Russia is planning a big change that will make it easier for skilled workers from India to live and work in the country. From April 2026, Russia will start a new Skill Visa that allows foreign professionals and their families to move there and get temporary or permanent residency. The good news is that applicants will not need to pass a language test or follow immigration quota limits.

This update has brought hope to many Indians who are already working in Russia, as well as those who want to build their future there. India and Russia have shared a strong relationship for many years, and this new step is being seen as a fresh opportunity to strengthen those ties.

Russian President Vladimir Putin approved this new visa policy before his recent visit to India. The plan also supports the work mobility agreements signed by both countries during their recent meetings.

The new visa will be open to professionals from different fields such as science, business, economics, education, culture, industry and sports. These experts will be able to enter Russia more easily and settle there without the usual complicated rules.

How the Skill Visa will work

The process will happen in two simple steps:

First, the applicant must apply to a special government-approved agency. If the agency finds the candidate suitable, they can move to the next step.

In the second step, the applicant submits their request for temporary or permanent residency to Russian immigration authorities.

Once the agency approves the candidate, the approval will stay valid for one year. During this time, the applicant must complete and submit the residency application.

People can apply online from their home country. After approval, the applicant and their family members will get a one-year business visa, which allows them to travel to Russia and complete their residency paperwork there.

Another helpful point is that applicants can start working in Russia while their residency is being processed, and they do not need a separate work permit during this time.

Most applications are expected to be processed within 30 days, making the system faster and simpler for skilled workers.

Visit Visabud for the latest visa updates.