Foreign job for Asians
Russia
Living, working or studying in Russia?
Just Landed helps you manage everyday life. Our Russia Guide covers topics like visas, housing, jobs and finance. Join the Just Landed Community, get in touch with people like you and share your experiences. Most importantly, have fun!
Visas & Permits
Before planning to come to Russia, make sure you understand your legal situation. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip, you may need an entry visa, residence permit and/or work permit. Read our guide about the legal entry requirements for Russia and use the Just Landed forums to ask for help or advice.
Russian VisasTypes of visas and procedures for extensions
Travel to Russia requires an entry visa.
The type of visa varies, depending on the purpose of the trip and the duration of stay in Russia.
The following types of Russian visas can be issued:
Business visa: With regards to the nature of the business trip, the visa can be suited to single-entry, double-entry or multiple-entry purposes. A business visa can be valid up to 12 months.
Work visa: Work visas are only issued with the sponsorship of an employing organisation. In a nutshell, you must already have a job offer to applying for a work visa. It is valid for up to 3 months. There is an optional extension for issuing a multiple visa, but eligibility depends on your work status.
Tourist visa: The tourist visa is issued to travellers who are visiting Russia for non-business reasons. Ideal for short, one-time visits, the tourist visa is issued for a maximum of 14-30 days. It is the easiest and cheapest type of visa to obtain
Private visa: Visitors with relatives or friends in Russia may be able to acquire this private visa. Your relative and/or friend must make a request for the private invitation on your behalf at their local department of the Passport and Visa Service.
Student visa: Whether for an exchange program or for full-time education, these activities need a student visa. Students will have to provide proof of their acceptance and enrolment at an academic institution.
Transit visa: If Russia is not the final destination of your journey, you’ll be issued with a transit visa. This visa is issued on the grounds of your tickets. They are typically inexpensive and valid for a short period of time- up to 72 hours. A transit visa is not required for layovers of less than 24 hours, provided you remain in the international area of the airport.
Your type of visa can permit you to stay in Russia anywhere from 1 day to 1 year. Single-entry or double-entry visas can be valid for 1 to 3 months. Multi-entry visas are issued for 3, 6 or 12 months.
Extending your visa
Russian visas are generally not extended. They can only be prolonged if you miss your flight or in case of an accident or serious illness.
The student visa, while it does not have a restricted validity, can be extended in relation to the length of study.
Business visas can be extended, but in a limited scope. It is fundamental to complete this process in conjunction with the Russian company responsible for your employment
Multiple-entry visas are not extended. In order to remain in Russia, you will need to reapply for a new one.
You may apply for another visa while your existing one is still valid. When your new invitation letter is ready, you must exit Russia before your old visa expires. Then you can present your application in any Russian Consulate abroad. Make sure that annoying policies don't require you to return to your native country to complete the application.
Lost or Stolen VisasUpon the unfortunate event that your visa is lost or stolen, you will have to obtain an exit visa. Contact a local police precinct and make a request for an official document, confirming that your visa was lost or stolen. You must then present this official confirmation with your passport, 2 photos and your return ticket to your visa sponsor. An exit visa can only be processed on your behalf by your visa sponsor.
Visa Invitations
How to obtain visa support
There are general obligatory requirements for those entering the Russian Federation. Different visas require additional documents so get your paperwork in order. This section provides an insight as to what needs to be done to obtain a Russian visa.
The following are essential in order to get a Russian visa:
Visa Support: Invitations to RussiaYou need a different type of invitation for every type of visa. The invitation or visa support can be issued by a travel agency or a professional company.
An invitation for a business visa can be supplied by a Russian company which has accreditation with the Federal Migration Service of the Russian Internal Ministry. It is also possible to get a business invitation by the request of an international organization which has accreditation with the Consular Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
For a tourist visa, you need an invitation called a tourist voucher. Be sure to provide a hotel booking confirmation if this is not incorporated into your tourist voucher. A travel agency can usually issue the invitation on the same or next day of your reservation. Also consider that you may be charged extra for this service.
In the case of a student visa, the place of study will usually manage the invitation process for you. You must submit all of your data and documents to the school or university. They will pass it, on your behalf, to the immigration officials.
While travel agencies can provide you with a tourist invitation, permission for a private visa must be obtained from the family or friends inviting you.
After you receive your invitation you have to complete your visa application. Go to a Russian consulate or embassy or send the documents certified mail. Be aware that German, Latin American, Asian and African citizens can only apply for visas at the Russian Consulate in their native countries.
Entering Russia
Entry requirements and registration procedures
Aside from the obligatory entry requirements, such as a visa, there are additional things to consider before going to Russia. Customs officials will check any valuable items. Registration and work permits should be taken care of upon your arrival.
When travelling with a pet, you should obtain an international health certificate from a certified veterinarian.
Digital cameras and laptop computers can be brought to Russia tax free, if these items are to be taken out of the country upon departure. These should be mentioned in your customs declaration. Prescription drugs for personal consumption can also be brought to Russia.
If you carry sport-guns or shotguns in your luggage you must receive special permits to take them in and out of the country.
Tobacco products and up to 2 litres of alcohol can be brought to Russia tax free.
The amount of foreign currency accepted in Russia is unlimited. Please mention it in your customs declaration and present it to a customs officer. Traveller’s cheques are usually accepted in banks where you can exchange them for cash.
Registration in RussiaOnce you enter Russia you should register. Sometimes, the travel agencies or companies that issue your visa invitation can register your visa. If not, you can register at the hotel where you are staying, or, at a local registration office. There is no need to register your visa for stays in Russia less than 3 days.
Tourist visa registration takes about 3 working days. You must present your passport, visa and exact address in Russia.
Multiple-entry visa registration takes no less than 5 business days. Your passport and visa must be brought to your sponsor, along with a notarized letter from your landlord. If you change the place where you are staying in the Russian Federation, you must register at the new location within 3 working days of your arrival.
If you lose the documents with which you entered Russia, you cannot be registered. You must obtain a document certifying the documents are lost or stolen, and then exit the country within 10 days.
Work Permits
Procedures for getting a work permit in Russia
To work in Russia you need to obtain a work permit based on your visa. It is easiest if your employer requests the permit for you. Doing it yourself requires the services of an attorney, which can be quite expensive. Another alternative is to register as a private entrepreneur.
Once a Russian business offers a foreign citizen a permanent job, the work permit can be issued. Work permits require the approval of the Federal Migration Service.
If you change your job, you may keep the work permit obtained by your previous employer, if it still has at least 3 months until the expiry date.
The employer in Russia must obtain the work permit before the employee arrives in Russia. The company needs to demonstrate that your work cannot be done by a Russian. The process of obtaining a permit from the city employment office can be difficult.
Working as a private entrepreneur in RussiaAnother option is to register as a private entrepreneur. Eventually you’ll be able to apply for permanent residency, which will allow you to have the same rights as Russian citizens.
Proceed with caution, as although it’s been done, creating a business can be difficult without knowing the language or the country well. In this case you will probably need the services of law firms with English (French, German, etc.) speaking attorneys which can be quite expensive. The whole procedure for setting up a business can take about 2-3 months.
Employees that don’t need a work permitSome employees (lucky!) do not need work permits. These include journalists, university lecturers, students working in their spare time and employees of foreign companies who are brought to Russia.
Overview
The Russian Job Market for Foreigners
The Russian economy has experienced a major growth in recent years. Western companies are involved in such industries as construction, development and finance, in addition to retail and teaching services.
In Russia, foreigners wanting to work must obtain a permit via the employer offering them a post. However it is possible for an individual to apply for an entry visa in order to seek employment in Russia. The procedure for obtaining visas and work permits can be difficult and time-consuming, typically taking up to several months.
Most expatriates in Russia are employed by diplomatic missions or foreign companies, while teachers are employed by English language schools. Relatively few jobs are available for foreign workers in the local economy. Good knowledge of Russian is required to work for a local employer.
English is in great demand in Russia and many language schools offer jobs for qualified English teachers. Many schools only offer part-time jobs that don't pay particularly well, so teachers often work for several different schools at the same time. Often times a teaching job is a good stepping stone to setting up your own business.
You can find English teaching job adverts online and in the Moscow Times, an English language newspaper. When accepting a job in Russia, it is important that all contracts be in both Russian and your native language in order to be considered enforceable in a Russian court.
Finding A Job
Where To Look For Jobs in Russia
There are different ways to find jobs in Russia. You can get a good idea of the market by looking at the offers advertised on job portals. Other effective means of finding a job are registering with a recruitment agency and networking.
A good way to find a job in Russia is through internet websites. Special internet services have been created to save you time and make this as simple as possible. A well-established job site, Monster, has its own Russian department.
Recruitment AgenciesPlenty of agencies on the web offer recruitment services to foreigners. You can contact them directly by filling out an application form and looking for jobs in their database. Remember that recruitment agencies can sometimes be unreliable. Don’t sit back and give up your own search once you’ve given them your resume/ CV.
Personal ContactsMany foreigners find new jobs through personal connections rather than via an employment agency. In this case networking can be a good option. Always have your business cards ready - you might get an interview when you least expect it.
Apart from making Russian friends, you may also like to meet other foreigners, which is quite easy. There are many social and sporting clubs comprised of a large foreign membership base. Such groups include the Moscow Dragons Rugby, Hash House Harriers, Hikers, Walkers and Nature Lovers and the International Women's Club.
Such groups provide a comfortable environment for foreigners and Russian English-speakers. Joining one of these groups is a great way to meet locals who share similar interests and experiences.
Job ApplicationsThe procedure of applying for a job in Russia is just like everywhere else. A good start is an up-to-date resume/CV. When applying for a position, a cover letter should be included. Applications can be sent via e-mail, fax or letter- maybe all 3 if you're persistent or just want to be sure. If you're applications isn't answered within a month, call or send a reminder.
Resumes in RussiaIn Russia, resumes should follow the same format as anywhere else in the world. The basics (name, address and phone number) are vital. Don’t forget to give your education background.
State a clear and concise job objective. This enables you to tailor your resume to a particular position and/or company. This provides focus and a clear sense of direction to those reviewing your resume.
List your previous experiences chronologically, beginning with your most recent position. Focus on achievements at your present and previous jobs, especially those involving management skills and critical thinking.
Personal data can be included in a short section to wrap up your resume. Bring in any additional skills that don’t fit in to other categories such as languages or computer training.
References are not necessary as part of your resume. If necessary, references can be provided at an interview.
Sending an application in English is usually sufficient. However, if your language skills are good enough, it could be valuable to send your resume in Russian as well. Always check specific requirements for each position and take them into account when applying for a job.
Job interviews in RussiaUsually there is more than one job interview in Russia. After speaking with the company’s Human Resource manager, the next job interview will be with your future supervisor.
Research the company ahead of time, so you’ll be able to speak effectively and prepared.
Arrive early and dress neatly. Women can wear skirts and blouses, while a suit and tie is appropriate for men. It is important to demonstrate good appearance as well as good manners.
Prepare for questions about your personal and professional goals. Listen carefully to the questions and answer them directly.
Improve Your ChancesLearning Russian is the best way to improve your chances in the Russian job market. With Russian and your native language, you’ll have a great advantage over the competition- both foreign and local.
Types of Jobs
What kinds of jobs you can find in Russia
This article gives an insight as to what types of jobs are available for foreigners in the Russian job market. Many overseas companies hold a Russian branch. The most common positions available are teaching English, translating, editing and freelancing.
The internet has many offers for English teachers. Aside from universities, nearly all towns and cities have at least a few language schools.
Finding an English-teaching job can be more difficult in Moscow or St. Petersburg, where there is much greater competition.
In addition to English conversation, some schools have positions to teach basic subjects in English.
Don’t forget you need a visa that allows you to work legally in Russia. Some kind of teaching certification or experience is usually required, so we recommend getting an English teaching certificate.
Translating and EditingJob offers for translators and editors are easy to find online. Try searching the databases of recruitment agencies or looking for language-orientated services (such as foreign language newspapers and magazines) in Russia.
FreelancingRussia’s growing economy offers good opportunities for freelancing. Local markets across the country have openings for industrious foreigners. An increasing number of foreign companies are establishing branches in Russia
Most opportunities involve language and culture. Many recruiting software companies often require their staff to be fluent in English and other languages. Due to the importance of customer service in these services, there are good opportunities for freelancers to provide training in Western-style business practices.
However, while the cash economy makes freelancing easier, it also imposes some limitations. In Russia checking accounts are unheard of and electronic money transfers can be very complicated. Dealing with businesses in other cities can be uneconomical if you have to travel to collect payment.
One solution could be to register a company and to open a business banking account in Russia. However this often requires overhead and exposure to tax authorities. While freelancing does allow some freedom of lifestyle and control over income, it is very hard work.
Foreign Companies in RussiaAnother alternative for foreigners job hunting in Russia is working with an international corporation or organization. However, such openings are rare and are usually not advertised widely. Many international corporations look for foreign employees through their branches overseas, not by posting job ads on the Internet.
Your best option would be to find a company’s contact information and contact them directly. Send your CV and explain what you are looking for and your qualifications. Many companies are always on the lookout for decent, qualified employees- you just have to be persistent.
Before planning to come to Russia, make sure you understand your legal situation. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip, you may need an entry visa, residence permit and/or work permit. Read our guide about the legal entry requirements for Russia and use the Just Landed forums to ask for help or advice.
Russian VisasTypes of visas and procedures for extensions
Travel to Russia requires an entry visa.
The type of visa varies, depending on the purpose of the trip and the duration of stay in Russia.
The following types of Russian visas can be issued:
Business visa: With regards to the nature of the business trip, the visa can be suited to single-entry, double-entry or multiple-entry purposes. A business visa can be valid up to 12 months.
Work visa: Work visas are only issued with the sponsorship of an employing organisation. In a nutshell, you must already have a job offer to applying for a work visa. It is valid for up to 3 months. There is an optional extension for issuing a multiple visa, but eligibility depends on your work status.
Tourist visa: The tourist visa is issued to travellers who are visiting Russia for non-business reasons. Ideal for short, one-time visits, the tourist visa is issued for a maximum of 14-30 days. It is the easiest and cheapest type of visa to obtain
Private visa: Visitors with relatives or friends in Russia may be able to acquire this private visa. Your relative and/or friend must make a request for the private invitation on your behalf at their local department of the Passport and Visa Service.
Student visa: Whether for an exchange program or for full-time education, these activities need a student visa. Students will have to provide proof of their acceptance and enrolment at an academic institution.
Transit visa: If Russia is not the final destination of your journey, you’ll be issued with a transit visa. This visa is issued on the grounds of your tickets. They are typically inexpensive and valid for a short period of time- up to 72 hours. A transit visa is not required for layovers of less than 24 hours, provided you remain in the international area of the airport.
Your type of visa can permit you to stay in Russia anywhere from 1 day to 1 year. Single-entry or double-entry visas can be valid for 1 to 3 months. Multi-entry visas are issued for 3, 6 or 12 months.
Extending your visa
Russian visas are generally not extended. They can only be prolonged if you miss your flight or in case of an accident or serious illness.
The student visa, while it does not have a restricted validity, can be extended in relation to the length of study.
Business visas can be extended, but in a limited scope. It is fundamental to complete this process in conjunction with the Russian company responsible for your employment
Multiple-entry visas are not extended. In order to remain in Russia, you will need to reapply for a new one.
You may apply for another visa while your existing one is still valid. When your new invitation letter is ready, you must exit Russia before your old visa expires. Then you can present your application in any Russian Consulate abroad. Make sure that annoying policies don't require you to return to your native country to complete the application.
Lost or Stolen VisasUpon the unfortunate event that your visa is lost or stolen, you will have to obtain an exit visa. Contact a local police precinct and make a request for an official document, confirming that your visa was lost or stolen. You must then present this official confirmation with your passport, 2 photos and your return ticket to your visa sponsor. An exit visa can only be processed on your behalf by your visa sponsor.
Visa Invitations
How to obtain visa support
There are general obligatory requirements for those entering the Russian Federation. Different visas require additional documents so get your paperwork in order. This section provides an insight as to what needs to be done to obtain a Russian visa.
The following are essential in order to get a Russian visa:
- A passport, valid for 6 months beyond intended stay
- A visa application form
- An invitation letter
- A completed migration card
Visa Support: Invitations to RussiaYou need a different type of invitation for every type of visa. The invitation or visa support can be issued by a travel agency or a professional company.
An invitation for a business visa can be supplied by a Russian company which has accreditation with the Federal Migration Service of the Russian Internal Ministry. It is also possible to get a business invitation by the request of an international organization which has accreditation with the Consular Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
For a tourist visa, you need an invitation called a tourist voucher. Be sure to provide a hotel booking confirmation if this is not incorporated into your tourist voucher. A travel agency can usually issue the invitation on the same or next day of your reservation. Also consider that you may be charged extra for this service.
In the case of a student visa, the place of study will usually manage the invitation process for you. You must submit all of your data and documents to the school or university. They will pass it, on your behalf, to the immigration officials.
While travel agencies can provide you with a tourist invitation, permission for a private visa must be obtained from the family or friends inviting you.
After you receive your invitation you have to complete your visa application. Go to a Russian consulate or embassy or send the documents certified mail. Be aware that German, Latin American, Asian and African citizens can only apply for visas at the Russian Consulate in their native countries.
Entering Russia
Entry requirements and registration procedures
Aside from the obligatory entry requirements, such as a visa, there are additional things to consider before going to Russia. Customs officials will check any valuable items. Registration and work permits should be taken care of upon your arrival.
When travelling with a pet, you should obtain an international health certificate from a certified veterinarian.
Digital cameras and laptop computers can be brought to Russia tax free, if these items are to be taken out of the country upon departure. These should be mentioned in your customs declaration. Prescription drugs for personal consumption can also be brought to Russia.
If you carry sport-guns or shotguns in your luggage you must receive special permits to take them in and out of the country.
Tobacco products and up to 2 litres of alcohol can be brought to Russia tax free.
The amount of foreign currency accepted in Russia is unlimited. Please mention it in your customs declaration and present it to a customs officer. Traveller’s cheques are usually accepted in banks where you can exchange them for cash.
Registration in RussiaOnce you enter Russia you should register. Sometimes, the travel agencies or companies that issue your visa invitation can register your visa. If not, you can register at the hotel where you are staying, or, at a local registration office. There is no need to register your visa for stays in Russia less than 3 days.
Tourist visa registration takes about 3 working days. You must present your passport, visa and exact address in Russia.
Multiple-entry visa registration takes no less than 5 business days. Your passport and visa must be brought to your sponsor, along with a notarized letter from your landlord. If you change the place where you are staying in the Russian Federation, you must register at the new location within 3 working days of your arrival.
If you lose the documents with which you entered Russia, you cannot be registered. You must obtain a document certifying the documents are lost or stolen, and then exit the country within 10 days.
Work Permits
Procedures for getting a work permit in Russia
To work in Russia you need to obtain a work permit based on your visa. It is easiest if your employer requests the permit for you. Doing it yourself requires the services of an attorney, which can be quite expensive. Another alternative is to register as a private entrepreneur.
Once a Russian business offers a foreign citizen a permanent job, the work permit can be issued. Work permits require the approval of the Federal Migration Service.
If you change your job, you may keep the work permit obtained by your previous employer, if it still has at least 3 months until the expiry date.
The employer in Russia must obtain the work permit before the employee arrives in Russia. The company needs to demonstrate that your work cannot be done by a Russian. The process of obtaining a permit from the city employment office can be difficult.
Working as a private entrepreneur in RussiaAnother option is to register as a private entrepreneur. Eventually you’ll be able to apply for permanent residency, which will allow you to have the same rights as Russian citizens.
Proceed with caution, as although it’s been done, creating a business can be difficult without knowing the language or the country well. In this case you will probably need the services of law firms with English (French, German, etc.) speaking attorneys which can be quite expensive. The whole procedure for setting up a business can take about 2-3 months.
Employees that don’t need a work permitSome employees (lucky!) do not need work permits. These include journalists, university lecturers, students working in their spare time and employees of foreign companies who are brought to Russia.
Overview
The Russian Job Market for Foreigners
The Russian economy has experienced a major growth in recent years. Western companies are involved in such industries as construction, development and finance, in addition to retail and teaching services.
In Russia, foreigners wanting to work must obtain a permit via the employer offering them a post. However it is possible for an individual to apply for an entry visa in order to seek employment in Russia. The procedure for obtaining visas and work permits can be difficult and time-consuming, typically taking up to several months.
Most expatriates in Russia are employed by diplomatic missions or foreign companies, while teachers are employed by English language schools. Relatively few jobs are available for foreign workers in the local economy. Good knowledge of Russian is required to work for a local employer.
English is in great demand in Russia and many language schools offer jobs for qualified English teachers. Many schools only offer part-time jobs that don't pay particularly well, so teachers often work for several different schools at the same time. Often times a teaching job is a good stepping stone to setting up your own business.
You can find English teaching job adverts online and in the Moscow Times, an English language newspaper. When accepting a job in Russia, it is important that all contracts be in both Russian and your native language in order to be considered enforceable in a Russian court.
Finding A Job
Where To Look For Jobs in Russia
There are different ways to find jobs in Russia. You can get a good idea of the market by looking at the offers advertised on job portals. Other effective means of finding a job are registering with a recruitment agency and networking.
A good way to find a job in Russia is through internet websites. Special internet services have been created to save you time and make this as simple as possible. A well-established job site, Monster, has its own Russian department.
Recruitment AgenciesPlenty of agencies on the web offer recruitment services to foreigners. You can contact them directly by filling out an application form and looking for jobs in their database. Remember that recruitment agencies can sometimes be unreliable. Don’t sit back and give up your own search once you’ve given them your resume/ CV.
Personal ContactsMany foreigners find new jobs through personal connections rather than via an employment agency. In this case networking can be a good option. Always have your business cards ready - you might get an interview when you least expect it.
Apart from making Russian friends, you may also like to meet other foreigners, which is quite easy. There are many social and sporting clubs comprised of a large foreign membership base. Such groups include the Moscow Dragons Rugby, Hash House Harriers, Hikers, Walkers and Nature Lovers and the International Women's Club.
Such groups provide a comfortable environment for foreigners and Russian English-speakers. Joining one of these groups is a great way to meet locals who share similar interests and experiences.
Job ApplicationsThe procedure of applying for a job in Russia is just like everywhere else. A good start is an up-to-date resume/CV. When applying for a position, a cover letter should be included. Applications can be sent via e-mail, fax or letter- maybe all 3 if you're persistent or just want to be sure. If you're applications isn't answered within a month, call or send a reminder.
Resumes in RussiaIn Russia, resumes should follow the same format as anywhere else in the world. The basics (name, address and phone number) are vital. Don’t forget to give your education background.
State a clear and concise job objective. This enables you to tailor your resume to a particular position and/or company. This provides focus and a clear sense of direction to those reviewing your resume.
List your previous experiences chronologically, beginning with your most recent position. Focus on achievements at your present and previous jobs, especially those involving management skills and critical thinking.
Personal data can be included in a short section to wrap up your resume. Bring in any additional skills that don’t fit in to other categories such as languages or computer training.
References are not necessary as part of your resume. If necessary, references can be provided at an interview.
Sending an application in English is usually sufficient. However, if your language skills are good enough, it could be valuable to send your resume in Russian as well. Always check specific requirements for each position and take them into account when applying for a job.
Job interviews in RussiaUsually there is more than one job interview in Russia. After speaking with the company’s Human Resource manager, the next job interview will be with your future supervisor.
Research the company ahead of time, so you’ll be able to speak effectively and prepared.
Arrive early and dress neatly. Women can wear skirts and blouses, while a suit and tie is appropriate for men. It is important to demonstrate good appearance as well as good manners.
Prepare for questions about your personal and professional goals. Listen carefully to the questions and answer them directly.
Improve Your ChancesLearning Russian is the best way to improve your chances in the Russian job market. With Russian and your native language, you’ll have a great advantage over the competition- both foreign and local.
Types of Jobs
What kinds of jobs you can find in Russia
This article gives an insight as to what types of jobs are available for foreigners in the Russian job market. Many overseas companies hold a Russian branch. The most common positions available are teaching English, translating, editing and freelancing.
The internet has many offers for English teachers. Aside from universities, nearly all towns and cities have at least a few language schools.
Finding an English-teaching job can be more difficult in Moscow or St. Petersburg, where there is much greater competition.
In addition to English conversation, some schools have positions to teach basic subjects in English.
Don’t forget you need a visa that allows you to work legally in Russia. Some kind of teaching certification or experience is usually required, so we recommend getting an English teaching certificate.
Translating and EditingJob offers for translators and editors are easy to find online. Try searching the databases of recruitment agencies or looking for language-orientated services (such as foreign language newspapers and magazines) in Russia.
FreelancingRussia’s growing economy offers good opportunities for freelancing. Local markets across the country have openings for industrious foreigners. An increasing number of foreign companies are establishing branches in Russia
Most opportunities involve language and culture. Many recruiting software companies often require their staff to be fluent in English and other languages. Due to the importance of customer service in these services, there are good opportunities for freelancers to provide training in Western-style business practices.
However, while the cash economy makes freelancing easier, it also imposes some limitations. In Russia checking accounts are unheard of and electronic money transfers can be very complicated. Dealing with businesses in other cities can be uneconomical if you have to travel to collect payment.
One solution could be to register a company and to open a business banking account in Russia. However this often requires overhead and exposure to tax authorities. While freelancing does allow some freedom of lifestyle and control over income, it is very hard work.
Foreign Companies in RussiaAnother alternative for foreigners job hunting in Russia is working with an international corporation or organization. However, such openings are rare and are usually not advertised widely. Many international corporations look for foreign employees through their branches overseas, not by posting job ads on the Internet.
Your best option would be to find a company’s contact information and contact them directly. Send your CV and explain what you are looking for and your qualifications. Many companies are always on the lookout for decent, qualified employees- you just have to be persistent.
