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Russia’s “talent visa” applications opened on 15 April 2026

21.04.2026

Russia has launched a special migration program for foreign nationals that are deemed of interest to our country. Visa applications will be assessed by the program operator and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Successful applicants and their family members will receive a one-year “talent visa.” After entering Russia, they must apply for a temporary residency permit (TRP) or permanent residency permit (PRP). Special migration schemes to attract international talent have been implemented by the US, Canada, the UK, Denmark and France.

Starting 15 April 2026, foreign nationals may file a petition for recognition as a person of interest to Russia[1] if they:

Have achievements in science and technology, manufacturing, sports, creative industries, culture and arts, and education
Have contributed to the development of Russia’s society and economy and to strengthening its defense capability and security
Have a high-demand profession (occupation), qualification or skills

If the petition is approved, a foreign individual will be granted a one-year “talent visa” for relocation to Russia, enabling them to engage in professional activities. The main requirement for approval is submitting documentation that supports outstanding achievements or qualifications. After entering Russia, applicants must obtain a TRP or a PRP via a fast-track procedure.

WHO CAN APPLY

Foreign nationals in the following categories:

Scientists (e.g., members of the Russian Academy of Sciences, candidates and doctors of science, winners of international, foreign or Russian awards for outstanding achievements in science and technology included in the special list)
Entrepreneurs in certain sectors and with income above a specific level (founders of a business in Russia or individuals with other achievements in the manufacturing sector)
Outstanding athletes (e.g., champions or medalists of the Olympics or CIS or BRICS championships, Russian masters of sports, medal winners invited by a Russian professional sports club)
Creative professionals (e.g., members of the Russian Academy of Arts, winners of prestigious awards included in the relevant list, prominent cultural figures invited by a Russian state cultural institution)
Talented students and graduates (winners of international competitions, graduates of leading global universities)
Recipients of Russian state decorations or the highest departmental awards from Russian public authorities for merits (achievements) in their respective field
Professionals in high-demand occupations included in the official list (relevant work experience and/or specialized degree are required)

The list is not restrictive for most of these categories, and the decision on whether a foreign national is of interest will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Facing the prospect of the minimum salary threshold for Нighly Qualified Specialist (HQS) foreign employees to be raised from RUB 750,000 per quarter (as per the current migration program) to RUB 717,000 per month[2], employers are looking for alternative migration schemes for their foreign personnel to bypass the new salary requirements. Since applications for “talent visas” have only been open since 15 April 2026, the actual level of achievement sufficient to qualify for this program still remains unclear. At the same time, citizens of “unfriendly countries” that share Russia’s traditional spiritual and moral values may obtain a TRP under a special simplified scheme[3].

BENEFITS OF THE “TALENT VISA” SPECIAL MIGRATION PROGRAM

Simplified TRP (bypassing quotas) and PRP application procedure
Availability of TRP and PRP, including employment right, for family members

In 2023, Russia introduced a special fast-track PRP scheme for foreign investors that prioritize investments in socially significant facilities, establishment of new businesses or investments in existing companies and acquisition of high-value properties in Russia. However, the number of applicants seeking to benefit from this PRP scheme remains low.

The B1 migration team will monitor how the “talent visa” program will be implemented and will share our insights. If you have any questions about your eligibility for any of the special migration schemes, please do not hesitate to contact our migration team.

AUTHORS

Ekaterina Ukhova

B1 Partner

People Advisory Services (PAS) Leader. 25+ years of consulting experience focusing on complex employer and employee issues

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Maria Tkacheva

B1 Director

People Advisory Services

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Yana Kuznetsova

B1 Assistant Manager

People Advisory Services

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Show references

[1] Decree No. 883 of the President of the Russian Federation of 2 December 2025 “On supporting the resettlement to the Russian Federation of foreign nationals and stateless persons that are of interest to the Russian Federation, and on their legal status in the Russian Federation”
[2] Sharp increase in minimum salary requirement for HQS – bill passed first reading in Duma on 18 March 2026
[3] Decree No. 702 of the President of the Russian Federation of 19 August 2024 “On providing humanitarian support to individuals sharing Russia’s traditional spiritual and moral values”