Foreign students who graduate from Russian universities have a unique opportunity to obtain Russian citizenship through a simplified procedure. This is an important step for those planning to build a career and live in Russia long-term.
Russian law provides a simplified citizenship acquisition process for graduates of Russian universities, provided they completed full-time studies and have worked in their field for at least one year. This offers an accelerated alternative to the standard procedure with significant benefits in processing.
Step 1. Ensure You Meet the Requirements
To start the process, you must:
- Be over 18 years old.
- Hold a diploma from a Russian specialized university (bachelor’s, master’s, postgraduate, etc.).
- Be a graduate of a full-time study program (part-time study is not eligible).
- Have at least one year of officially confirmed work experience in Russia related to your specialty.
- Have a Russian residence permit (RVP).
Step 2. Prepare the Required Documents
You will need:
- Application for Russian citizenship (2 copies).
- Foreign passport and, if available, internal passport (copies and originals).
- Original diploma and a notarized copy.
- Employment record book or other documents confirming at least 1 year of work experience in the specialty.
- Residence permit.
- Birth certificate (if available).
- Marriage certificate and documents for any change of name (if applicable).
- Medical certificates confirming absence of HIV, serious infectious diseases, and drug addiction.
- Information from the Russian Pension Fund (if applicable).
- Photographs sized 3×4 cm (usually 3–4 pieces).
- Receipt of state fee payment (usually 3500 rubles).
- All foreign documents must be translated into Russian and notarized.
Step 3. Obtain a Residence Permit (if you don’t already have one)
A residence permit is a mandatory condition to apply for citizenship through this procedure. Applications without it will not be processed.
Step 4. Submit the Application
Submit your complete application package to the territorial office of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) migration department, a multifunctional center (MFC), or via the Gosuslugi portal. It is recommended to apply at your place of registration.
Step 5. Wait for the Decision (up to 3 months, with possible extension to 6 months)
During this period, the MVD authorities verify the submitted information and documents. Additional confirmations or interviews may be required.
Step 6. Take the Oath of Allegiance to Russia
Upon positive decision, you will be invited to a formal ceremony to take the oath of allegiance to Russia. This step is mandatory.
Step 7. Receive Your Russian Internal Passport
After taking the oath, submit documents for obtaining your internal Russian passport — the key identification document for Russian citizens.
Where to Apply?
The main territorial migration office of the MVD at your place of registration is the primary submission point. You may also apply through multifunctional centers (MFC).
Important Notes and Possible Reasons for Refusal
Your application may be denied in cases of:
- Fake documents or false information.
- Criminal record or ongoing criminal prosecution.
- Links to extremist or terrorist organizations.
- Medical contraindications regarding your health.
- Violations of Russian legislation.
Tips from Global Education
- Consult a migration lawyer before applying.
- Check updated requirements on the official MVD website in advance.
- Prepare documents carefully — correctly completed documents reduce processing time.
- Keep copies and payment receipts.
Conclusion
Obtaining Russian citizenship based on a diploma from a Russian university is a real and advantageous opportunity for foreign graduates. By following our guide, you will significantly increase your chances of successful registration. Global Education is always ready to provide professional support at all stages of admission to Russian universities.
If you want to learn more about admission to Russian universities or get a consultation on citizenship issues, contact us today!