Russia is preparing to launch a new immigration pathway for foreigners who want to settle there long-term and contribute their skills. The move is part of a Presidential Decree No. 883 signed in December 2025.

The idea is simple. If you want to live in Russia permanently and have skills the country needs, this programme gives you a faster and clearer route to residency.

What Is the Impatriate Programme?

The impatriate status targets foreign nationals who want to move to Russia permanently and contribute to the economy, society, or key industries. Starting April 15, 2026, citizens of any country can apply if they believe they meet the criteria. There are no nationality caps or regional limits.

Who Can Apply?

The impatriate programme is designed for individuals who bring real value. That includes those who:

• Have strong skills or experience in science, technology, manufacturing, education, culture, sports, or creative fields
• Work in professions that Russia currently needs
• Have made meaningful contributions in their field or industry

In short, Russia is seeking individuals who can work, create, teach, or innovate, rather than simply relocate.

What Makes This Programme Different?

The impatriate programme is not a standard residence permit process. The main advantage is speed and simplicity. Successful applicants can expect:

• A temporary residence permit without quotas or language and history exams
• A direct and faster path to permanent residence
• Shorter processing times compared to regular migration routes

Once impatriate status is granted, residence permits can be processed in as little as 30 days.

Can Family Members Move Too?

Yes. One of the biggest draws of the programme is that families are included.

Spouses, parents, children, and adopted or dependent children can relocate together with the main applicant. Families also receive support during the move and settlement process.

How the Application Process Works

The process has three main steps:

1. Application submission
   The foreign national applies to be recognised as an impatriate through the programme operator.
2. Three-stage review
   • Skills and eligibility check by the operator
   • Security screening by the Ministry of Internal Affairs
   • Final opinion from a working group under the presidential citizenship commission
3. Final decision
   The Ministry of Internal Affairs decides whether impatriate status is granted.

Processing Times

Official infocards describe an overall processing time of roughly 95 to 125 days to confirm impatriate status, followed by accelerated handling of residence permits, potentially within about 30 days.

Support After Arrival

Approved impatriates and their families receive structured support at both national and regional levels. In pilot regions, authorities provide services through a one-stop system that helps with paperwork, settlement, and basic integration.

When Applications Open

Applications for impatriate status officially open on April 15, 2026.

For skilled professionals considering long-term relocation, this marks a clear shift in Russia’s immigration policy. Instead of complex rules and long waits, the focus here is speed, clarity, and attracting people with skills that matter.