How to become a Russian citizen

Article as at 3 November 2026

If you are moving to Russia for work or a longer stay, you may need to take an immigration exam. It covers Russian as a foreign language, Russian history and the basics of Russian law. Foreign nationals and stateless people commonly take it for a temporary residence permit (RVP), a residence permit (VNZh), a work permit or an work patent — a type of work authorisation.

Only state institutions on the government’s approved list may conduct the exam and issue certificates. You must take it at one of their officially authorised test centres.

Before paying, read our companion guide to check whether an exemption could save you a test.

Book the right level

There are separate exam levels for work, temporary residence and a residence permit. Tell the centre exactly which document you are applying for so that you book the correct test.

Ask about available dates and the documents to bring. Usually, it is your passport and its notarised Russian translation, migration card and registration details.

The exam fee is 3,800 rubles for work permit or patent applications and 5,900 rubles for RVP or VNZh applications.

Prepare for all 3 subjects

Start with the official sample tests and question bank published by FIPI, Russia’s Federal Institute of Pedagogical Measurements. Choose materials for your exam level and set aside time for history and law as well as Russian.

The tests use computers. The residence versions also include speaking tasks, so practise answering simple questions aloud.

The pass mark depends on the exam level. You must reach both the minimum total and the minimum score in each subject. FIPI sets the following requirements:


Within the Russian language section, you must also meet these minimum scores:

• Work permit or patent: 2 points for listening.
• RVP: 4 points for listening and 3 for speaking.
• VNZh: 4 points for listening and 4 for speaking.

Afterwards

Certificates for work and temporary residence are valid for 3 years. A VNZh-level certificate has no fixed expiry date.


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