Facts checked against official sources on 28 October 2026. Where something is not confirmed, we say so. Rules change — confirm with your university or the authority linked in each section.
Deadline: 7 working days
The host files the notification of arrival within 7 working days (109-FZ). Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan — 30 days; Belarus is exempt for 90 days; Tajikistan — 15 days.
Official sources: Federal Law 109-FZ · St Petersburg Government · registration · Embassy of Belarus · registration
Who registers you: dorm or flat
Dormitory: the host is the university — hand your documents to the international office. Flat: the host is a Russian citizen owner, a Russian citizen or foreigner with a residence permit registered in the flat, or an organisation. Registration by power of attorney is not allowed.
Official sources: Garant · who can register a foreigner · Gosuslugi · migration registration
Online, at the MFC or MVD — and the 500 ₽ fee
On Gosuslugi the host can file, and if the owner is a Russian citizen the foreigner can file too — no MFC visit needed. The alternative is the MFC or MVD. Registration is now paid: a 500 ₽ state fee (Tax Code art. 333.28, introduced by 121-FZ of 23 May 2025).
Official sources: Gosuslugi · migration registration · Tax Code, art. 333.28 (state fees)
The slip you keep
You keep the tear-off part of the notification-of-arrival form (approved by the MVD). In practice, carry it with your passport and migration card.
Official sources: ConsultantPlus · notification form (MVD)
Extending registration
Students extend through the university, based on the study contract and the extended visa. Apply early: IRNITU, for example, requires it no later than 30 days before registration ends. Workers extend under their employment contract: EAEU citizens up to 1 year.
Official sources: HSE St Petersburg · registration · IRNITU · registration rules · St Petersburg Government · registration
Fines
For the foreigner (Administrative Code art. 18.8 parts 1 and 3): 2,000–5,000 ₽ across Russia, 5,000–7,000 ₽ in Moscow, St Petersburg and their regions, with possible expulsion. From 3 November 2026: 4,000–7,000 ₽ and 7,000–9,000 ₽ (294-FZ). For the owner from 3 November 2026: 4,000–6,000 ₽ per person. Since 5 February 2025 people staying illegally are added to the MVD register of controlled persons with restricted rights. Check the amounts against the text of 294-FZ.
Official sources: Ministry of Transport · migration news
Common questions from foreign students
Does registration cost anything?
Yes, a 500 ₽ state fee.
Can I file it myself online?
Yes, on Gosuslugi, if the owner of the flat is a Russian citizen.
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Written by Vlad Lario
Russian in Lisbon. I read both sides and write down what differs.
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