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Russia Guides
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Russia

The world's largest country offering vast opportunities, rich culture, and unique Eurasian experiences

Moscow
Capital
146 million
Population
Russian Ruble (RUB)
Currency
Russian
Language

Expat Guides for Russia

Essential information organized by category to help you settle in Russia

🎓

Education

Schools & universities

💰

Finance

Banking & taxes

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Healthcare

Medical system

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Housing

Property & rentals

🌟

Lifestyle

Culture & social life

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Living

Daily essentials

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Moving

Relocation tips

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Working

Employment guide

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Directory

Contacts & resources

🌟Why Choose Russia?

Your Gateway to European Excellence

Discover what makes Russia the perfect destination for your next adventure

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World's largest country spanning 11 time zones
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Rich cultural heritage in literature, ballet, and arts
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Major energy and natural resources powerhouse
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Diverse landscapes from arctic tundra to subtropical regions
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Historic cities with UNESCO World Heritage sites
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Growing technology and innovation sectors
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Climate & Weather

Climate Type

Continental

Russia has diverse climates ranging from arctic tundra in the north to continental in most areas, with long, cold winters and short, warm summers.

☀️Summer Average
15-25°C (59-77°F)
❄️Winter Average
-10 to -30°C (14 to -22°F)

Seasonal Overview

Winter (December-February)
Long, harsh winters with heavy snow and extreme cold, especially in Siberia. Essential winter preparation required.
Spring (March-May)
Brief but beautiful spring with rapid snow melt and emerging greenery, ideal for experiencing nature's awakening.
Summer (June-August)
Short but warm summers perfect for outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring the vast countryside.
Autumn (September-November)
Crisp autumn with beautiful fall colors, harvest season, and preparation for the long winter ahead.
💰

Cost of Living

45/100
Cost Index
Relative to global average45/100

Russia offers very affordable living costs outside major cities, with Moscow being most expensive but still reasonable by international standards.

Housing
Varies dramatically by city and location, with Moscow commanding highest prices
₽25,000-150,000/month
Food & Dining
Excellent value for hearty local cuisine and international options in major cities
₽15,000-30,000/month
Transportation
Affordable and efficient public transport systems in major cities
₽1,600-2,200/month
Healthcare
Basic healthcare subsidized, private insurance recommended for expats
₽5,000-15,000/month
Utilities
Heating costs significant in winter, electricity and internet affordable
₽8,000-15,000/month
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Work Culture

Russian work culture emphasizes hierarchy, personal relationships, and thorough preparation, with growing modern business practices in major cities.

Working Hours
40 hours/week
Vacation Days
28 days annually

Key Characteristics

•Hierarchical structure with respect for authority
•Personal relationships crucial for business success
•Thorough preparation and attention to detail valued
•Formal business dress and etiquette important
•Patience required for bureaucratic processes
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Visa Information

Russia has complex visa requirements with various categories. Current geopolitical situation affects visa processing for certain nationalities.

Processing Time
4-20 working days
Validity
30 days to 1 year depending on visa type

Requirements

✓Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
✓Invitation letter from Russian organization or individual
✓Completed visa application form
✓Medical insurance covering Russian territory
✓Proof of financial means
✓Clean criminal background check
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Healthcare System

Universal healthcare with mandatory insurance

Russia provides universal healthcare through mandatory insurance system with additional private options available.

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Coverage
Basic healthcare covered, private insurance recommended for comprehensive care

Key Features

✓Universal healthcare system for all residents
✓Mandatory medical insurance (OMS) required
✓Private healthcare available in major cities
✓Emergency services accessible nationwide
✓Specialized medical centers in major cities
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Digital Nomad Friendliness

5/10
Nomad Score
Digital Nomad Friendliness5/10
Internet Speed
50-200 Mbps in cities
Coworking Spaces
100+

Highlights

•Affordable cost of living outside major cities
•Growing tech sector and startup ecosystem
•Rich cultural experiences and history
•Vast landscapes for adventure travel
•Unique position bridging Europe and Asia
🧾

Taxes

Top Rate
13-15% (flat tax for residents)
VAT
20% standard rate
Relatively low personal income tax rates. Non-residents pay 30% on Russian income
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Language & Safety

Language
Russian
English
Moderate
Safety
Moderate
Holidays
12 national holidays plus regional observances
Generally safe in major cities with standard urban precautions. Remote areas require local knowledge and preparation
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Payments

Good in cities - cards widely accepted
Common apps: SberPay, Yandex.Money, Qiwi, Tinkoff Pay
Cash still important in smaller cities and rural areas. Local payment systems dominate
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Mobile & Internet

5G Coverage
Good in urban areas
Carriers
MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2
Excellent coverage in populated areas, limited in remote regions due to vast territory
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