Frequently Asked Questions

Foreign citizens coming to Russia can face certain difficulties unless they first review the legislation for opening companies in the countries. It is also a common fact to ask a law firm in Russia what the requirements for starting a business are. Foreign citizens have asked our Russian lawyers a lot of questions over the years and here are the answers to the most frequently asked.

1.       What are the steps of business litigation cases in Russia?

Business litigation is usually handled by the Russian Courts. Depending on the matter the main steps in litigation before courts are: the pleading, the discovery, the pre-trial, the trial phases, based on which the judge will rule.

2.       What are the most important legal aspects I should know about company formation in Russia?

In order to open a company in Russia you must abide by the regulations set out in the Commercial Code and follow the main steps for company registration: choosing the type of company, having the Memorandum and Articles of Association prepared, submitting them with the Russian Trade Register and obtaining the Certificate of Incorporation.

3.       What are the basic legal requirements for foreign investors wanting to invest in Russia?

Depending on the type of company and most of all the industry one wants to register in Russia there could special requirements. Among these share capital requirements or obtaining special licenses. For detailed information you can ask our Russian attorneys.

4.       Will I need special permits or licenses for my new company in Russia?

Depending on the type of activity your company will undertake, there are industries that require applying for special business licenses.

5.       What is the procedure of debt collection in Russia?

Debt collection proceedings are usually handled by collection agencies in Russia, but the procedure can also be settled in court.

6.       Do you need a visa to enter Russia? How can I obtain it?

Yes, foreign citizens travelling to Russia are required to apply for a visa. Due to strict requirements it is best to get in touch with a Russian law firm in order to find out what these are.

7.       What are the steps I must follow in order to obtain citizenship in Russia?

In order to apply for Russian citizenship one must have lived in the country for five consecutive years.

8.       What are the requirements regarding employment in Russia?

Foreign citizens must apply for a work permit when coming to work in Russia. The procedure implies the Russian company to apply for the work visa on behalf of the employee.

9.       Are there any special requirements for marriage and/or divorce in Russia?

Foreign citizens can get married in Russia provided they pay a marriage registration fee and announce the local City Hall at least one month before the ceremony. Divorce proceedings require the spouses to file a marriage dissolution request with the local register office. Divorce procedures can also be settled in court and the procedure could take up to six months.

10.   How are individuals and companies taxed in Russia?

The Russian taxation system imposes a 20% tax to companies and an income of 30% on non-resident citizens. Russian residents are subject to a 13% tax rate.

The video below shows the most frequent questions our attorneys in Russia receive:

For detailed information about immigrating or opening a company in the country, please contact our Russian law firm.