Russia requires foreign workers to hold a work authorisation arranged through their employer. Employing them legally is employer-led and tied to a specific job.

In short: to employ a foreign worker in Russia, you secure a work permit or patent through the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD), verify their legal stay, sign a written contract, and register them under national rules. Sanctions and travel advisories may affect some arrangements, so check current rules.

Step 1: The Worker Needs Authorisation

Foreign workers need both work authorisation and a right to reside. A job offer from your company is the starting point, and you normally handle the permit.

Step 2: Secure the Permit

You arrange a work permit or patent through the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD), and the worker obtains the matching visa. Confirm the document allows the specific job before they start. Sanctions and travel advisories may affect some arrangements, so check current rules.

Step 3: Contract, Social Security, and Records

• Sign a written contract on terms no worse than for local staff.
• Register the worker for social security and tax under national rules.
• Keep copies of the permit, the residence document, and the contract.

Penalties for Illegal Employment

Employing a worker without the required authorisation can result in fines and other sanctions under Russian law. Verify status before work begins.

Avoiding Scams and Staying Compliant

Never pay or accept upfront fees for a guaranteed permit, and avoid providers who promise to bypass the rules. Verify every document yourself, use the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD), and consider a compliance check before you hire. Legitimate processes do not require secret payments.

Official Sources

Confirm current rules, fees, and penalties with the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) and the Russian labour and tax authorities, as procedures change.