This guide was written prior to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Travel to Russia is currently not advisable due to the area's volatile political situation.
There’s no one-size-fits-all rule for settling into expat life in a new country, but here are a few helpful articles and personal stories that may help make your move a little easier.
Eva is an expat originally from Indonesia. She has been living in Moscow for a few years after having previously lived as an expat in Spain. She has adapted to Russian life and culture and loves how she feels safe walking around the city. Eva encourages expats to get out and explore Russia, both… Read more
Yulia Safutdinova is originally from Russia but considers herself a world citizen at heart. She is currently living in Bali, Indonesia and has had expat experience as a digital nomad elsewhere, including Thailand. She loves the environment and people in Bali but has much to say about life and… Read more
Northern Lad is a British expat who moved to Moscow in September 2012 for a job. He enjoys life in the city, which he says is full of pretty ladies, has plenty of sights to see and is generally a safe place to be.
Read more about expat life in Russia in the Expat Arrivals Russia country guide or… Read more
Rob MacDonald is from New Jersey, where he taught school for many years, then sold insurance, and finally owned an agency until leaving for Russia in 2000. After graduating from Duke University in 1964, he served as a sailor in the US Navy. He lives in St Petersburg but spends May to September at a… Read more
Amanda Surbey lived in Moscow with her family. Originally from Ohio, Amanda was bitten by the travel bug when she spent a summer as an exchange student in Australia. She has lived in Russia, Taiwan, Florida, Buenos Aires and Bratislava. She plans on being in Russian until she gets… Read more
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
If you’re thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
