Highly Qualified Specialist Work Visa
Embassy required
- Processing time
- Faster than standard work visa
- Fee
- $150-$250 USD
- Validity
- Up to 3 years
- Entry
- Multiple entry
New Skilled Visa Programme effective April 15, 2026. For professionals in science, business, industry, education, culture, and sports. Salary threshold of RUB 1 million required. No Russian language test or immigration quota. Pathway to 3-year temporary residency or permanent residency. Family members can obtain visas.
Eligibility
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Employment
Must have job offer in high-value sector with minimum annual salary of RUB 1 million.
Required status: Employment in science, business, industry, education, culture, or sports with salary ≥ RUB 1,000,000/year
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Purpose of visit
For highly skilled professionals in designated sectors.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: Passport-size color photo
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Invitation letter
Host requirements: Work invitation from Russian employer for highly qualified position
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Highly Qualified Specialist Visa Application; Form url: https://visa.kdmid.ru/
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Professional license
Accepted licenses: Professional qualifications and credentials for specialized field; Must be translated: Yes
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Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes
How to apply
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Online application
Submit qualifications and documents digitally through authorized agency from home country.
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Processing wait
Agency reviews application and qualifications.
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Document submission
If approved, submit documents at Russian embassy/consulate for business visa.
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Fee payment
Pay visa fee.
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Visa collection
Receive one-year business visa with immediate work rights.