Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Moscow

What is special or unique about your city?

This former capital of communism is now the second most expensive city in the world. It is the home of some of the world's most beautiful architecture, as well as the seat of Russian legislation. It is an excellent barometer for the changes that have been sweeping through Russia since the collapse of communism. It is home to some of the most iconic sites in all of Russia, including Red Square, the Kremlin and the Moscow river. It has an extensive Metro system with some of the most beautiful stations in the world. It is a place of extreme contrasts, but a truly fascinating city.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Most people find it to be both overwhelming and intriguing, with ancient churches, ornate palaces and ultramodern architecture all amalgamating into an incredibly diverse, exciting city. Many initially comment that it makes them feel small.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Most people stop feeling quite so overwhelmed after a time; they discover that Moscow is a city with several centers, each like a unique city unto itself. This makes the city feel less massive.

What is the local language?

Russian

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

It is certainly possible to get by without learning the language, though knowledge of some basic Russian and the Cyrillic alphabet is certainly an advantage for getting around.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Russians can be quite superstitious, and you should respect that. For example, don’t whistle in front of other people; according to superstition, doing so brings bad luck and means that person will have no money!

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Russian winter is long ( 6 months) and can be really cold. People stay at home a lot and don’t socialize that much. Summers are hot and dry; during this time, the locals go out of the city to their “datcha’s” (summerhouses) and the city is quiet.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Russians can come across as quite distant and closed when you first meet them. They are proud by nature and a little cautious to things that are new and strange to them. But, don't let that deter you--once you've gotten to know them, you will find that they are very generous and hospitable and will do anything for you to make you feel welcome!

Useful Links

The Moscow Times www.themoscowtimes.com A site on life in Russia www.lifestyle.ru

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

You can obtain a work permit for the duration of your visa (maximum one year, renewable) . After 5 years you can apply for Russian citizenship, but it’s a long, complicated process.

What kinds of visas are available?

Tourist Visa, single/double entry: These are for people staying only a short time who do not plan to work while in Moscow. Business Visa, single/double entry + multiple entry: These are for people relocating to the area for business purposes.

What is required to obtain these visas?

Tourist Visa, single/double entry: passport copy and dates of stay Business Visa, single/double entry: passport copy and information about company Business Visa multiple entry: passport copy and information about company* * The documentation needed for the application in the origin country differs per country. Contact your local Embassy for more details.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Permitted yes, but likelihood of finding employment depends on the field they wish to enter.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

Passport and registration of visa; you may also require a special ID to enter your office building, though that depends on your company. You can register your visa at a local office; your landlord will inform you where to go. Be sure to bring your home address and rental contract with you.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

In order to work in Moscow, you will require a work permit. Application for one will take approximately 5 months. You can apply at one of five local agencies; ask Crown Moscow for more details.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

Apart from the regular restrictions on importing, don’t bring plants.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

You must register your visa within 72 hours of arrival. Also, keep your Passport inclusive registration with you at all times.

Useful Links

European Business Club in Moscow www.ebc.ru American Chamber of Commerce www.amcham.ru Visa Support Online www.visa.ru

 

What is the local currency?

Rubles, which can then be divided into Kopecks.

What denominations does it come in?

Notes come in denominations of 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 Rubles. Coins come in 1, 2 and 5 Rubles; Kopecks come in 1, 5, 10 and 50 coins.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Banks or exchange offices are the best places to go for this.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

In 95 percent of cases, you’ll have to pay for items like groceries in cash. Credit cards and Traveller’s cheques are only accepted by large stores and supermarkets.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Yes, in most hotels, established shops and restaurants you can use credit cards. Smaller stores, however, may not accept them, so it's always a good idea to carry a little cash.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Most people opt to pay their bills in cash, though there is a small percentage who prefer to transfer the money from their credit cards or via internet payments.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

Requirements vary by bank, but you can generally expect that proof of residency by means of rental contract or registration will be required.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

Not all languages will be easy to find, but French, German and English should be no problem

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

Be aware that there are certain banks that will not open personal accounts, only corporate accounts.

What are typical banking hours?

11am to 6pm Monday through Friday. Sberbank is also open on Saturday morning.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

Yes

Is there any other money information that might help me?

You can change both US Dollars and Euros everywhere, anytime.

Useful Links

RBC Business Newswire (in Russian) www.rbc.ru

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Housing in Moscow is at a premium, and as such is both difficult to find and very expensive. Families with children generally opt to live in compounds outside of the city center, while those without children seem to prefer living within city limits.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

The areas of Arbat, Chistye Prudy, Patriarchy Prudy, Tverskaya Area and Kropotkinskaya are all very popular with expatriates. They are centrally located and close to shopping centers, restaurants, bars and cultural centers. These areas also have the highest number of newly renovated "European-style" apartments.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Expats generally opt to rent their homes.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

Yes, it depends on the owner but 10 to 20 percent of the rent is average, paid up front.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Water and gas are generally included in the price of rent; sometimes, electricity is as well, but that may also be an additional cost, depending on the owner.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

It is recommended that you live in a housing area with either a coded security system or a security gurad. Additionally, it is safer to live in apartments above the ground floor.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

Current is 220 Volts, 50 Hz. The plug shape is similar to the standard European plug, but slightly thinner. You can, however, purchase an adapter to make it fit.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

Moscow is second most expensive city in the world and the rents for expatriate housing are going up all the time. Please keep this in mind when you move to this city.

Useful Links

Official Guide of the Moscow Government www.moscow-guide.ru The Russian Journal News Center www.russiajournal.ru

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Most parents opt to send their kids to one of Moscow's many International Schools.

What are some examples of these schools?

Anglo American School - has great sport facilities and ties to the Embassies of Canada, United States and United Kingdom. British School - this school has seven campuses throughout Moscow, divided into primary and secondary schools. French Lycee - this school is moving to the Chistye Prudy area for the summer of 2003, but will be returning to its primary campus in the autumn. German School - this school is situated in the German Village ( in German: Wohngebiet der Botschaft den Bundesrepublik Deutschland) close to the German Embassy and German companies. It also has its own kindergarten

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Not really, but some local schools are better than others.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Yes, but they are expensive.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

By parents or school bus. Also, Crown Moscow will soon be offering a Crown Kids' bus for all the children who attend the French School. We can also offer this service to other clients. We provide the bus, with driver supervisor that speaks the language of the kids and takes care of them. Contact Crown Moscow for further details.

When does the typical school year start and end?

Classes generally begin in September and end in May.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

The local schools are of a very high standard.

Useful Links

The Anglo-American school of Russia www.aas.ru British International School www.bischool-mos.com German School www.dasan.de/ds_moskau/dateien/ Email the French Lycee lyceefrancaisdemoscou@edufrance.com

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.