How a US Citizen with Dual US and Russian Citizenship Can Seamlessly Live in Russia Long-Term

For many individuals, obtaining Russian citizenship and living in Russia long-term or permanently is a viable option. This article provides a detailed guide on the process for a US citizen with dual citizenship, specifically a Russian passport, to live, work, and study in Russia. It also covers the necessary steps, registration requirements, and the key restrictions upon Russian citizenship.

Entry to Russia with a Valid Russian Passport

The process of entering Russia with a Russian passport is relatively straightforward. A US citizen with a valid Russian passport can enter Russia without any time limit and enjoy the freedom to work and study. Furthermore, a Russian citizen cannot be expelled from the country, making it a stable and secure choice.

Using a Russian Travel Passport

A Russian travel passport allows entry from all countries. However, entry with an internal Russian passport is only possible from a few specific regions, including Kazakhstan, Belarus, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia.

While an expired document may not prevent entry, it is advisable to address any expiration as soon as possible to avoid potential fines.

Key Actions Upon Arrival

Upon arrival, the following steps are necessary:

Obtain an Internal Russian Passport: If you do not have a valid internal Russian passport, you must apply for one immediately. The processing time is typically up to 5 working days. Register Your Place of Residence or Stay: If you have not done so before, make sure to register your place of residence or stay. If you are staying in a hotel, the hotel will handle this for you. Submit an Application for Foreign Citizenship: If you have not done so before, submit an application confirming your foreign citizenship status. You can now use the Russian government service centers, “My Documents,” to make these processes easier and more efficient.

Additional Steps to Simplify Your Life in Russia

Once you have the necessary documentation, follow these additional steps to make your life in Russia smoother:

Acquire Other Russian Documents: Get your mandatory medical insurance, pension policy, driver’s license, and other necessary documents. Register on the Government Services Website: Sign up on the Портал госуслуг Российской Федерации to access various services and functions online, including submitting applications, receiving services, and notifications from government bodies.

Restrictions for Holding Dual Citizenship

While you can live, work, and study in Russia as a US citizen with dual citizenship, there are certain restrictions. Here are some of the key limitations:

Career Restrictions: You are not allowed to work as a state or municipal employee, judge, or notary. Election Restrictions: You will not be able to be elected as a deputy, governor, mayor, president, or take part in elections with a decisive vote. Service Restrictions: You cannot serve in law enforcement agencies, prosecutors' offices, internal affairs bodies, customs authorities, or the Federal Security Service. Additionally, you are not allowed to hold positions related to access to state secrets.

What to Do if You Do Not Have a Valid Russian Passport

If you do not have a valid Russian passport, you have a few options to obtain one or prove your citizenship:

Contact the Russian Consulate: Submit documents showing your previous Russian citizenship, such as a damaged or expired passport, certificate of Russian citizenship, or birth certificate with a citizenship stamp. Provide Witnesses: If you cannot provide the required documents, you may present two witnesses who can confirm your identity and Russian citizenship. Alternatively, you can request a request to the Russian internal affairs bodies. Obtain a Russian Visa and Apply for a Passport: Come to Russia on a Russian visa and apply to the internal affairs authorities to obtain a Russian passport if you lost your original one or had never acquired one. Submit an Application for Citizenship: If you believe you have Russian citizenship, submit an application to the Russian consular offices or internal affairs authorities in Russia to establish or recognize your Russian citizenship status.

Conclusion

With the right documentation and steps, a US citizen with dual citizenship can live, work, and learn in Russia long-term. Understanding the entry process, necessary registrations, and potential restrictions will help ensure a smoother transition and more fulfilling experience living in the beautiful and diverse country of Russia.