POEA implements DFA guidelines on Russian work permit

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has began implementing the guidelines issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs on obtaining legal documents for employment in Russia.

POEA Administrator Carlos Cao Jr. has said that the DFA advises Filipinos who wish to work in Russia to obtain work visas instead of commercial visas. Commercial visas are valid only for three months and are not renewable. Holders of lapsed commercial visas would have to leave Russia and apply for work visas.

A Filipino entering Russia for work would need an invitation from the prospective employer or another company which was able to obtain visa quota. The invitation should be approved by the Russian Federal Migration Services (FMS). A Russian working visa issued for the first time is valid for three months. It may be renewed for unlimited number of times with a validity of one year per renewal.

The working visa may be issued within 20 working days from the time of application. The employers are responsible for the legality of the stay of their employees in Russia. Thus, they should ensure that their employees possess the proper and valid working visas and working permits. In cases where their Filipino employees are holding either
commercial visas or expired working visas, the employers are responsible for the legalization of their stay in Russia.

The DFA also advises Filipino workers against using the services of fake travel agents and other unauthorized recruiters in obtaining their Russian work permits. The cost for both the invitation and the visa is only $300 but most travel agencies or middlemen charge from $1,000 to $3,000.

For visa renewal, the OFWs do not have to go to agencies or middlemen.
They themselves or the employers may go directly to the FMS branch where the Filipino is registered and apply for renewal. The requirements are an employment contract and a statement asking for visa renewal signed by the employee. ###