The next few days are critical: what you do now will determine how smoothly you can begin working and adapting to life in Russia.

📝 Step 1: Migration Registration

Russian law requires all foreign citizens to register their presence in the country within 7 working days after arrival.

● If you stay at a hotel or dormitory, your employer will usually register you automatically.

● If you rent an apartment, the landlord is responsible for registration.

Always ask for a confirmation of registration — printed or digital.
It may be required by police, employers, or at medical facilities.

❗ Some landlords refuse to register foreign tenants or may ask for extra fees.
Always clarify this before signing a rental agreement.

🚫 Avoid fake or unofficial registrations — they are illegal and can lead to deportation.

🏠 Before Renting a Room or Apartment

Before you move in, ask:

● Can you register me officially at this address?

● Will the rent change because of registration?

● Will I get a signed agreement?

This protects you from future problems.

💱 Step 2: Exchange Currency and Open a Bank Account

🪙 Important: Indian rupees and many other currencies are not always accepted in Russia.
Bring US dollars or euros — these will get you the best exchange rates.

Change only a small amount at the airport for immediate needs.
Larger amounts should be exchanged at licensed offices or banks in town.

A Russian bank account is required to receive your salary and pay for services.
Most employers register you under a salary project — they help open an account with their partner bank.

🏦 Popular banks: Sberbank, VTB, Alfabank, T-Bank, Gazprombank
💡 Ask your coordinator which one to use — most have English-language apps and support.

🩺 Step 3: Medical Check and Fingerprinting

Before starting work, every foreign worker must:

● Complete a medical examination

● Submit fingerprints (dactyloscopy)

These are legal requirements.
Your coordinator will help schedule appointments — don’t delay!

🧪 Bring your passport and migration card with you.

🧾 Step 4: Get Your INN and SNILS

To work legally in Russia, you need:

● INN — your personal tax number

● SNILS — your social insurance number (for medical care, pensions, etc.)

Your employer or migration center will help apply.
These documents take 7–14 days to process and are valid for life.

📌 Keep digital copies. You’ll use them often — for banking, legal work, medical access.

📱 Step 5: Get a Russian SIM Card

A local mobile number is essential for daily life in Russia — from messaging your employer to accessing banking apps and food delivery.

Since 2023, all SIM cards must be registered to your Gosuslugi (Госуслуги) account — Russia’s national e-government portal.

You will need:

● Your passport

● Migration documents

● Help from your mobile operator or employer

📌 Recommended mobile providers: MTS, Beeline, Megafon
📲 Prepaid plans are available. You can top up via apps, terminals, or supermarkets.

👷 Step 6: First Days on the Job

Once all documents and procedures are complete, you can begin work. Expect to:

● Sign your employment contract

● Receive a work uniform and/or tools

● Learn workplace rules and safety

● Meet your supervisor and team

🎯 Be on time, respectful, and ready to learn — this creates a strong first impression.

📸 Save Digital Copies

Take photos of:

● Your passport

● Visa

● Migration card

● Registration document

Save these in your email or cloud. If you lose the originals, these copies may save you.

✅ Daily Survival Tips

● Keep document copies with you

● Use local transport cards (e.g. Troika in Moscow)

● Dress clean and professionally

● Stay alert in public spaces

● Be polite and respectful — always