Note: There is currently unrest in the country of Russia. So it is not advisable to go there to work.
Russia, being one of the largest countries in the world, has a diverse range of industries and sectors that offer employment to foreign workers. From oil and gas to IT and engineering, there are many job options available for Filipinos with the right skills and qualifications.
However, finding a job in Russia as a foreigner can be challenging, as there are several legal and administrative procedures to follow. In this blog, we will provide you with some tips and insights on how to search for jobs in Russia as a Filipino, including information on work permits, visa requirements, and job search platforms. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Requirements
When applying for jobs in Russia, there are several requirements that job seekers need to meet. These requirements may vary depending on the industry, the specific job position, and the company you are applying to. However, here are some general requirements that you should keep in mind:
- Work Permit: If you are a foreign national, you need to have a valid work permit to work in Russia. You can obtain a work permit from the Russian embassy or consulate in your home country or from the Federal Migration Service in Russia.
- Language Skills: You should have good command of the Russian language since most job postings are in Russian, and most companies require their employees to communicate in Russian.
- Education: Most job positions in Russia require a university degree, so you should have the necessary educational qualifications for the job you are applying for.
- Work Experience: Some jobs require work experience in the related field, so having relevant experience in the industry is an advantage.
- CV and Cover Letter: You should prepare a well-written CV and cover letter that highlight your education, work experience, and skills.
- References: Some employers may require references from previous employers or professional contacts. Make sure you have a list of references ready if needed.
- Interview: Be prepared for an interview with the potential employer. Research the company and the job position beforehand, and be ready to answer questions about your qualifications and experience.
Other requirements can be seen in here à Basic Requirements.
Qualifications
To increase your chances of standing out when searching and applying for work in Russia, it’s important to possess certain qualifications. These may include strong language skills, a university degree or equivalent qualification, relevant work experience, specific skills and abilities related to the job, adaptability to new experiences and cultural differences, professionalism, and networking. Employers in Russia often prioritize candidates with these qualifications, so highlighting them can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Important Steps
Finding a job in Russia can be a rewarding experience for Filipinos looking for new opportunities abroad. However, the process of job searching in a foreign country can be challenging, especially if you are unfamiliar with the local job market and application procedures.
Here are some important steps to consider when searching for a job in Russia as a Filipino:
I. Job Search
With the advancement of technology, job searching in Russia has become more accessible for Filipinos. Online platforms provide a convenient way to search and apply for jobs from anywhere in the world. If you are a Filipino looking to find a job in Russia, here are some online platforms that can assist you in your job search:
Hh.ru
hh.ru provides a range of features to help job seekers find employment opportunities, including job alerts, resume writing tips, and career advice. The website also offers a variety of tools and resources for employers, including applicant tracking systems, resume database access, and employer branding services.
Here are the steps to search for jobs in Russia using hh.ru:
1. Visit the hh.ru website by clicking the link above. Click ‘English’ to translate the page from Russian to English.
2. Enter a job title or keyword, along with the location, industry, and other relevant criteria in the search bar. ‘Engineer’ is entered on the search bar for an example. Click on the “Найти” (Find) button to see a list of relevant job vacancies.
3. Use the filters on the left-hand side of the search results page to refine your search based on job type, salary, experience level, company size, and other criteria.
4. Click on a job listing to view the details, requirements, and application process for the position.
5. Apply for the job by following the application instructions provided by the employer.
6. Create a personal profile on the hh.ru website to upload your resume and receive job alerts based on your preferences.
7. Follow up with potentials employers after submitting your application to express your interest and inquire about the status of your applications.
Trudvsem
The website offers a variety of features, including a job board where users can search for open positions by keyword, locations, and job type. Job seekers can also create a personal profile and upload their resume, which can be viewed by potentials employers. Employers can post job vacancies and search for qualified candidates based on their skills and experience.
Trudvsem is a website that provides job listings and other employment-related information in Russia. To find jobs using Trudvsem, you can follow these steps:
1. Go to the Trudvsem website (https://trudvsem.ru/) . Click ‘English’ if there is a pop up like the one in red circle.
2. Click on the “Job Search” on the top menu.
3. You will be directed to the vacancies page where you can search for jobs by selecting the industry or job category you’re interested in. Just click the search bar the red arrow is pointing to.
4. You can also refine your search by specifying the location and salary range.
5. Once you’ve found a job that you’re interested in, click on the job title to see the details of the job posting.
6. If you’re interested in applying for the job, follow the instructions on the job posting to submit your application.
Trudvsem is a useful resource for finding jobs in Russia. However, keep in mind that there may be other job search websites and resources that you can use to find jobs in Russia as well.
DMW Website
https://www.dmw.gov.ph/approved-job-orders
A new website has been made to provide accurate and current information about the Department of Migrant Workers office, including programs, services, goals, and job opportunities. The website is easy to use, and visitors can easily find what they need by searching or browsing the different sections.
Follow the steps below to search for jobs in Russia using the DMW website:
1. Click the link above to open the website.
2. Scroll down until you see a search bar. Enter ‘Russia’.
3. Job lists will be displayed.
II. Get a Work Permit/ Work Visa
It is challenging for people from other nations to work in Russia. They must obtain special documents, including a visa, which can be challenging and take a lot of time. Even if they follow all the procedures, there are occasionally restrictions on the number of visas that can be issued, so they might still be unsuccessful. The process of obtaining a work visa is particularly difficult and expensive.
Russian Work Visa Types
To work in Russia, one needs a visa and work authorization. You can apply for a 90-day single-entry visa or a multiple-entry visa that corresponds to the duration of their work permit. A standard work permit is available to citizens of some nations, and skilled workers earning high salaries can apply for a quicker work permit that lasts three years and entitles their family members to visas as well. Citizens of Commonwealth of Independent States nations do not require a visa to enter Russia. Within 30 days of arriving, they can apply for a work patent that will give them 60 days to find employment and last for a year (and can be renewed). However, they must succeed in a test on the laws, history, and language of Russia.
Requirements to Obtain Russia Work Visa
In addition to completing a work visa application, employees will also need to provide:
- A passport
- One passport photo
- The letter of invitation
- A letter from you with job details, work location, and contract date
- A medical certificate
- A color passport photo
- A passport or other valid ID
- Copies of necessary qualification certificates
- A medical certificate demonstrating no diseases
- A receipt for the payment of all fees.
Process in Getting a Russia Work Visa and Permit
To get a work visa in Russia, your employees need to fill out an application and give a photo. They also need a passport that will be valid for at least six months after they enter Russia. Employers should write a letter saying why they’re coming and that you’ll host them. Employees need to go to a doctor to be tested for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and leprosy. After the tests, they can give their visa application in-person or through a travel agency and pay the fees.
III. Preparation in Moving to Russia
Preparing to move to Russia can be an exciting and challenging experience. As the largest country in the world, Russia offers a unique cultural experience with a rich history and diverse population. However, it’s important to prepare carefully to ensure a smooth transition. Some important factors to consider include language, cultural differences, and legal requirements such as visas and work permits. With the right preparation, moving to Russia can be an enriching and rewarding experience.
So, here are some things that you need to know before moving to Russia for work.
Language: In Russia, Russian is the official language, but there are 35 other languages and 100 minority languages. English is not commonly spoken, so it is recommended to learn some Russian for business purposes. To become an English teacher in Russia, immerse yourself in the language and learn Cyrillic. Having qualifications in TEFL and academic subjects can make it easier to find work in international education. The typical monthly salary for English teachers is around US$1500-2000, and a work visa is required.
Accommodation: Expats commonly rent property in Russia, with apartments in high-rise blocks and flatshares being popular choices. Rental agreements must be written in both Russian and the tenant’s native language, and typically last between one and three years. Cash payments are sometimes used, and tenants can sublet or transfer their rights to the property. Rental agreements for one year or more should be registered with the State Registration Office. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is 24,037.41 RUB, while a three-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs 43,152.47 RUB per month. Beware of potential property scams and misleading advertisements.
Moving the Belongings: When relocating to a new country, it is critical to consider whether you will need assistance shipping your belongings and to obtain quotes from multiple companies. Paying a fee for the removals company to pack your belongings may be worthwhile. Before accepting a quote, make sure it includes everything you require, such as packing, unpacking, and disassembling and reassembling furniture. Get an estimated arrival date for your belongings as well as contact information for agents in the destination country. Check your insurance coverage for valuable or sentimental items, and keep an inventory of your possessions in case of a claim. Make arrangements for customs and importation documents, and keep important documents in your carry-on.
Register for Healthcare: Russia has a two-tiered health-care system that includes both mandatory public and private insurance. The country is known for having a low standard of healthcare and was ranked by Bloomberg as the world’s 95th healthiest country. OMI/OMC, the state health insurance system, covers all citizens and residents, but it has limitations and is not transferable. Even if you are unemployed, you may be eligible for public healthcare under certain conditions. You must provide your passport, residence permit, and proof of address to register for healthcare.
Opening a Bank Account: The ruble is the currency of Russia, and it is available in banknotes of various denominations ranging from five to 5,000 rubles, as well as coins of various values. ATMs are widely available in cities and can be used 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Foreign credit cards will charge interest on cash withdrawals, and exchange booths offer better exchange rates than cash withdrawals. When carrying cash, prioritize your safety and try to avoid exchange fees and unfavorable exchange rates by using debit and credit cards. It is recommended to open a local bank account for a medium to long-term stay in Russia in order to improve credit acceptance and enjoy lower interest rates. Russian bank executives are aware that the industry must be cleaned up or face consequences.
Money Transfer: People living in other countries can send money from one country to another via international bank transfers or regular transactions. These transfers typically take 3-7 days and require IBAN, BIC, or SWIFT codes. The cost of money transfer varies depending on the bank, but sending larger amounts is usually less expensive. Currency brokers can provide better rates and greater flexibility than traditional banks, but you must be cautious and thoroughly investigate their background before using them. Using currency brokers or withdrawing money from ATMs can be advantageous. You may get better exchange rates, a free Market Watch/Order Service, and the ability to lock in exchange rates in advance, which can save you up to 4% on the exchange rate alone if you use a foreign exchange broker.
It is essential to obtain the necessary documents, such as a visa and work permit, and to learn about the culture, language, and customs of the country. It is also important to arrange for housing, transportation, and healthcare in advance. Additionally, having a basic understanding of the Russian currency, banking system, and legal requirements can help to make the transition smoother. By taking these steps, individuals can prepare themselves for a successful move to Russia.
IV. Moving to Russia
Here are the things that you should do while moving to Russia.
Arrival at the airport
You should arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights and 1 hour before departure for domestic flights. Check-in closes 40 minutes before departure. Please keep in mind that many items are prohibited for air travel, and there are special rules for hand luggage that you should specify in advance with the airline.
Arrival Procedures
When passing through passport control, you should answer all questions calmly and politely (the purpose of your visit). When passing through passport control, you should have your passport, the university’s Letter of Invitation, medical insurance, and return tickets (passport control officer may request them).
Video: Buhay Ofw Russia Mga Trabaho ng Mga Pinoy sa Moscow
This video include jobs available for Filipinos in Russia as well as stories about the OFW life.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this FAQ, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about searching and applying for jobs in Russia.
1. Can I work in Russia without knowing Russian?
Although there are many stories of people going to work in Russia without first taking Russian courses online or speaking a word of Russian, we advise against going on an expat adventure unless there is a specific opportunity waiting for you.
2. Is Russia a good place to live and work?
Crime rates in Russia are declining and have dropped significantly over the last two decades. As a result, expats in Russia will feel safe. Despite lower crime rates, one should always be aware of the dangers of mugging and petty crime.
3. Do jobs in Russia pay well?
Employees working in Russia earn salaries ranging from 25,106.00 RUB (low salaries, employees’ actual wages may be even lower) to 118,691.00 RUB (high salaries, actual salaries can be even higher). The total monthly salary, including bonuses, is shown here.
4. How many hours do Russians work?
In the fourth quarter of 2022, Russians aged 15 and up worked 38.5 hours per week on average, an increase from the previous quarter. Over the course of 2021, the average working time decreased.
5. How many Pinoy are there in Russia?
According to the Philippine Embassy in Moscow, there were “around 6,000” Filipinos in Russia as of 2017.
Summary
To wrap up, if you’re a Filipino looking to explore job opportunities in Russia, this article can provide some valuable guidance. It offers tips on how to browse through job vacancies on popular online platforms like hh.ru, trudvsem.ru, and the DMW website. The article also gives insight into the potential difficulties that come with obtaining a work visa in Russia and explains the different types of visas available. Lastly, it outlines the requirements that applicants need to meet when applying for a Russia work visa. All in all, hooping that this article will be a helpful resource for Filipinos who are eager to pursue their careers in Russia.
References
https://www.globalization-partners.com/globalpedia/russia-employer-of-record/work-visas/#gref
https://www.expatfocus.com/russia/moving/how-to-move-to-russia
https://www.rusvuz.com/arrival-airport-pickup/