Minus One Problem: Regulations Concerning International Students’ Stay in Russia Changed

16:17, January 31, 2018

International students can now extend their visas without leaving the Russian Federation

International students of Ural Federal University and other Russian universities have been given the possibility to extend the period of their temporary stay in the country until the end of their studies. Corresponding amendments were made to the federal law "On the Legal Status of Foreign Citizens in the Russian Federation".

"The changes concern all international students, including those who are studying at our Russian Language School", says Aslan Kagiev, chairman of the university’s Student Union. "Foreign students transferred to UrFU from other universities will also be able to stay in Ekaterinburg until the end of their studies."

The law was signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin in the end of last year.

“We regard the changes in the legislation as positive”, notes UrFU Rector Victor Koksharov. “Students from 86 countries of the world are studying at the Ural Federal University. We offer 19 Master's programs and 19 postgraduate programs in English in such areas as biology, biotechnology, philosophy, sports, business and commerce, management, innovation, tourism, linguistics, history, information systems and technology, etc. The University provides international students with modern infrastructure: new dormitories, 12 sports complexes, library, medical station. Mentors and representatives of student organizations help them easily adapt to university life”

Previously, according to Russian law, visas were only given to international students for the period of study at the preparatory department (Russian Language School course lasting for one year). To extend the visa and continue studying on a Bachelor’s or Master’s program, foreign citizens had to return to their country and again apply for a visa.