Returning to Russia after years abroad can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience. Whether you are returning to reconnect with your roots, reunite with family, or pursue new opportunities, there are several legal, practical, and emotional considerations to take into account. Moving back to Russia after a long time away requires careful planning and preparation to ensure a smooth transition.
This complete guide will walk you through the key steps involved in moving back to Russia after years abroad, from legal requirements to practical tips on settling in, so you can successfully re-integrate into Russian society.
1. Confirming Your Russian Citizenship Status
The first and most important step is determining your citizenship status. If you were born in Russia or were a Russian citizen before moving abroad, you may still retain your Russian citizenship. However, it’s essential to verify your current status, as some individuals may have lost their citizenship or renounced it over time.
a) Reinstating Russian Citizenship
If you lost your Russian citizenship or renounced it after emigrating, you may need to apply for its restoration. The process for reinstating Russian citizenship typically involves:
- Submitting an application to the Russian consulate or embassy in your country of residence.
- Providing supporting documents, such as your previous Russian passport, birth certificate, or family records, to prove your Russian ancestry or citizenship.
- Demonstrating ties to Russia, such as knowledge of the language or evidence of residency in Russia.
b) Dual Citizenship Considerations
Russia allows dual citizenship in practice, but the country officially does not recognize it. If you hold citizenship in another country, you may be asked to disclose this during the process and might have to renounce your foreign citizenship in some cases, especially for certain positions within the Russian government.
c) Applying for a New Russian Passport
If your Russian citizenship is reinstated, you can apply for a new passport. You will need to provide proof of citizenship (such as your birth certificate or restored citizenship certificate), photographs, and complete the official application form.
2. Preparing for the Move: Practical Considerations
Once your citizenship status is sorted, there are several practical steps you’ll need to take to prepare for your move back to Russia.
a) Legal Residency Registration
Upon arrival in Russia, you must register your place of residence within seven days. This is a legal requirement for all citizens, and failure to register could lead to fines or other legal issues.
- Where to Register: You can register your residence at the Multifunctional Center (MFC) or the local office of the Federal Migration Service (FMS).
- Documents Needed: You will need your passport, proof of residence (e.g., rental agreement or property ownership), and any other documents requested by the authorities.
b) Healthcare and Insurance
As a Russian citizen, you are entitled to state-funded healthcare through the mandatory health insurance system (OMS). However, you must register with the local health insurance provider to access public healthcare services.
- Obtaining Medical Insurance: After registering your residence, you can apply for a health insurance card, which will allow you to access medical services at state hospitals and clinics.
- Private Insurance: Some expatriates choose to opt for private health insurance for more comprehensive coverage, though the state system is generally sufficient for most basic healthcare needs.
c) Bank Accounts and Financial Setup
Before returning to Russia, you should prepare to set up a bank account in Russia for your financial transactions. If you already had a Russian bank account, it may still be active, but you will need to ensure it’s properly updated.
- Documents Required: You will need your passport, proof of residence, and potentially your former Russian taxpayer identification number (INN).
- Currency: Be sure to familiarize yourself with the Russian banking system, including how to transfer money from abroad, how to handle currency exchange, and how to set up accounts for everyday transactions.
d) Employment and Taxation
If you plan to work in Russia, there are several things to consider:
- Employment Registration: You will need to register with the Russian tax office and obtain an employment contract with your employer. This will ensure that you are paying taxes in Russia.
- Taxation: Russian citizens are subject to taxation on their worldwide income. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the tax system, including any tax treaties between Russia and your previous country of residence.
3. Housing and Accommodation in Russia
One of the biggest challenges when moving back to Russia is finding a place to live. Housing in Russia can vary greatly depending on the city, region, and your budget.
a) Types of Housing
- Rental Properties: Renting an apartment is a common option, especially in larger cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. Rental contracts in Russia are usually for one year, though shorter-term options are available.
- Buying Property: If you plan to buy property in Russia, the process can be more complex for foreigners or former citizens. You will need to provide proof of Russian citizenship and ensure that the property is in an area where foreigners are allowed to purchase real estate.
b) Real Estate Market:
The real estate market in Russia can be competitive, particularly in major cities. Research neighborhoods and costs thoroughly before committing to a lease or purchase.
4. Social Integration and Cultural Adaptation
Adapting to life in Russia after years abroad can take time. You’ll need to familiarize yourself with the culture, language, and social norms to integrate successfully into Russian society.
a) Language and Communication
Although Russian is the official language, it’s important to assess your language proficiency before moving back. While many Russians in larger cities speak English, especially in business and government, speaking Russian is essential for daily life.
- Language Classes: If needed, consider enrolling in Russian language courses to improve your fluency. This will help you navigate conversations, work situations, and day-to-day tasks.
- Cultural Norms: Understanding local customs, etiquette, and social norms will help you interact effectively with Russian citizens and ease your transition.
b) Reconnecting with Family and Friends
Returning to Russia may involve reuniting with family and reconnecting with old friends. Be prepared for emotional challenges, especially if you’ve been away for a long time.
- Family Support: If you have family members in Russia, ensure that you stay in regular contact with them to help adjust to life back home.
- Rebuilding Social Networks: Reconnect with old friends or make new ones through social networks, events, or local clubs. Joining community groups or local activities can help you integrate socially.
5. Educational Opportunities for You or Your Family
If you’re returning with children or are planning to pursue education yourself, you’ll need to explore educational options in Russia.
a) Schooling for Children
Russia offers both public and private schooling options. Public education is free, and the quality can vary depending on the region, but private schools offer more flexibility and personalized attention.
- International Schools: In larger cities, you can find international schools that follow foreign curricula.
- Russian Language Proficiency: For children who may not be fluent in Russian, some private schools offer support to help with language immersion.
b) Higher Education
If you’re returning for academic purposes or higher education, you will find that Russian universities offer competitive programs in a variety of fields.
- Tuition Fees: Many Russian universities offer free education for citizens, but there are also paid programs available for non-residents.
- Scholarships: Explore scholarship opportunities for Russian citizens returning to study or pursue higher education.
6. Navigating the Bureaucracy
Russia has a complex bureaucracy, which can be overwhelming for those returning after years abroad. Be prepared to navigate various administrative processes, including registration, tax filing, and healthcare enrollment.
- Multifunctional Centers (MFC): These government offices provide one-stop services for citizens, making it easier to handle administrative tasks.
- Patience with Paperwork: The bureaucracy in Russia can be slow, and patience is key when dealing with official processes.
7. Adjusting to Russian Weather and Lifestyle
Russia’s climate varies drastically depending on the region, so be prepared for cold winters, especially if you’re moving to Siberia or northern Russia.
- Weather Preparedness: Ensure you have appropriate clothing for the cold months, including winter coats, boots, and layered clothing.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Depending on where you are moving, you may find different lifestyle dynamics, from the bustling pace of Moscow to the slower pace of smaller towns and rural areas.
Conclusion
Moving back to Russia after years abroad is a significant life change that requires careful planning and preparation. By following the steps outlined in this guide—from confirming your citizenship and applying for a new passport to adjusting to Russia’s social and cultural norms—you can ensure a smoother transition and begin your new life in Russia with confidence.
Whether you’re returning for personal, professional, or family reasons, being prepared and informed will help you integrate more easily and make the most of the opportunities available in Russia.
