Invitation for a Visa to Russia for an Accompanying Family Member
An invitation for a visa for accompanying family members is an important document that allows close relatives of a foreign citizen to join them on their journey and stay in Russia. Obtaining such an invitation through the Ministry of Internal Affairs can be complicated and require specific knowledge and skills. In this case, professionals from Visa-Russian.ru can assist in preparing the necessary documents for visa invitations for accompanying family members.
In What Cases Can a Foreigner Obtain an Invitation and Visa as an Accompanying Family Member?
The list of travel purposes used when issuing visas to foreign citizens is defined in Order No. 23235 of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, dated December 21, 2020. This order states that a visa of the category «Accompanying Family Member» can be issued in the following cases:
- For family members of a highly qualified foreign specialist (HQS) entering on a work visa;
- For family members of a foreign student entering on a study visa;
- For family members of a foreigner entering on a business visa, but only if they are a representative or employee of a foreign company that has concluded an investment agreement with a resident of an advanced special economic development zone in the Far Eastern Federal District or with a resident of the Free Port of Vladivostok;
- For family members of foreign diplomats and those entering on service visas, as well as media workers.
Thus, the most common case of issuing an invitation and visa for an accompanying family member is for immediate relatives of highly qualified specialists (HQS).
Cost of Document Preparation for an HQS Accompanying Family Member Invitation
Assistance for legal entities in preparing and submitting documents for an HQS accompanying family member invitation.
| Processing Time | Cost | |
| Invitation for Accompanying Family Members |
* Additionally, a state fee for a work invitation permit of
Visa-Russian.ru provides services only to legal entities registered in Moscow, St. Petersburg, the Moscow, and Leningrad regions.
Procedure and Required Documents for Obtaining an HQS Accompanying Family Member Invitation
To obtain an invitation for a visa for accompanying family members through the Ministry of Internal Affairs, a specific set of documents must be provided, and the relevant forms must be completed. This process can be time-consuming and requires attention to detail. However, by contacting Visa-Russian.ru, you can be assured that everything will be done professionally and on time.
Family members of a highly qualified specialist include their spouse, children (including adopted children), spouses of children, parents (including adoptive parents), spouses of parents, grandparents, and grandchildren.
To apply for an invitation for a visa for accompanying family members through the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the following set of documents must be submitted. Below is a list of the main documents required for the invitation application:
- A copy of the first page of the foreign citizen’s passport, valid for at least 1.5 years beyond the expiration of the requested visa;
- Supporting documents — a copy of the HQS work permit and a copy of the valid visa (if the HQS is already in Russia and has received the documents), or a copy of the petition for HQS employment with a receipt stamp (if the invitation is issued before the HQS enters Russia);
- A copy of the HQS employment contract;
- Documents confirming kinship (copies of birth or marriage certificates, etc.), translated into Russian and properly legalized;
- Proof of payment of the state fee for issuing a work invitation to a foreign citizen or stateless person – 960 RUB (we provide the payment details).
All other necessary forms, including the invitation application, guarantee letters, powers of attorney, and other documents, will be prepared by our specialists and sent to you via email for signature.
Once the properly issued invitation is received, the relative of the foreign specialist will be able to apply for a visa at the Russian Consulate in their country. The list of other visa documents, processing times, and application procedures should be checked on the website of the selected consular institution.
It is important to note that foreign citizens accompanying an HQS also receive additional benefits:
- Exemption from migration registration for up to three months from the date of crossing the border.
- The ability to work or study independently in Russia. However, visas for family members cannot exceed the validity period of the HQS visa they are accompanying.
- The opportunity to obtain a residence permit in Russia without the need for a temporary residence permit. This document remains valid as long as the primary family member retains their highly qualified specialist status.
- Provision of a compulsory medical insurance (OMS) policy, which is arranged by the HQS employer.
If you have any questions or difficulties in obtaining an invitation for an HQS accompanying family member, Visa-Russian.ru can help you gather all necessary documents and prepare the invitation application. Our specialists have experience with various types of visas and are familiar with the intricacies of the document submission process.
Remember, properly prepared documents are the key to successfully obtaining an invitation for a visa for an accompanying family member. Seek professional assistance to avoid unpleasant surprises and expedite the process of obtaining the necessary document.
