Moving to Russia: What you need to know about moving to the largest country on Earth

So you are thinking about moving to Russia, the largest country in the world. Filled with history and rich in culture, the once communist country is now a capitalist one where people own private property, their businesses make profits, and workers are paid wages. Contrary to popular belief, while communism is the official opposition to Vladimir Putin’s “United Russia”, no one is getting jailed for speaking out and news sources are not getting shut down. If you prepare, moving to Russia can be seamless, and we can help you get there.

Moving to any country can be a challenging task, however, moving to Russia can prove to be exponentially tougher because of the strict rules and regulations imposed on foreigners. The last thing you want is for your possessions to be lost in some airport while you wait for weeks without a bed to sleep on.

For starters, you won’t get in the country without the right immigration and shipping documentation when arriving at customs. The documents should be sent one month in advance. Speak to your Destination Agent if you uncertain about anything regarding your paperwork. Better be safe than sorry.

Paperwork
-Valid passport + and a photocopy
-Russian visa and a photocopy
-Power of Attorney, three photocopies (for moving company/Destination Agent to carry out clearance formalities)
-Letter to customs from Russian employer, three photocopies (prepared by shipper’s employer)
-Russian TD10 Customs Form (Declaration for Unaccompanied Luggage)
-Packing list
-Temporary import obligation (for duty free import of surface shipments only)

Shipping Regulations

The process for shipping is significantly more complicated than other countries, so following these tips is recommended. Keep the following in mind.

Russian customs rules are subject to change at any time and without prior notice
It is advisable to not go through customs by yourself unless you speak Russian and are knowledgeable about the process.
All shipments can be inspected, which can result in extra terminal handling and storage charges.
Household goods can be imported to Russia duty free unless they are on the prohibited and restricted list.

Prohibited Items

The majority of countries around the world have a list of items that are completely prohibited when entering the country. Russia is no different. These are the things you are not allowed to bring into Russia.

-Fish and products made of fish
-Narcotics
-Fruits and vegetables
-Dairy and meat from Armenia and Georgia
-Weapons and ammunition
-Any material that goes against the Russian Federation
-Pornography

Restricted Items

While some items are prohibited entirely, some have restrictions relative to size, weight and amounts. These are the restricted items upon entering Russia.

-Live animals require a permit
-Dairy and meat products: Quantities are limited. They must be in their original packaging.
-Cigarettes: Your choice of 400 cigarettes, 200 cigarillos, 100 cigars or 500 grams of tobacco are allowed duty free. Anything more than that will be taxed.
-Alcohol: You must be 21 years old and you are limited to 2 liters duty free.
-Caviar: 250 grams duty free
-Limited amounts of cash in foreign currencies
-Medication requires a prescription

Motor Vehicle Regulations

When moving to Russia, you might need to bring your car over as well instead of buying or renting a new one. Their import duties may differ depending on the make or model of your car. Foreigners are allowed to get a temporary permit for their vehicles which are valid for one year without being subject to tax. After that initial year, they must be re-exported. If you want to ship your car over to Russia, you will need the following paperwork.

-Power of Attorney, three notarized photocopies
-Letter to customs, three photocopies
-Photocopies of passport, visa and registration
-Original vehicle registration document

Pets and Animals

If you have a pet and absolutely want to bring it over to Russia, there is no problem, but you will need the proper documentation to guarantee that your friend makes it through customs.

-Vaccination records
-Veterinary health certificate bearing a seal of the local Board of Health. This document must be issued no more than 10 days before arriving to Russia.
-Import license
-Identification: Tattoo or microchip
-Animals other than dogs and cats require special import permission from the Russian Ministry of Agriculture

If you have any questions regarding your move to Russia, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Embassy of Russia. They will iron out any concerns you might have. Contact one of the two offices here.

Embassy of Russia in Ottawa, Canada
285 Charlotte Street
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1N-8L5
Phone: +1-613-235-4341, +1-613-236-1413
Fax: +1-613-236-6342
Web Site: http://www.rusembcanada.mid.ru/
Email: info@rusembassy.ca

Russian Consulate in Montreal, Canada
3685 Avenue de Musée
Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3G-2E1
Phone: +1-514-843-5901, +1-514-842-5343
Fax: +1-514-842-2012
Web Site: http://www.montreal.mid.ru
Email: consulat_mtl@bellnet.ca

Moving to Russia
When moving from Canada to Russia, choosing the best overseas moving company is crucial in ensuring a smooth transition to your new home or business. Orbit International Moving Logistics is by far the best and most experienced company in its field. With our extensive experience in sending containers to Russia, we can offer you and your family important information about your potential move and make the transition seamless.

Orbit International Moving Logistics was started by two friends who go way back. Over the years, they gathered valuable extensive experience relocating their customers worldwide by using Ocean Freight and Air Cargo. As Orbit became established, they realized that certain services needed consistency. The level of service: free estimates, all-inclusive rates, fast communication. Whether you are moving your family or your business, Orbit International Moving Logistics is the way to go for your international moves. Whether it be a door-to-door move, door to port, full sized containers, roll-on roll-off, or custom crates, we are here to help you. Please contact us for more information and “Discover the Difference with Orbit”.