A program operator will contact you and conduct an online interview: as stated on the program's website, you will need to verbally describe your achievements and successes.
Your application will be reviewed for up to 125 days and, if approved, your documents will be sent to the Ministry of Internal Affairs for review. The Ministry of Internal Affairs will issue documents confirming your impatriant status.
If you need a visa, you can submit these documents to the Russian Embassy and receive a multiple-entry business visa valid for one year.
If you do not need a visa and are already in Russia, you can submit your documents for a temporary or permanent residence permit locally.
Each impatriant will have their own personal manager who will assist you at all stages, from obtaining a visa to finding housing.
