Can a foreign student work in Russia?

The Federal Law No. 16-FZ dated 06 Feb 2020 facilitates the employment procedure in Russia for foreign students. However, there are some differences.

• INTRAMURAL STUDENTS (студенты очной формы обучения) can be hired under a certificate from the university stating they study there. It confirms their status and gives the right to work without obtaining any other permission documents.

• EXRAMURAL STUDENTS (студенты заочной формы обучения) are equal in rights with ordinary foreign nationals and have to obtain a permit or patent (depending on the nationality) before entering into a labor contract. Those who study in the mixed attendance mode also belong to this category.

• EDUCATIONAL TEMPORARY RESIDENCY (known as РВПО): This document is issued to intramural foreign students studying at a Russian university or state scientific organization. Noncitizens with this document have the status of temporary residents in Russia, that is, they can get a job without additional permits.

The latter option is more preferable for both the employer and employee since:

✅ No need to have an annual physical exam;
✅ The labor contract with a non-resident will be terminated right after the student graduates or is expelled, while a person with «РВПО» can work for additional 180 days.
✅ Share of foreign employees. There is a limit on the number of foreign employees in some industries. As residents are not counted in this proportion, it may be a deciding factor in choosing a candidate.



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