MOSCOW: Russia’s foreign ministry said it has launched a digital service allowing foreigners to apply to live and work in the country, according to a post on social media platform X on Wednesday.
The country has faced acute labor shortages across multiple sectors since the start of the war in Ukraine. Hundreds of thousands joined the military, while defense industries have drawn workers away from civilian enterprises.
The country has also seen an outflow of workers since 2022, with many leaving Russia amid tighter political controls and restrictions following the start of the war.
The program, “Time to live in Russia,” targets foreigners with “in-demand skills” who show “respect” for what it called “traditional Russian values,” the ministry added on X.
However, the ministry’s post linked to a website that on Wednesday returned an “error 404 – page not found” message.
Eligible applicants include scientists, entrepreneurs, athletes, creative professionals, talented students and graduates, investors and other specialists deemed in demand, the website explaining the program said.
According to the “Time to live in Russia” website, applicants must submit an application and a short CV, provide documents confirming their qualifications, undergo an online interview and await a decision, with a maximum review period of 125 days.
Successful applicants are assigned a personal manager to assist with visas, border procedures and accommodation.
