Russia Announces Eligible Countries for new Shared Values Visa Program for Foreigners

The Russian government has released a list of 47 countries and territories whose citizens are eligible for its newly introduced "Shared Values Visa" (SVV) program.

Approved by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on September 17, 2024, the SVV offers a streamlined path to Russian residency for foreigners who align with the country's "traditional values."

What is the Russia Shared Values Visa Program?

Announced in August, the SVV simplifies the residency application process by waiving the usual language and history test requirements for temporary residence permits.

Additionally, the program is exempt from the quota system that typically limits the number of foreign residents.

The Shared Values Visa (SVV) program welcomes applicants from a diverse range of nations, including major Western countries and their allies in North America, Western Europe, parts of Asia, and Oceania. Notable participants include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and most member states of the European Union, as well as Japan and South Korea, underscoring the program's aim to attract individuals from these key regions.

What are Eligible Nationalities for the Shared Values Visa?

Below is the complete list of nationalities eligible for the SVV:

• Europe and North America:
  • Austria,
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • Netherlands
  • North Macedonia
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • San Marino
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
  • United States of America

• Asia and Oceania:
  • Australia
  • Japan
  • New Zealand
  • Republic of Korea (South Korea)
  • Singapore
  • Taiwan
• Others:
  • Albania
  • Andorra
  • Bahamas
  • Canada
  • Micronesia
  • Montenegro
  • Ukraine

The inclusion of smaller nations like Micronesia indicates a broad approach to attracting residents.

Why did Russia Add New Countries to the new Shared Values Visa Program?

The SVV's launch aligns with Russia's broader strategic shift toward Asia and internal development efforts, including plans to expand trade infrastructure to the east and south and to secure vital routes like the Northern Sea Route, which will require extensive construction projects.

The program aims to meet Russia's future workforce needs by attracting foreign talent and individuals seeking new opportunities. It extends eligibility to both citizens and permanent residents of the listed countries.

In the near term, the list of eligible nations is expected to remain unchanged as the program undergoes evaluation over the next few years. Adjustments to the program or expansions of the eligibility list may be considered after this initial assessment period.