Obtaining Russian Citizenship by Investment or Marriage: A Guide
Russia is a beautiful and diverse country that offers opportunities for business, investment, and family life. Although the process of obtaining Russian citizenship may seem daunting, it is not impossible. There are two main ways to obtain Russian citizenship – by investment or marriage. This guide will help you understand the eligibility criteria and the step-by-step process for obtaining Russian citizenship through these routes.
Obtaining Russian Citizenship by Investment
Foreign nationals who invest in Russian businesses or real estate projects are eligible for Russian citizenship. To obtain Russian citizenship by investment, you need to meet the following eligibility criteria:
1. Invest in a Russian business or real estate project – The minimum investment required for Russian citizenship is RUB10 million (approximately USD133,000).
2. Hold the investment for at least three years – You must keep your investment in Russia for a minimum of three years before applying for Russian citizenship.
3. Have a clean criminal record – Applicants should have no criminal records in any country.
4. Have a good command of the Russian language – Applicants should have an acceptable command of the Russian language (level B1 or higher).
5. Be financially self-sufficient – Before you can obtain Russian citizenship, you must provide evidence of your financial self-sufficiency.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Russian Citizenship by Investment
1. Engage a local Russian company specializing in Russian citizenship by investment programs.
2. Make the required investment in a Russian business or real estate project, and ensure that the investment is held for a minimum of three years.
3. Apply for temporary residence permit – After you have maintained your investment in Russia for a minimum of six months, you can apply for a temporary residence permit that is valid for three years. The temporary residence permit is usually granted within six months.
4. Apply for permanent residence permit – After holding a temporary residence permit for at least two years, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.
5. Apply for Russian Citizenship – After holding a permanent residence permit for at least one year, you can apply for Russian citizenship.
Obtaining Russian Citizenship by Marriage
Foreign nationals who are married to Russian citizens are eligible for Russian citizenship. To obtain Russian citizenship by marriage, you need to meet the following eligibility criteria:
1. Be married to a Russian citizen – You must be legally married to a Russian citizen for at least three years before applying for Russian citizenship.
2. Be of good character – Applicants should have no criminal record in any country.
3. Have a good command of the Russian language – Applicants should have an acceptable command of the Russian language (level B1 or higher).
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Russian Citizenship by Marriage
1. Apply for temporary residence permit – After you have been married to a Russian citizen for at least three years, you can apply for a temporary residence permit that is valid for three years. The temporary residence permit is usually granted within six months.
2. Apply for permanent residence permit – After holding a temporary residence permit for at least two years, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.
3. Apply for Russian Citizenship – After holding a permanent residence permit for at least one year, you can apply for Russian citizenship.
FAQs
Q. How long does it take to obtain Russian citizenship by investment or marriage?
A. The process of obtaining Russian citizenship by investment or marriage can take around five years.
Q. Can I apply for Russian citizenship if I have a criminal record?
A. No. Applicants with a criminal record in any country are not eligible for Russian citizenship.
Q. Is there any limit on the number of foreign nationals who can obtain Russian citizenship by investment or marriage?
A. No. There is no limit on the number of foreign nationals who can obtain Russian citizenship by investment or marriage.
Q. Can I obtain Russian citizenship if I do not speak Russian?
A. No. Applicants should have an acceptable command of the Russian language (level B1 or higher) to be eligible for Russian citizenship.
Q. Is it possible to obtain Russian citizenship through other routes?
A. Yes. You can obtain Russian citizenship through other routes, such as birth, adoption, or naturalization.
In conclusion, obtaining Russian citizenship by investment or marriage is a long and complicated process. It is important to engage a local Russian company specializing in Russian citizenship by investment programs or legal counsel to assist you throughout the process and ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria. The benefits of obtaining Russian citizenship include the ability to work and live in Russia, access to Russian healthcare and social services, and the ability to travel freely within Russia without a visa.