Essential info for Russia

Time: There are 11 time zones in Russia, ranging from GMT +2 in the east to GMT +12 in the west; +1 from the end of March to the end of September. Moscow and St Petersburg are GMT +3 (GMT +4 in summer).

 

Electricity: 220 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are used in Russia.

 

Language: Russian is the official language but English, French and German are sometimes spoken.

 

Safety Information: Expats should not go to Chechnya, Dagestan or Ingushetia due to the security situation in the North Caucasus. North Ossetia, Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachai-Cherkessia are also not particularly safe. Domestic terrorism and hostage-taking are serious threats throughout Russia, especially in Moscow and North Caucasus. Pick-pocketing and street crime are also common in the larger cities. Expats should ask to see official ID from police officers, and avoid all political protests and demonstrations.

 

Local Customs: It is illegal to photograph anything related to the military, strategic sites or airports. Expats should be aware that the Russian people consider it rude to refuse alcohol, food and gifts. It is advisable for women to wear skirts and a headscarf when entering a Russian Orthodox church. Foreigners are legally required to carry passports for identification; copies are not adequate.

 

Business: For the most part, the business etiquette in Russia is similar to that of most Western countries. It is important for expats to dress formally, use a firm handshake and direct eye contact when meeting people, and to developing a good network of resident associates. Business cards are exchanged and expats should have these printed with English and Russian on alternate sides. The usual business hours are 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

 

Communications: The international access code for Russia is +7, and the 0 on the relevant area code must be included. For calls out of Russia, dial 8 (wait for a changed tone) followed by 10 and then the relevant country code (e.g. 8-10-44 for the United Kingdom). There are city and area codes in use (e.g. 495 for Moscow; 812 for St. Petersburg). Public phones and phone cards (available at newsagents and post offices) can be used for both local and international calls. Mobile phones work in most areas, and local operators use GSM 900/1800 networks. Internet cafés and personal broadband are available in larger towns and cities throughout Russia.

 

Emergencies: The number for emergency assistance is 112

 

Climate: Russia has a predominantly continental climate, although this becomes arctic in the north. The weather gets more severe the further east you go, with eastern Siberia experiencing the worst winters. There is snowfall in northern Russia for much of the year, but the south has warm summers with a high rainfall and colder, snowy winters. The weather in spring and autumn is generally mild and fairly dry.