Permanent Residence Permit in Russia: Rights and Opportunities
A permanent residence permit (VNJ) is a document that grants a foreign national the right to live permanently in Russia. With a VNJ, a person can freely move around the country and travel abroad, work legally, and access a range of social services.
What a Permanent Residence Permit Provides
Holders of a permanent residence permit (VNJ) in Russia enjoy a broad range of rights that bring their legal status close to that of Russian citizens.
First and foremost, a VNJ grants the right to reside permanently in the Russian Federation and to move freely within its territory—except for areas with restricted access, such as closed administrative-territorial entities and other zones with a special regime.
A foreign national with a VNJ may enter and leave Russia an unlimited number of times without needing visas or additional permits. It is sufficient to carry a valid passport and the residence permit.
Another major advantage is the ability to work in any region of the country without obtaining a work patent or work permit. This opens wide opportunities for professional development and employment.
Access to the healthcare system is also available to VNJ holders: they are entitled to obtain a compulsory medical insurance policy (OMS) and receive free medical care. This includes not only emergency treatment for injuries or acute conditions, but also planned medical care—except for certain types of illnesses specified by law.
Social security is another important benefit. VNJ holders have the right to receive various social benefits and to qualify for pensions in accordance with Russian legislation.
There are no restrictions in the field of education either: children of VNJ holders may attend Russian kindergartens and schools, while adults may enroll in universities and other educational institutions on equal terms.
Foreign nationals with a permanent residence permit are not subject to compulsory military service, but they may voluntarily sign a contract to serve in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.
In addition, VNJ holders are entitled to issue invitations for their close relatives to enter Russia, which simplifies their relocation and stay in the country.
Finally, a VNJ is an important step toward obtaining Russian citizenship. After meeting the statutory requirements (in particular, continuous residence in the country for a specified period), a VNJ holder may apply for citizenship of the Russian Federation.
Working with a Permanent Residence Permit
Obtaining a VNJ provides significant advantages for foreign nationals who plan to work in Russia. With a residence permit, finding employment is much easier: employers face far fewer bureaucratic requirements than when hiring visa-based foreign workers. This is because employers do not need to obtain additional permits or submit applications for the right to hire a foreign employee—none of this is required for VNJ holders.
Another important benefit is that a VNJ is valid throughout the entire territory of Russia. This means a person may work in any region of the country, regardless of where the permit was issued. There are no restrictions on professions or positions—VNJ holders may choose any job that matches their skills and qualifications.
In addition, employees with a VNJ are not counted toward quotas for foreign workers. In some industries, limits apply to the share of foreign employees, but VNJ holders are excluded from these calculations, which further simplifies hiring.
To be employed, a VNJ holder needs only a minimal set of documents: a passport, the permanent residence permit, proof of migration registration or residence registration, as well as a taxpayer identification number (INN) and a social insurance number (SNILS).
What Should VNJ Holders Keep in Mind?
There are certain restrictions:
- VNJ holders cannot vote in elections or hold public office;
- they are not subject to compulsory military service (but may serve under a contract);
- they cannot work in certain positions related to state security.
In addition, a VNJ holder must:
- notify the Ministry of Internal Affairs annually that they reside in Russia;
- comply with Russian law, including avoiding two or more administrative offenses within one year;
- observe the rule of not staying outside Russia for a total of more than six months in a calendar year (except in cases of serious illness, the death of a close relative, or work-related necessity);
- confirm an income level not lower than the minimum wage.
It should be noted that a VNJ may be revoked for a number of reasons, including those listed above.
How Long a Permanent Residence Permit Is Issued For
Since November 1, 2019, permanent residence permits in Russia have become indefinite for most foreign nationals. This change was intended to simplify life for those who plan to link their future with Russia for the long term. However, there are exceptions to this general rule.
Who Receives an Indefinite VNJ?
Most foreign nationals granted the right to permanent residence in Russia no longer need to worry about renewing their permit regularly. An indefinite VNJ reduces administrative burden and provides greater stability and confidence.
When Is a VNJ Still Time-Limited?
- Highly Qualified Specialists (HQS) and their family members
For this category, the validity period of the VNJ is tied to the work permit. In simple terms, the residence permit is valid for as long as the specialist is authorized to work.
However, after working in Russia for two years, an HQS and their family members may reapply for an indefinite VNJ. This policy encourages professionals to remain in the country long term.
-
Stateless persons
For individuals without citizenship of any country, a VNJ is issued for 10 years. This is due to the need to periodically confirm identity and the circumstances of residence. -
Electronic VNJ (card format)
If a foreign national chooses the modern electronic card format, its validity period is also limited to 10 years. This is a technical limitation related to updating the data carrier, not to a change in legal status.
Conclusion
A permanent residence permit is suitable for those who plan to settle in Russia for the long term but are not yet ready to renounce their original citizenship. Citizenship, in turn, is the choice for those who wish to fully integrate into the country’s social, political, and economic life.
Source